Chemistry (Advanced)

Overview

Overview

This major is a Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) course, designed for high-performing students to pursue their interest in a particular science discipline through a core of research, leadership and entrepreneurship. 

This course trains you to become a skilled chemist. You will study theoretical and practical aspects of chemistry, including synthesis, analysis and molecular modelling. Your learning will be largely laboratory-based, at Curtin’s Resources and Chemistry Precinct.

As an Advanced Science student, you will benefit from the flexible approach to studying Chemistry, with opportunities to participate in for-credit research experiences, industry placements and/or interdisciplinary team-based projects.

You’ll gain practical laboratory experience throughout your studies, with opportunities to engage in immersive industry and/or research experience. In the second and third years of your course, you can undertake for-credit internships and work experience.

You’ll also develop skills in problem-solving, teamwork and critical analysis, which are invaluable for careers both within and outside science.

In your final year, you will undertake a capstone experience, with the opportunity to engage with chemistry projects ranging from pure research through to translational (entrepreneurial) science.

Within Chemistry, you may choose to specialise in one of four areas: Analytical and Forensic Chemistry, Biological Chemistry, Geochemistry or Materials Science.

Analytical and Forensic Chemistry

In this specialisation, you will learn how to solve complex, real-world analytical problems using a combination of theoretical knowledge and sophisticated scientific instruments.

You’ll develop effective problem-solving and decision-making skills within the ethical and professional context of analytical and forensic science, including in relation to regulatory and legislative requirements.

Biological Chemistry

Biological chemists contribute to the diagnosis of diseases, investigating potential cures, and the design and synthesis of medicines.

In this specialisation, you will study the essential processes of life at the molecular level. You’ll learn how to use complex equipment and apply procedures to understand the bio-molecular world, explore applications in biosensors and drug design, and monitor the impacts of new substances (such as food additives and medicines) on living organisms.

Geochemistry

In this specialisation, you will study the chemical make-up of the Earth and other planets. Your studies will focus on the chemical reactions and processes involved in the creation of various soils and rocks.

Materials Science

Materials scientists examine materials from a unified viewpoint. They look for connections between the underlying structure of a material, its properties, how processing changes the material and what the material can do.

In this specialisation, you will study a range of materials, including metals, semiconductors, glasses, ceramics and polymers. You’ll learn about the various analytical instruments and forms of radiation used to investigate the microstructure of samples.

How this course will make you industry ready

You have the opportunity to work on real-world industry projects at the Resources and Chemistry Precinct, where Curtin's teaching and research laboratories are colocated with Western Australia's premier chemical science laboratory, ChemCentre.

What you'll learn

• Demonstrate an advanced knowledge of the nature of science, its methods and processes, and an advanced knowledge of chemical principles and concepts; contribute new knowledge in a range of chemical disciplines.
• Critically analyse challenging and multi-faceted problems in chemistry, generate innovative scientific solutions through research using practical and theoretical tools; critically evaluate findings within the current body of disciplinary knowledge.
• Access and make judgements on the value of available knowledge using a variety of tools, and incorporate them into the planning, conduct and communication of their own work.
• Communicate approaches and solutions, ideas and findings to an audience of chemical professionals through written word and by oral presentation.
• Use established and emerging technologies within the context of the chemical professions and apply them to address complex research questions.
• Demonstrate intellectual independence and engage in self-driven continuous discipline and professional education and training in the chemical sciences.
• Participate in the generation and application of science in addressing global problems while recognising the international and cultural issues in chemistry, understand compliance with international ethical and professional standards.
• Work collaboratively and respectfully with scientists from a range of cultural backgrounds and understand the importance of cultural diversity and individual human rights that impact research in the chemical sciences or the broader profession.
• Be able to work as an independent chemical scientist and collaboratively within teams either as a professional leader or collaborator using effective problem solving and decision making skills within the professional context of the chemical sciences.