Chemistry
Chemistry is the science of substances – their structures, their properties and reactions that change them into other substances.
Knowledge of basic chemical principles is important in all branches of science and for a wide range of industries. Studying Chemistry develops problem-solving skills, logical thinking and analytical ability. It also ensures that you are familiar with handling information, be it numerical, oral, written or graphical, and dealing with complex ideas – attributes that are desirable to many employers.
Waikato was rated the top university in New Zealand for chemistry in the Tertiary Education Commission’s 2006 assessment of tertiary research.
Career Opportunities
- Analytical Technician
- Environmental Officer
- Forensic Scientist
- Industrial Chemist
- Product Development Chemist
- Laboratory Manager
RECOMMENDED BACKGROUND
School subjects required
NCEA Level 3 Chemistry. Some first-year papers have specific prerequisites so check the paper list carefully.
PLANNING YOUR DEGREE
To complete a major in Chemistry, students must complete 120 points above 100 Level, including 60 points above 200 Level from compulsory Chemistry papers.
Year 1
100 Level – Papers are worth 15 points.
Students wishing to keep their options open to progress in Chemistry or a related field should choose the two core papers:
Prerequisites
» CHEM101 – Chemical Concepts
» CHEM102 – Chemical Change and Organic Compounds
Students with good passes in NCEA Level 3 Chemistry may also be offered direct entry to the paper CHEM204 Analytical Chemistry and Instrumental Techniques in place of CHEM101.
Year 2
200 Level – Papers are worth 20 points unless specified.
Compulsory Papers
» CHEM201 – Organic Chemistry
» CHEM202 – Physical Chemistry
» CHEM203 – Inorganic Chemistry
If possible, it is best to take all these papers in the one year, as mixing them with 300 Level papers may lead to timetabling problems. Students intending to take CHEM306 Advanced Analytical Chemistry at 300 Level should also ensure they take its prerequisite paper CHEM204 Analytical Chemistry and Instrumental Techniques.
Year 3
300 Level – Papers are worth 20 points unless specified.
Students must pass at least three of the following papers:
» CHEM301 – Advanced Organic Chemistry
» CHEM302 – Advanced Physical Chemistry
» CHEM303 – Advanced Inorganic Chemistry
» CHEM306 – Advanced Analytical Chemistry
The other papers needed to complete the degree requirements of the BSc and BSc(Tech) may come from further optional papers in Chemistry, other science subjects or subjects from other Faculties/Schools of Studies.
