Bachelor of Science (Chemistry)

Course summary

Chemistry is the central science that enables us to understand our world at the molecular level. The ability to understand the relationship between structure and function of molecules is critical to understanding the processes of life, of the natural world and of the industrial world.

The Bachelor of Science major in Chemistry will give you the knowledge and skills to apply chemistry across the full range of technically-based disciplines including physics, molecular biology, life sciences, geochemistry, environmental science, engineering, and health sciences. These skills include both analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as expertise in using sophisticated laboratory instrumentation, all of which are highly valued by employers in all sectors of the economy.

Course Learning Outcomes

Course Learning Outcomes are statements of learning achievement that are expressed in terms of what the learner is expected to know, understand and be able to do upon completion of a course. Students graduating from this course will be able to demonstrate:

• Demonstrate critical thinking and judgement in relation to concepts, perspectives and recent developments in medicinal chemistry.
• Consolidate and synthesise knowledge of research principles and methods pertinent to medicinal chemistry.
• Investigate, analyse and synthesise information, problems and theories associated with medicinal chemistry.
• Design and evaluate hypotheses and methodologies by the performance of experiments.
• Plan, execute and communicate the results of substantial research-based initiatives in a reflective and ethical way for academic and professional practice.
• Demonstrate critical thinking, problem solving and reflection.
• Justify, interpret and communicate hypotheses, methodologies and conclusions.

Course Structure

To qualify for an award of the degree, the Bachelor of Science (Chemistry), a candidate must successfully complete at least 144 credit points in accordance with the table below.

Year 1

Autumn

Select one of the following two subjects: Note: Students who have achieved a mark of 65% or more in NSW HSC Chemistry or equivalent must select CHEM101. All other students must select CHEM104.

Spring

Select ONE of the following two subjects:

Summer

Only for students who have completed CHEM104 and CHEM105.

Total for major at Year 1: 12 credit points

• Note: Students should meet the minimum mathematics requirement before enrolling in CHEM213 - Molecular Structure, Reactivity and Change and/or CHEM214 - Analytical and Environmental Chemistry II

Year 2

Total for major at Year 2: 24 credit points

Year 3

At least FOUR subjects from the following list:

Plus one subject in Autumn session from the chosen major/minor

Total for major at Year 3: 24 credit points Sub-total for major: 60 credit points Plus additional subjects, chosen from the Science Schedule: 30 credit points Total for major: 90 credit points Plus elective subjects, chosen from the Science or General Schedules: 54 credit points Degree Total: 144 credit points

The School offers a third-year research subject, CHEM341, to students with a good academic record (usually a credit average or better) who wish to gain experience in research. Entry into this subject is by permission of the Head of School.

Why choose this course

Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) skills in Australia is becoming a fast-growing area creating new and increased job prospects. Professional, Scientific and Technical Services is projected to increase by 10.2% from 2018 to 2023 reflecting ongoing strength in demand for the services of qualified and highly educated workers. Source: Employment Projections

We have recognised strengths and internationally competitive research programmes in Protein Chemistry, Drug Design and Discovery, Organic Chemistry, Biological Mass Spectrometry and Atmospheric Science.

We are well equipped, with dedicated research laboratories and instruments for a diverse range of analytical methods within the biological, chemical and earth and environmental sciences. In addition, we provide ready access to computing facilities and four-wheel drive vehicles for fieldwork.

Admission

A range of admission options is available for students of all ages and academic backgrounds. The procedures governing admission are defined in UOW's Admissions Procedures and the UOW College Admissions policy.

For any specific advice or questions regarding an application, please contact the Future Students Team.

Entry Requirements

A recognised Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry or medicinal chemistry, including at least 24cp (or equivalent) of third-year chemistry and at least second-year biology and biochemistry.

English Requirements for international students

The following level of English is required to gain admission to this programme:

IELTS Academic

• Overall Score: 6.5
• Reading: 6.0
• Writing: 6.0
• Listening: 6.0
• Speaking: 6.0

TOEFL (Internet-based)

• Overall Score: 86
• Reading: 18
• Writing: 18
• Listening: 17
• Speaking: 17

UOW College: English for Tertiary Studies: Credit (weighted average mark of 65 overall and minimum 50 in Academic Reading and Writing)

Other qualifications may also be considered. Full details can be found on our English Language Requirements website.

UOW is young, dynamic, and innovative, and has become a benchmark for Australia’s new generation of universities. The quality of our teaching and research features prominently in national and international rankings, and we’re proud to be among the top one percent of universities in the world.

Harnessing our expertise and strength to create a positive impact in our local and global communities is at the forefront of everything we do and shapes our University’s purpose for the years to come.