Explore your study options
Graduate with industry experience. You will spend time in an organisation related to your studies and apply your knowledge as you learn. You'll develop professional networks as you explore career options in the real-life settings where today's graduates thrive.
Undergraduate
Undergraduate (your first degree)
A Deakin undergraduate course is the foundation of your future career, usually completed in two to four years. Duration varies based on degree type, enrolment pattern and any credit received from recognition of prior learning.
Postgraduate
Postgraduate (further study)
A postgraduate qualification can be undertaken by students who have already completed an undergraduate degree or possess significant, demonstrable work experience. Postgraduate courses include graduate certificates, graduate diplomas, masters and PhDs, as well as specialist programs for industry professionals.
Research
Higher Degrees by Research (supervised research)
Research degrees are research based master’s or PhD programs that focus on a single area of expertise. They provide students the opportunity to carry out highly specialised research under expert supervision.
Choose a chemistry and pharmaceutical science degree that will make you work ready
Learn with leading scientists who are passionate about sharing their expertise so you graduate confident to take on a career in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries.
Industry-based learning
Industry-based learning plays a valuable role in preparing you for employment. It involves working full or part time in industry as part of your degree. Placements are incorporated into a unit of study and credited towards your degree.
Experts at your side
You will be guided every step of the way by experts who are leaders in their field. Our teaching staff are active contributors to the science industry, at the forefront of scientific research and making them well-placed to pass on the skills that are most valued by employers.
Professional recognition
The Bachelor of Science (chemistry major) has been professionally accredited by the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI). Graduates of this course are encouraged to apply for membership of the respective local branch of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute.
Top professional roles in chemistry and pharmaceutical science
Got a curious mind? Interested in health? Pharmaceuticals is a diverse and growing sector backed by strong government support, providing many job opportunities. It is estimated that 28,000 new highly skilled medical technology, biotechnology and pharmaceutical jobs will be created in Australia by 2030 – nearly 50% associated with research.*
You could pursue a career in the pharmaceutical, food and agricultural industries, in a variety of roles:
- analytical chemistry
- consumer affairs
- corrosion control
- education (secondary and tertiary)
- environmental monitoring
- forensic laboratories
- government agencies
- laboratory supervision
- quality control
- research
- resource development
- scientific and environmental institutes
- teaching.
Study with the best
Deakin is ranked in the top 250 universities globally for chemistry.^ This rating highlights Deakin’s world-class facilities, academic reputation, employer reputation and research impact.
I chose to study science to help improve how we do things and wanted to contribute to the development of better processes for society.
Adhitya Sutresna
Bachelor of Science
World-class teaching experiences
Deakin’s industry-shaped courses and opportunities for practical, real-world experience will equip you with the specialised skills to succeed in your future career.
Learning in action
From theory to practice, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to apply your learning. Get hands-on training in our world-class laboratories, testing your findings in real-life biomedical settings, and gain industry experience with 80 to 160 hours of work placement.
Unrivalled facilities
Access modern, state-of-the-art laboratories. These include our chemistry, physiology, biology and preparation labs. Benefit from high-quality practical experiences using cutting-edge equipment that meets the needs of the modern scientist.
Your degree, your way
Our undergraduate courses offer you flexibility. Customise your degree by choosing from specialisations that let you become an expert in your chosen field. Follow your passion and get more out of your degree by learning about what matters to you.
Study science at Deakin
Hear why our students love studying science, the diverse study opportunities and the benefits of the hands-on, practical approach at Deakin.
Explore our science facilities
Explore Deakin's life and environmental science facilities at our Melbourne Burwood Campus, featuring modern labs and equipment.
Footnotes
*Australia’s National Health and Medical Industry Growth Plan, 2018
^QS World University Rankings by Subject: 2024
Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our list of sources.
Contact us
Got a question about our chemistry and pharmaceutical courses? Our course advisers are available to speak to you about your study options and how we can help you further your career.
Domestic students
1800 693 888
Enquire online