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Inside Chemistry
VCU College of Humanities and Sciences
Inside Chemistry is part of a series of brochures relating VCU majors to occupational fields. The information in this pamphlet can help you in planning your education and career.
Chemistry is a major branch of the physical sciences and involves the study of the properties, composition, changes, and uses of matter. It is a central component in attempts to feed, house, and clothe the world's growing population, to find and use new energy sources, to conquer disease, and to improve the environment.
Through the general education requirements, taken in the freshman and sophomore years, students typically develop the following skills:
- curiosity and intellectual ability to ask the right questions - to think critically.
- interpersonal skills to understand and influence others.
- ability to communicate, in writing and orally, along with the ability to analyze and utilize information.
- a breadth of background from the sciences, mathematics, social sciences, and humanities.
- a sense of ethics that will not be compromised by immediate personal gain or prejudice.
Students typically gain the following skills through the required coursework in chemistry:
- advanced mathematical skills.
- ability to analyze and interpret scientific data.
- strong laboratory skills.
- proficiency in the use of scientific equipment.
- ability to conduct and explain scientific research.
Sample courses chemistry majors take include the following:
- Organic Chemistry and Laboratory
- Multivariate Calculus
- Physical Chemistry and Laboratory
- Quantitative Analysis and Laboratory
- Atomic and Molecular Structure
- Inorganic Chemistry and Laboratory
- Instrumental Analysis
To become more marketable:
- Undertake a research project with a faculty member in a specific area of chemistry.
- Participate in, and take on leadership roles in, extracurricular activities, such as the American Chemical Society Student Affiliate Chapter.
- Enroll in the Cooperative Education program to gain valuable work experience.
- Arrange for an internship or part-time employment related to chemistry.
- Take electives related to your career goals (for example, business or biology) or minor in a supporting area such as physics, writing, or computer science.
Typical areas of employment for chemistry majors (with appropriate education and experience) include the following:
- Technical or Research Chemist
- Pharmaceutical or Scientific Instrument Sales Representative
- Technical Writer
- Occupational Safety and Health Inspector
- Quality Control Chemist
- Instrument Technician
- High School Chemistry Teacher
- Forensic Science
- Environmental Science
Many chemistry majors are interested in pursuing education beyond the bachelor's degree. Some pursue graduate study in chemistry in order to become college professors and research scientists. Others go into health science fields such as medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy. Students wishing to teach (grades K-12) pursue VCU's five-year teacher education program.
Further information is available at the Career Center (Commons, first floor) or through the division:Virginia Commonwealth University
College of Humanities and Sciences
Department of Chemistry
Oliver Hall, 1001 W. Main St., Room 3040
PO Box 842006
Richmond VA 23284-2006(804) 828-1298
Fax: (804) 828-8599
This brochure is published by the VCU Career Development Council in cooperation
with academic departments.
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