Careers
A chemistry major from the University of Melbourne prepares you for a range of exciting and rewarding careers.
Pathways to the future
A chemistry major from the University of Melbourne prepares you for a range of exciting and well-remunerated careers. Our recent graduates have found careers as research scientists, environmental scientists, drug designers, patent lawyers, entrepreneurs, corporate managers, policy analysts, editors, publishers, teachers, mining executives and teachers.
A chemistry major is a great background for employment in research, environmental regulation, teaching, commerce and industry. With nations around the world increasing their investment in science and technology, and with companies desperately seeking creative, well trained scientists, the demand for chemists is growing and career prospects are excellent.
While studying Chemistry you'll develop a broad range of general skills relating to time and project management, communication and presentation, problem solving, and computer/IT, which will outfit your for the career of your choice.
Find out more about why you should study Chemistry and Careers in Chemistry.
More information can also be found on the Faculty of Science website.
High graduate salaries
Gradstats, a yearly survey of recent graduates, show physical scientists/chemists are readily employed at higher salaries than many other graduates (except dentists, doctors and vets). Salary surveys have shown that Bachelor of Science or Doctoral graduates earn $15,000/$30,000 p.a. more than average wage earners. The demand for chemists will only strengthen into the future.
If you enjoy studying Chemistry, a science degree can give you lots of exciting career opportunities. Our chemistry graduates secure diverse and satisfying careers all over the world.
Career destinations
University of Melbourne Chemistry graduates have found careers as:
- Industrial Research Chemists
- Research and Development Scientists
- Environmental Scientists
- Synthetic Chemists
- Medicinal Chemists
- Analytical Chemists
- Climate Scientists
- Hazardous Waste Consultants
- Laboratory Managers
- Quality Assurance Managers
- Secondary School Teachers
- Production Technologists
- Mass Spectrometrists
- Patent Attorneys
- Policy Advisors
- Scientific Editors