Chemistry
Mātai Matū
Qualifications
Overview
Chemistry deals with the composition, structure, and behaviour of atoms and molecules that make up all forms of matter.
Understanding the world at an atomic level is important to seeing how things are interconnected and work together.
- Apply your learning in the lab and research projects in diverse areas of chemistry — physical, biological, environmental, theoretical, and more.
- Study Chemistry as a minor within many bachelor’s degree options to add a scientific background to your other subjects.
Chemistry major
For the major in the Bachelor of Science, complete the following courses:
100-level
- CHEM111 Chemical Principles and Processes
- CHEM112 Structure and Reactivity in Chemistry and Biochemistry
CHEM114 Foundations of Chemistry is also required if you have not taken chemistry to Year 13 level.
200-level
- CHEM211 Molecules
- CHEM212 Chemical Reactivity
- CHEM242 Organic Chemistry
- CHEM251 Foundations of Materials Science and Nanotechnology
- CHEM281 Practical Chemistry
300-level
- CHEM381 Advanced Synthetic Techniques OR CHEM382 Energy, Environmental and Materials Chemistry Lab
- Three 300-level CHEM courses (excluding CHEM329 and CHEM330)
If you are intending to go onto postgraduate Chemistry studies you will need to complete at least one additional 300-level CHEM course.
Note that you are not able to complete a double major with Medicinal Chemistry.
If you are currently enrolled in the Chemistry major you can change to the Medicinal Chemistry major by taking CHEM246 Introduction to Medicinal Chemistry and meeting the 300-level majoring requirements for Medicinal Chemistry.
Chemistry minor
For the minor in the Bachelor of Arts, Commerce, Digital Screen, Health Sciences, Science, Social and Environmental Sustainability, Sport Coaching, or Youth and Community Leadership, complete the following courses:
There are new and exciting discoveries happening every day in the field of chemistry, and your studies will prepare you to solve global challenges like energy, food supply, health, and environmental change.
Career pathways could include:
- Toxicology and forensics
- Product development
- Pharmaceuticals
- Food science.
Find out more about what you can do with a degree in Chemistry.
Contact us
Te Kura Matū | School of Physical and Chemical Sciences
Phone +64 3 369 3100
Email physical-chemical-sciences@canterbury.ac.nz
Location
Levels 3 and 4, Beatrice Tinsley building – see campus maps
Postal address
Te Kaupeka Pūtaiao | Faculty of Science
Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury
Private Bag 4800
Christchurch 8140
New Zealand
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