Employment options for those with a bachelor s degree in Chemistry are many and varied. Many chemists work in research and development. In basic research, chemists investigate the properties, composition and structure of matter and laws that govern the combination of elements and reactions of substances. Many other chemists work in applied research and development and use knowledge gained from research to create new products or to improve existing ones.
Chemists also work in production and quality control in chemical manufacturing plants.
Among the new professions which have arisen because of the increasing complexity and interdisciplinary nature of scientific and technological problem-solving is that made up of chemists whose interests are in management, marketing and production rather than the conventional research and development. A knowledge of the German language and computer programming usually are recommended for all Chemistry majors. Students should consult an advisor or the university to which they plan to transfer for more specific recommendations. Students may elect to take general education courses in the summer term. The majority of chemists are employed in manufacturing firms, according to the 1996-97 Occupational Outlook Handbook provided by the Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.