Why Study Chemistry?

Opening doors to an exciting career

A Chemistry degree opens doors. Our Chemistry graduates acquire a wide range of skills to ensure that they will meet the demands of professional roles in industry and the public sector. Besides gaining a fundamental understanding of concepts in Chemistry and Biopharmaceutical Chemistry, you will gain hands-on experience in a wide range of practical and analytical methods typically used in a modern chemical laboratory. The skills you learn in Chemistry in the University of Galway are not solely subject-orientated, but include professional transferable skills, such as technical writing skills, verbal communication and presentations skills to help you develop to become a rounded, well-skilled and balanced professional.  The BSc in Chemistry programme is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry, while all of our Chemistry programmes, ranging from bachelor to PhD level, are internationally recognised for their quality.

Could you envisage a career in food sciences, the plastics industry or the environmental sector? Would you like to work in the pharmaceutical industry or maybe combine a farming background with agricultural sciences? How about studying the Chemistry of marine species? Does the idea of forensic science appeal to you? Then studying Chemistry is the way to go for you. 

Chemistry-related jobs are all around us: in the small, medium and multinational chemical companies, the private, public and educational sectors - the list of career possibilities is long, varied and very exciting. In Ireland about 17,000 people are employed in the chemical industry. Most of the graduates employed by the chemical industry are chemists. Major employment opportunities for Chemistry graduates include:  

Industry
Production & Research, Pharmaceuticals and Synthesis, Polymers and Materials and Specialty Chemicals (Chemists often move into management and administration). 

Industry
Forensic Laboratory, State Laboratory, Customs & Excise, Regional & Co. Analytical & Environmental Laboratories, General Civil Service 

Education
Third Level Teaching & Research, Second Level School Teaching (including General Science), Primary School Teaching (Chemistry Graduates can join teacher training with degree recognition). 

Hear from Darragh McHugh, and Dr. Laura Cunningham as they discuss studying Chemistry at the University of Galway.

Why study a BSc in Biopharmaceutical Chemistry?

BSc Biopharmaceutical Chemistry is the study of biomolecules and their applications as therapeutic medicine, and it is a multidisciplinary subject that combines areas of chemistry and biology. Offering hands-on research projects and valuable work placement opportunities, this programme equips students with the expertise required for success in the field.

Hear from our students Niamh Connaughton, Stephen Cafferky, and Ciaran McGrory who discuss there experiences within the Biopharmaceutical Chemistry programme.