Basics of Online Degrees in Chemistry
Online Chemistry Degrees provide knowledge of the fundamental properties of molecules and the reactions that occur between them. Typically associate or bachelor degree programs, Online Chemistry Degree programs include classes in physical Chemistry, organic Chemistry, inorganic Chemistry, physics and calculus. In addition to online coursework, most Online Chemistry Degree programs require students to complete in-person laboratory classes to gain experience conducting experiments and documenting their results.
What Can I Do With an Online Chemistry Degree?
Graduates with Online Chemistry Degrees and adequate laboratory experience can obtain entry-level chemistry technician jobs conducting experiments and quality control processes for private companies and academic institutions. Those graduates with bachelor degrees may also earn teaching credentials and teach chemistry in high schools. Many graduates of Chemistry Online Degree programs pursue masters or Ph.D degrees, which enable them to work in the biomedical and pharmaceutical industries developing new products and tests or conducting disease prevention research. Other individuals with Online Degrees in Chemistry opt for careers in materials science, chemical engineering or the emerging field of green chemistry, developing materials that reduce waste and use fewer hazardous chemicals.
Employment Outlook for Careers Related to Online Chemistry Degrees
Employment of Chemists and Chemistry technicians in the biomedical and pharmaceutical industries will continue to grow, according to the U.S. Department of Labor; however, all other jobs for Chemists will decline slightly over the next decade (www.bls.gov). The American Chemical Society reports that graduates of Online Chemistry Degree programs with extensive laboratory experience will have the most employment opportunities (www.acs.org). In 2008, Chemical technicians earned an average wage of $43,710 and Chemists earned $71,070, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov). High school teachers earned an average salary of $54,390.
