Careers & Outcomes

Academics / Departments & Programs / Chemistry & Biochemistry / Careers & Outcomes

Chemists explore and manipulate the chemical elements to uncover the splendor of the created order and to develop uses for this new knowledge. The study of chemistry allows you to view the world in a profound new way and empowers you to significantly change it.

Is a career in chemistry or biochemistry for you?

Do you want to understand the material world around you?
Are you fascinated by the molecular complexity of living organisms?
Can you envision tailoring materials down to the very atoms and molecules?
Have you ever tried to make something that has never been made before?
Can you inspire a new generation of chemists through teaching?
Do you want to make a difference in the fight against disease?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then a career in chemistry or biochemistry may be the right calling for you.

Careers in chemistry & biochemistry

Countless vocations are open to chemistry and biochemistry majors, both working directly in the field of chemistry and working at the intersections of chemistry with other fields such as medicine, law, engineering, business, and education.

The links below provide a detailed look at several career paths that a degree in chemistry and biochemistry opens up for you.

Pre-medicine and other pre-professional health options

A chemistry or biochemistry major can form an excellent foundation for a career in many health-related fields, and many chemistry and biochemistry majors choose to join one of Calvin's pre-professional health programs. Calvin's pre-medicine, pre-pharmacy, and other pre-professsional health programs can be excellent options for chemistry and biochemistry students. A faculty advisor can help you consider your career goals, and whether a pre-professional health program is a good path for you.

Some careers to consider

Technical writer
Chemical information specialist
Research assistant
Textile chemist
Teacher/professor
Biochemist
Chemical engineer
Electronics engineer (solid state chemistry)
Environmental inspector
Food scientist/technologist

Forensic chemist
Genetic engineer
Materials chemist
Medical technologist
Natural resource manager
Pharmaceutical chemist
Polymer chemist
Water purification chemist

Get started at the Career Center.

Teach chemistry

Take the next step:

SOCIAL MEDIA

The latest sights & sounds | #calvinuniversity

Female student wading in Plaster Creek, examining a sample of water, holding it up to the sky.

ACADEMIC OPTIONS

With over 100 majors and programs, you’re bound to find something you love.

Search academic options

Browse by category

× CLOSE DRAWER

A dramatic view looking up at the Calvin's Crossing bridge, with a perfect blue sky overhead.

Apply to Calvin

It all starts here! We accept applications on a rolling basis throughout the year. All completed applications receive equal consideration.

Start your journey × CLOSE DRAWER

A female and male student walking side by side down the Calvin's Crossing bridge, conversing with each other.

Visit Calvin

Find the visit option that works best for you and get a taste for life at Calvin!

Browse Visit Options Launch the virtual tour × CLOSE DRAWER

Students huddled around, lighting sparklers with a beautiful evening sky behind them.

Request Info

Learn why Calvin’s dedication to faith and discovery have earned it the rank of #3 among regional Midwest universities.

× CLOSE DRAWER

Graduates in their robes, tossing their caps high into the air, laughing.

Costs & Financial Aid

Families from all economic backgrounds—many just like yours—are making Calvin work. Scholarships, grants and loans are the tools that make Calvin possible.

Explore financial aid & Scholarships How much does Calvin cost? × CLOSE DRAWER