Have you ever wondered what the makeup of our world is or how it was formed? What processes cause it to transform and whether these can be controlled? If such questions arise in your mind, you may want to opt for an academic path in this field, starting out by pursuing an associate degree in chemistry.
Understanding Chemistry
Chemistry deals with the form and behavior of matter and its constituent particles. This field has a number of subcategories such as:
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Biochemistry - This branch of chemistry studies the chemical composition of and the reactions in biological systems.
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Physical - This subcategory deal with the study of the energy component within matter.
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Organic - Organic chemistry is the study of organic compounds and their chemical structure.
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Inorganic - Inorganic chemistry explores compounds that contain either one or no carbon atoms, covering a range of areas such as metals and other materials.
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Analytical - Analytical chemistry deals with the arrangement of substances in matter.
A degree in this area of study can possibly help you qualify for a variety of jobs. You may get into the field of research, teaching or become a lab technician depending on the type of degree you pursue.
What are the features of an associate’s degree in chemistry?
An associate in chemistry will provide you with foundational knowledge in this field and enable you to qualify for a positions in a private or government laboratory or in firms engaged in the development, production, sale or use of chemical products. Chemical technicians form an important part of research, development and production teams. They are involved in lab work such as product development, chemical and physical testing.
The associate program may include classes covering general and organic chemistry concepts. In addition to classroom-based learning, you will also have to complete a laboratory component to gain hands-on experience in the field.
There are many institutes that offer online degrees in chemistry. Although online programs are equally rigorous in terms of the program curriculum, they offer several benefits such as a reduction in travel expenses, the ability to study from virtually any location and holding on to a job while you pursue your degree.
What courses will you study in an associate in chemistry?
Combining basic chemistry courses with general education, the associate in chemistry may provide you with instruction in a number of subjects. Some of the topics you may study in this program are:
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Algebra
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Organic chemistry
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General physics
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Trigonometry
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Calculus
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Biochemistry
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Analytical Chemistry
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Physical Chemistry
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Probability
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Statistic
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Computer Science
What type of careers can you pursue with an associate in chemistry?
Once you complete an associate degree in chemistry, you may become eligible to apply for chemical technician positions by seeking out job opportunities in a number of industries such as:
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Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing
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Chemical manufacturing
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Research and development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences
Technical sales, writing and advertising are other areas of employment open to chemical technicians. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of chemical technicians is projected to grow by 9% from 2012 to 2022.
Median Pay (2012): $42,920 (BLS)
Pursuing an associate degree in chemistry will provide you with an opportunity to learn about the composition of different materials. While some students seek relevant employment opportunities, others may transfer their credits to a bachelor of science in chemistry.