Why Bachelor of Science (Honours)?
Chemistry shapes the world from the inside out – chemistry professionals don’t just study molecules, they use them to make real-world changes.
The Bachelor of Science (Honours) majoring in Chemistry takes your scientific knowledge further and opens more doors after graduation. You’ll explore how molecules work and how to change their structure to solve real-world problems, like designing cleaner energy sources or safer medicines.
Build advanced skills in lab techniques, research, problem-solving and communication, making you highly competitive for careers in science, industry or government.
Graduate with the skills and knowledge that could help design safer materials, improve public health, or develop new ways to protect our environment.
Overview
Our Bachelor of Science (Honours) majoring in Chemistry builds advanced expertise in chemical science and research. You'll explore key areas such as organic, inorganic, physical, analytical and medicinal chemistry while developing skills in scientific thinking, communication and ethics.
In your final year, you'll complete an original research project under the supervision of leading academics, gaining hands-on experience that prepares you for careers in research, industry or further study.
With access to industry-grade labs and the option to broaden your knowledge through electives or a second major, you’ll graduate with both depth and versatility – ready to take on complex challenges in science and beyond.
Key features
Gain advanced knowledge across organic, inorganic, physical, analytical and medicinal chemistry.- Undertake an original research project guided by expert chemists.
- Learn to communicate complex scientific ideas with impact.
- Access world-class labs and industry-standard equipment.
- Develop skills valued across research, industry and government sectors.
- Boost your career or postgraduate study prospects with an accredited qualification.
What you'll learn
The Bachelor of Science (Honours) majoring in Chemistry at Adelaide University gives you a deep understanding of chemical science and strong skills in analysis, research and communication. In your first three years, you’ll study the key branches of chemistry – including organic, inorganic, physical, analytical and medicinal – while building your broader scientific knowledge in areas such as maths, biology and physics.
You’ll develop practical skills through laboratory classes, problem-solving activities and group projects. Along the way, you’ll gain valuable experience in planning experiments, analysing results and communicating your findings.
In your final year, you’ll complete advanced chemistry courses and undertake an independent research project. This major feature of the honours program allows you to investigate a topic of interest under academic supervision and develop professional research skills that are in demand across many industries.
You’ll graduate with a strong set of transferable skills and a competitive edge for employment or postgraduate study, including a potential pathway to a PhD.
Majors
The Bachelor of Science (Honours) is also available with majors in the following:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Environmental and Geospatial Science
- Physics and Geophysics
- Pure and Applied Chemistry
- Soil Science
- Space Science and Astrophysics
- Theoretical Physics.
What courses you'll study
Complete 192 units comprising:
- 42 to 54 units for Core courses, and
- 84 to 144 units for Majors, and
- At least 6 units from Work integrated learning, and
- 0 to 48 units for Electives
Complete 42 to 54 units comprising:
- 6 to 12 units for all Program core, and
- 12 to 18 units from Common Core, and
- 6 to 30 units from Core Selective
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Science of People, Society and the Future Planet
|
Course code
SCIE1001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Data Skills for Scientists
|
Course code
STAT1000
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
An Ethically Rich Life
|
Course code
COREX001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Fact or Fiction: Data for Everyone
|
Course code
COREX002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Igniting Change: Ideas to Action
|
Course code
COREX003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Proppa Ways, Future Practice
|
Course code
COREX004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Responsible AI: Bridging Ethics, Education and Industry
|
Course code
COREX005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Ways of Being, Ways of Seeing
|
Course code
COREX006
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Biology 1A: Molecules, Genes and Cells
|
Course code
BIOL1003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Biology 1B: Evolution and Diversity of Organisms
|
Course code
BIOL1004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Foundations in Chemistry
|
Course code
CHEM1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Chemistry 1A
|
Course code
CHEM1002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Chemistry 1B
|
Course code
CHEM1003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Planet Earth
|
Course code
EART1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Earth, Climate and Life Systems
|
Course code
EART1012
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Foundations in Mathematics
|
Course code
MATH1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Calculus 1
|
Course code
MATH1004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Calculus 2
|
Course code
MATH1005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Foundations in Physics
|
Course code
PHYS1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Physics 1A
|
Course code
PHYS1001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Physics 1B
|
Course code
PHYS1002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Differential Equations
|
Course code
MATHX202
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Linear Algebra
|
Course code
MATHX104
|
Units
6
|
Notes
Program core - Students in the following Majors will not enrol in STAT1000 Data Skills for Scientists:
Computational Physics, Experimental Physics, Nuclear and Radiation Physics, Physics and Geophysics, Space Science and Astrophysics, Theoretical Physics
Complete 18 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Chemistry 1B
|
Course code
CHEM1003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Organic Chemistry 2
|
Course code
CHEM2001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Physical and Inorganic Chemistry 2
|
Course code
CHEM2002
|
Units
6
|
Notes
The courses CHEM1002 Chemistry 1A and CHEM1003 Chemistry 1B require students to have passed certain SACE Stage 2 subjects, or equivalent subjects, to be eligible to enrol. Please see the course information webpages for prerequisite and/or assumed knowledge details. Foundational pathways are available to students without this background, which may increase the duration of the program beyond 3 years. Please contact the Science Program Director to discuss specific enrolment advice based on your previous study.
Complete at least 6 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Professional Skills in Animal Science
|
Course code
ANIM3005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Applications in Animal Behaviour
|
Course code
ANIM3900
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Molecular and Biomedical Science Practical 2
|
Course code
BIOL2900
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Practical 3
|
Course code
BIOL3007
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Microbiology and Immunology Practical 3
|
Course code
BIOL3012
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Genetics Practical 3A
|
Course code
BIOL3900
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Field Palaeontology 3
|
Course code
EART3002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Field Geoscience Program 3
|
Course code
EART3003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Optics and Photonics 3
|
Course code
PHYS3004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Computational Physics
|
Course code
PHYSX300
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Experimental Physics
|
Course code
PHYSX301
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Science Professional Placement
|
Course code
SCIE3900
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Science Professional Project
|
Course code
SCIE3901
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Genetics Practical 3B
|
Course code
BIOL2016
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Geophysics 3C: Seismic Processing and Interpretation
|
Course code
EART3004
|
Units
6
|
Notes
If studying ANACHSCIE - Analytical Chemistry then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying ANIBHSCIE - Animal Behaviour then complete ANIM3900 - Advanced Applications in Animal Behaviour
If studying BIOCHSCIE - Biochemistry then complete BIOL3007 - Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Practical 3
If studying CHEYHSCIE - Chemistry then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying ECOLHSCIE - Ecology then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying ENVGHSCIE - Environmental and Geospatial Science then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studyingENVSHSCIE - Environmental Science then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying EVOLHSCIE - Evolutionary Biology then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying EVOPHSCIE - Evolutionary Biology and Palaeontology the complete EART3002 - Field Palaeontology 3
If studying EXPEHSCIE - Experimental Physics then completePHYSX301 - Experimental Physics
If studying FOODHSCIE - Food Science and Technology then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studying GENEHSCIE - Genetics then complete BIOL2900 - Molecular and Biomedical Science Practical 2 or BIOL3901 - Genetics Practical 3B or BIOL3007 - Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Practical 3
If studyingGEOLHSCIE - Geology then complete EART3003 - Field Geoscience Program 3
If studyingGEOEHSCIE - Geology and Earth Resources then complete EART3003 - Field Geoscience Program 3
If studyingGEOPHSCIE - Geology and Palaeontology then complete EART3002 - Field Palaeontology 3
If studyingGEOYHSCIE - Geophysics then complete EART3004 - Geophysics 3C: Seismic Processing and Interpretation and may also complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studyingMARWHSCIE - Marine and Wildlife Conservation then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studyingMEDBHSCIE - Medicinal and Biological Chemistry then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studyingMICRHSCIE - Microbiology and Immunology then complete BIOL2900 - Molecular and Biomedical Science Practical 2 and BIOL3007 - Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Practical 3 and BIOL3012 - Microbiology and Immunology Practical 3
If studyingNUCCHSCIE - Nuclear Chemistry then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studyingNUCRHSCIE - Nuclear and Radiation Physics then complete PHYSX300 - Computational Physics or PHYSX301 - Experimental Physics
If studyingPHYGHSCIE - Physics and Geophysics then complete PHYS3004 - Optics and Photonics 3 or PHYSX300 - Computational Physics
If studyingPLABHSCIE - Plant Biology then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studyingPACHHSCIE - Pure and Applied Chemistry then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studyingSOILHSCIE - Soil Science then complete SCIE3900 - Science Professional Placement
If studyingSPACHSCIE - Space Science and Astrophysics then complete PHYSX301 - Experimental Physics
If studyingTHEOHSCIE - Theoretical Physics then complete PHYSX300 - Computational Physics or PHYSX301 - Experimental Physics
Complete 48 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Chemistry (Hons) A
|
Course code
CHEM4000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Communicating Science
|
Course code
EART4004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Honours Chemistry Project
|
Course code
CHEM4001
|
Units
36
|
Complete 24 units comprising:
- 6 units from Level 2 selective courses, and
- 12 units from Level 3 selective courses - List 1, and
- 6 units from Level 3 selective courses - List 2
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Medicinal and Biological Chemistry 2
|
Course code
CHEM2004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Nuclear and Radiation Chemistry 2
|
Course code
CHEM2007
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Analytical and Sustainable Chemistry 2
|
Course code
CHEM2009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Environmental Chemistry 2
|
Course code
CHEM2010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Materials Chemistry 2
|
Course code
CHEM2011
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Organic Chemistry 3
|
Course code
CHEM3001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Inorganic Chemistry 3
|
Course code
CHEM3002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Physical Chemistry 3
|
Course code
CHEM3003
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Medicinal and Biological Chemistry 3
|
Course code
CHEM3005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Analytical Chemistry 3
|
Course code
CHEM3007
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Synthetic Methods
|
Course code
CHEM3011
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Nuclear and Radiation Chemistry 3
|
Course code
CHEM3013
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Materials Chemistry 3
|
Course code
CHEM3014
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
With a Bachelor of Science (Honours) majoring in Chemistry you’ll gain advanced knowledge, research experience and professional capability. You’ll graduate with a strong grasp of chemical principles, practical lab skills and the ability to think critically, design experiments and analyse data – all highly sought after across industry, government and research.
You might work on developing new pharmaceuticals or improving the way medicines are delivered in the body. Maybe you’ll help design environmentally friendly materials or find safer ways to manage chemical waste. Perhaps you’ll contribute to innovations in energy storage, advanced manufacturing or food chemistry.
You could work in a wide range of sectors including:
- Environmental science and sustainability
- Pharmaceuticals and biotechnology
- Health and medical diagnostics
- Food and beverage science
- Water quality and treatment
- Consumer product development
- Agriculture and crop protection
- Mining, materials and manufacturing
- Forensics and chemical analysis
- Research institutes and universities.
Honours-level skills provide the opportunity for leadership roles and specialist positions earlier in your career.
Industry trends
Graduates of the Bachelor of Science (Honours) majoring in Chemistry at Adelaide University are entering a dynamic and evolving industry. The global chemical sector is projected to reach a value of USD6,324 billion by 2025, reflecting its significant economic impact (Global Chemical Industry Outlook 2025).
A key trend is the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in chemical research and development, which can reduce prediction inaccuracies by approximately 50%, thereby enhancing productivity and sustainability. Additionally, the industry is focusing on the development of safe and sustainable-by-design (SSbD) chemicals, aligning with global efforts to minimize environmental and health risks (Key Chemicals Industry Trends, 2025).
With a strong foundation in chemistry, Adelaide University graduates are well-equipped to contribute to these advancements and drive innovation in various sectors.
Accreditation
Adelaide University is working through relevant approvals for program accreditation ahead of students commencing in 2026.
Ready to apply?
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
