Career Options in Chemistry

A degree in chemistry can prepare a student for many careers. Students with a B.A. or B.S in chemistry can enter directly into industrial jobs as a laboratory chemist, or technician. Students are also prepared to further their education in M.S. or Ph.D. programs.

Many students use the chemistry degree to prepare themselves for further education in health related careers. The overlap between the chemistry degree and the pre-vet, pre-med or other pre-health science careers, allow students to be well prepared for professional health care careers.

Chemistry is a wide open field, which allows students to pursue many different fields of study. The American Chemical Society has 33 divisions which offer a variety of career options.

In addition a degree in chemistry can prepare students for further careers in engineering, environmental science, biochemistry, food technology, material science or other related fields.

Students interested in management at industrial plants may desire to major in chemistry and a business degree.

Students wishing to pursue government positions relating to chemical regulation may wish to double major in chemistry and political science.

A combination of the pre-law track with a degree in chemistry would prepare a student to attend law school, with careers in law, patent review, or governmental oversight.

Art and chemistry can be combined in a variety of ways. Many chemists pursue artistic endeavors outside of the laboratory, including artistic and scientific glassblowing.

More information about careers in chemistry can be found at the ACS website under What Chemists Do.