Areas of Chemistry

How does your degree or training connect to a career in the chemical sciences?

Explore these six main areas of chemistry to learn what chemistry professionals do in each area and what kinds of jobs are available.

  • Analytical Chemistry image
    Analytical Chemistry

    The science of obtaining, processing, and communicating information about the composition and structure of matter.

  • Biological/Biochemistry image
    Biological/Biochemistry

    The study of the structure, composition, and chemical reactions of substances in living systems.

  • Chemical Engineering image
    Chemical Engineering

    The translation of processes developed in the lab into practical applications for the commercial production of products.

  • Inorganic Chemistry image
    Inorganic Chemistry

    The study of properties and behavior of inorganic compounds, including metals, minerals and organometallic compounds.

  • Organic Chemistry image
    Organic Chemistry

    The study of the structure, properties, and reactions of compounds and materials that contain carbon atoms.

  • Physical Chemistry image
    Physical Chemistry

    The study of how matter behaves on a molecular and atomic level and how chemical reactions occur.