Chemist (WA)

Education and Training:

To become a chemist you usually have to complete a science or applied science degree at university with a major in chemistry. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your WACE at Stages 2 and 3. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, psychology and geography are normally required. Most universities in Australia offer degrees in science or applied science with a major in chemistry. Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Additional Information:

Students and graduates of a chemistry-related program may be eligible for membership of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute.

For research and teaching positions, postgraduate qualifications may be required. Geochemists require tertiary training in earth science as well as in chemistry.

Related Courses:

While the following courses are related to this occupation, they may not necessarily lead directly to employment, nor provide the most direct pathway to the occupation. Courses which provide preliminary or informal training, as well as those which provide additional job skills following initial qualifications may also be listed.

*Course is offered by more than one institution. Click link for details.

Employment Opportunities:

Chemists are employed in a wide range of government, industrial and university laboratories. They may work in hospital laboratories or with medical and scientific research bodies, food processing firms and pharmaceutical manufacturers. They also find employment as consultants, technical specialists, patent officers and teachers.

Chemists may specialise in developing new products or supervising production. With experience, they may progress to management positions.