It involves the study of molecules, their formation, their structure, and their properties. It includes the study of chemical reactions, their rates, extent and energies. For example, the laws of thermodynamics and the quantum theory are preeminent examples of the foundation stones upon which the discipline of chemistry is established. The boundaries of the traditional discipline of chemistry are becoming blurred as the fundamental molecular bases for many processes of the physical and biological sciences are becoming understood. Hence, chemistry's ties to other sciences are closer than could have been imagined just a half-century ago.
Chemistry is an active science that is vital to human existence.
Energy needs, environmental concerns, and requirements for new materials all involve major contributions from chemists. Chemistry involves more than test tubes and beakers. It includes working with a variety of equipment and instruments such as mass spectrometers, calorimeters, chromatographs, ultracentrifuges, lasers, X-ray diffractometers, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometers. This degree provides an excellent preparation for those individuals in preprofessional programs, and it also provides strong career alternatives in chemistry. Graduates in chemistry obtain positions in virtually every industry, and those who have imagination and intellectual curiosity are in particular demand.