Learn chemistry
Chemistry is often referred to as the study of everything around us. By better understanding how matter interacts, you can set yourself up for several rewarding careers. Here's how to get started learning chemistry.
Why learn chemistry?
Chemistry is an area of science that studies how matter and substances interact, combine, and change. Industries that heavily use chemistry include healthcare, agriculture, textiles, biotechnology, and energy.
As chemistry can be a challenging topic, most jobs require you to hold at least a bachelor's degree. Some of the more popular jobs you can get with an education in chemistry include pharmaceutical scientist, chemical engineer, materials scientist, food scientist, and toxicologist.
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Choosing the right chemistry program for you
If you're new to chemistry, a well-rounded program heavy in math and science may be the best starting point. If you already have a base level of knowledge, you may be interested in a more niche area of study. Popular specializations include organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, biochemistry, and physical chemistry.
If you don't have a strong background in math, you may want to look for math courses to supplement your education or choose a full degree program. Chemistry often relies on algebra, ratios, statistics, and calculus.
Based on your goals, here are several options available for learning chemistry.
Courses
Online chemistry courses can help you focus on the area of chemistry you are most interested in and provide quality options for beginners. These programs typically last a few weeks and can be completed at your own pace.
Certifications
Certifications are rare within the chemistry field but may provide ways to showcase expertise working with certain types of chemicals, processes, or substances. A certification can give you a valuable credential that demonstrates your skills to employers.
Executive education programs
For executives who need chemistry knowledge to supplement their skills, an executive education program can help you learn while balancing other responsibilities. These programs typically last several months.
Degrees
As many jobs in chemistry require a degree, this may be the ideal starting point for people interested in the profession. Earning a bachelor's in chemistry can prepare you with foundational knowledge, while a master's degree can help you pursue advanced roles with higher salaries.
Jobs in chemistry
Most chemistry-related jobs take place in a lab setting. You may find yourself testing textile products, developing drugs, building new technologies, or creating new flavors of foods and drinks.
Here's a deeper look at a few jobs you may be interested in.
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