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What Can You Do With a Chemistry Degree?

Chemistry majors learn how to analyze materials, run experiments, interpret data, and explain results clearly. A bachelor’s degree in chemistry can lead to roles in biotech, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, environmental testing, forensics, and research, with additional paths in healthcare and professional school.

Find Your Niche

Chemistry is a deeply nuanced field with many areas of specialization. From analytical and biochemistry to inorganic, organic, physical, theoretical, and environmental chemistry, students can explore all the branches of chemistry. Students can explore different aspects of chemistry to consider different career paths and job functions.

Through Willamette’s chemistry program, you’ll explore the many ways chemistry shapes the world around you. Close faculty mentorship, hands-on lab work, and small class sizes create opportunities for undergraduate research and personalized study, helping you build skills for graduate school and a wide range of careers.

Is a Chemistry Degree Worth It?

A chemistry degree can be worth it if you like solving problems with data and experiments, and you want a credential that transfers across industries. The tradeoff is that chemistry is time-intensive labs, quantitative coursework, and careful technical writing. Many higher-paying research roles require graduate study, but a bachelor’s degree can still open doors in laboratory work, quality assurance, regulatory testing, and manufacturing.

A chemistry student using a droplet

What Skills Do You Learn?

Studying chemistry allows students to deepen their skills in:

  • Research. Conduct scientific research, analysis, and draw conclusions from experiments.
  • Data presentation. Learn how to showcase your research to a variety of audiences.
  • Collaboration. Chemists often conduct research with others. Develop the skills to work alongside others on projects and papers.
  • Problem-solving skills. Chemists identify problems, explore solutions, and test available options. Navigate problems effectively to draw conclusions.
  • Laboratory techniques. Build hands-on skills in solution preparation, titrations, chemical synthesis, proper sample handling, and contamination control.
A professor speaking to a classroom about chemistry

What Jobs Can You Get With a Chemistry Degree?

Wondering what careers a chemistry degree can lead to? Some paths may require advanced degrees or certifications, while others value work experience, lab skills, and hands-on research. Common career options include:

*Many of these career paths require additional degrees. Speak with an advisor for additional information on how to qualify for a specific job. Median pay ranges are based on 2024 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Is Chemistry a Good Major?

Chemistry is a great major for curious individuals who want to solve problems, experiment, and understand how the world works. While students develop strong analytical skills, they also graduate with plenty of career opportunities.

In fact, according to an ACS survey with 2024 data, chemists and chemical engineers have a median salary of $120,000, and an unemployment rate of 1.2%. If you're interested in a major that has a low unemployment rate and a high earning potential, chemistry is a great choice.

A student conducting a lab with safety goggles and gloves

Is Chemistry a Hard Major?

Chemistry can be a challenging major, but it is also extremely rewarding. With good study habits, faculty support, and hands-on learning opportunities, many students thrive in the major. While the major demands strong math skills and long hours in the lab, it pays off due to a low unemployment rate and an impressive median salary.

A professor demonstrating a scientific reaction with nitrogen

Consider Graduate Degree Programs

While most chemistry-related jobs require a bachelor's degree, many positions also require a graduate degree. Consider programs in chemistry, materials science, biochemistry, chemical engineering, medicine, public health, or pharmacy. Some students choose to pursue law, business, or education for a specific path related to chemistry.

Willamette graduates have pursued graduate programs at:

  • Cornell University
  • Dartmouth College
  • Medical College of Wisconsin
  • Michigan State University
  • New York University
  • Oregon Health & Sciences University
  • Stanford University
  • University of California at Los Angeles
  • University of Oregon
  • University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
  • University of Southern Denmark

Real-World Examples

Curious where a chemistry degree can take you? Willamette students and alumni have found powerful opportunities and careers at:

  • Boyce Thompson Institute for Plant Research
  • Intel Corporation
  • Legacy Health
  • Lonza Biomanufacturing Research & Development
  • National Renewable Energy Laboratory
  • Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
  • Salem Health
  • Sandia National Laboratories
  • State of Oregon
  • Creare
  • Innova Diagnostics
  • KBI Biopharma
  • Leidos
  • McKinsey & Company
  • NanoString Technologies
  • Natural Plant Products
  • Rejuvenate Bio
  • Roche Sequencing Solutions
  • Unity Biotechnology
“A big part of my career as a research scientist requires communicating clearly, succinctly, and persuasively–my efforts in writing grants, publishing research papers, lecturing to students, and speaking with the general public all benefit from having this guiding experience at Willamette.”
Robert Macfarlane BA’04

Why Choose Willamette for Chemistry?

Utilize state-of-the-art laboratories and equipment to conduct research typically available at the graduate level. Chemistry students can work alongside faculty with the iScience Lab and Leica DM2500 microscopes to present findings at national conferences. Past research projects include:

  • Optimization of DNA Hairpin and Quadruplex FRET Based Biosensors for Parkinson’s Disease
  • Fluorescent sensors for analysis of supramolecular encapsulated drug delivery systems
  • The Use of Silicone Accessories to Determine Organic Chemistry Students’ Exposure During Lab
Science Facilities
Equipment

At Willamette, we believe in action-oriented learning. Our students have the opportunity to encourage local elementary school children to pursue STEM fields through the Willamette Science Outreach Program. Students can connect with like-minded peers through student clubs such as Chemistry Club, Biology Club, and Physics Club.

Students also have the unique opportunity to conduct research alongside faculty members. Gain real-world opportunities that help you stand out after college.

Willamette Science Outreach Program
Student Clubs

We keep classes small, meaning your professors get to know you one-on-one and can offer individual academic and career guidance. They'll be able to write letters of recommendation that are personal testaments of your achievements. No matter if you pursue graduate school or a career path, they can help offer the right level of support.

Our Career Development Center is here to help you transition after college. From resume workshops to one-on-one guidance with an advisor, you'll feel prepared to build a thriving career.

Chemistry Faculty
Career Development

Develop your communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills that employers value alongside the technical knowledge of your field. Willamette's liberal arts foundation allows you to develop a wide skillset that goes beyond science skills.

Our chemistry program also offers a wide range of subtopics. Take relevant courses from experts in environmental science, biology, physics, and other related subjects. Explore classes related to organic chemistry, physical chemistry, biochemistry, analytical chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and environmental chemistry.

Academics at Willamette

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