Chemistry

Study in the discipline of Chemistry is offered by the School of Chemistry in the Faculty of Science. Units of study in this major are available at standard and advanced level.

Mathematics prerequisites and Mathematics Learning Support

In 2024, some mathematics prerequisites  for undergraduate students commencing in Semester 1 2025 were removed.

It has been identified that this curriculum component (Program, Major or Minor) has been affected. To ensure success, make sure you are aware of the required level of mathematics (assumed knowledge) for this curriculum component. Visit the mathematics learning support webpage, to understand your pathway to success, including the sequence of units you should complete and the support services available.

About the major

A major in Chemistry will equip you with the knowledge and understanding of molecules and processes that underpin many of the most important aspects of the natural world and new technologies. Through a detailed explanation of chemical structure and change you will be guided through advanced concepts in areas such as photosynthesis, the molecules of life, green energy technologies, new materials and the molecular underpinnings of nanotechnology.

1000-level units of study aim to provide students with an understanding of the molecular basis of the physical properties of materials, the reasons chemical reactions occur and the energy changes involved. Units are offered at different levels depending on whether chemistry was studied at the HSC level or equivalent and the results obtained.

2000-level core unit Molecular Stability & Reactivity provides the mainstream chemistry essential for students planning to major in chemistry and other chemical-related sciences. Selective units Sustainable Chemical Manufacture, Chemistry of Biological Molecules and Chemical Physics allow students to tailor their Chemistry major to fit their interests and career goals. Elective units in Sustainable Chemical Manufacture, Chemistry of Biological Molecules and Chemical Physics with a Workshop in place of a Laboratory class are also available.

3000-level units allow students to specialise in particular areas of chemistry and cover such areas as: synthetic chemistry; materials chemistry; environmental and analytical chemistry; chemical biology; molecular self-assembly; and computational chemistry. Through the chemistry interdisciplinary project unit, students learn to work collaboratively and apply their disciplinary knowledge to tackling real-world problems.

Requirements for completion

The Chemistry major and minor requirements are listed in the Chemistry unit of study table.

Contact and further information

W School of Chemistry
E chemistry.enquiries@sydney.edu.au
T +61 2 9351 4504

Address:
School of Chemistry
Chemistry Building F11
University of Sydney NSW 2006