Chemistry Sciences

<h2 id="section---AreChemistrySciencesForMe">Are Chemistry Sciences for Me?</h2> <h3 id="section---CareerOverview">Career Overview</h3> <p>If you're good with math and science and would like to work in a laboratory setting, then you might want to consider a career in the chemistry sciences. Areas of specialization include <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/directory/category/Physical_Science/Chemistry_Sciences/Inorganic_Chemistry.html">inorganic chemistry</a>, <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/directory/category/Physical_Science/Chemistry_Sciences/Organic_Chemistry.html">organic chemistry</a> and <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/directory/category/Biological_Sciences/Biochemistry,_Molecular_Biology_and_Biophysics/Biochemistry.html">biochemistry</a>. In general, chemists analyze the internal structure and composition of substances, and find ways to manipulate them, such as combining two elements into a new type of substance. Due to the different fields that involve the chemistry sciences, including medicine and biology, you may choose to focus your career on a particular specialty, such as chemical or food production, pharmaceuticals, healthcare or the environment; a position in education might also be an option. </p> <h3 id="section---EmploymentAndSalaryInformation">Employment and Salary Information</h3> <p>According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment opportunities for chemists were expected to increase by a slower-than-average rate nationwide from 2012-2022, while an average growth in jobs was projected for chemical technicians. However, biochemists and biophysicists can look forward to a faster-than-average increase in opportunities of 19% during the same period. Competition for jobs is expected to be strong and may be dependent upon federal funding. Graduates of a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program who have an understanding of multiple areas, postdoctoral experience and published research may have an easier time obtaining a job as a biochemist or chemist. </p> <p>As reported by the BLS in May 2013, <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/Biochemistry_5_Steps_to_Becoming_a_Biochemist_in_5_Steps.html">biochemists</a> had an average annual income of $91,640, while <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/Chemist_Career_Summary_Occupational_Outlook_and_Education_Requirements.html">chemists</a> earned an average of $77,740 a year. In the same month, the average annual salary for <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/How_Can_I_Become_a_Chemistry_Professor.html">chemistry professors</a> was $83,330, while chemical technicians earned $46,590 (<i>www.bls.gov</i>). </p> <h2 id="section---HowCanIWorkInChemistrySciences">How Can I Work in Chemistry Sciences?</h2> <h3 id="section---EducationalOptionsAndRequirements">Educational Options and Requirements</h3> <p>A postsecondary education is essential for pursuing a <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/What_are_Popular_Chemistry_Professions.html">career in chemistry</a>. For example, if you wish to become a <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/Chemical_Technician_Education_and_Training_FAQs.html">chemical lab technician</a>, you may want to consider completing a certificate or an associate's degree in chemical technical training, chemical technology or chemical processes. If you hope to become a chemist, you might want to consider a <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/Chemistry_Degrees_Online_Program_FAQs.html">degree in chemistry</a> or <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/Biochemistry_Degrees_Online_Program_FAQs.html">biochemistry</a>. </p> <p>A bachelor's degree program in chemistry may qualify you for entry-level jobs at production facilities, research groups and laboratories. It could also provide you with the academic background you need to become a <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/High_School_Chemistry_Teacher_Education_and_Career_FAQs.html">high school chemistry teacher</a>, as long as you fulfill any additional certification, course or student teaching requirements. </p> <p>A graduate program may open the door to a position as a <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/Research_Chemist_Jobs_Your_Career_and_Salary_Questions_Answered.html">research chemist</a> in either the private or public sector; a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Chemistry will most likely be required to teach at the college or university level.</p>