Chemistry is one of the three main arms of science, along with biology and physics. It can be defined as the study of matter – so that means what things are composed of and their structure, properties, and how that changes when placed in different situations.

The fact it is the study of matter at its most primordial level, means that there is much overlap between chemistry and other scientific disciplines. For example, the study of living organisms requires the study of matter’s relationship with forces, so in some cases one cannot study chemistry, without relation to the other sciences.

Typical modules studied on a chemistry degree include organic chemistry, physical chemistry, analytical methods and maths in chemistry. In an undergraduate degree, students often choose electives in their first year, which will inform their dissertation topic and possibly lead to further study. Specializations might be biochemistry, medicinal chemistry, astro-chemistry and nuclear chemistry.

Chemistry lets us understand the universe by studying atoms and their activity

While physicists focus on the quantum realm or the stars, chemists are concerned with understanding and manipulating the atoms and molecules that compose the world around us. Chemists of the past worked to discover types of elements, molecules, and the relations between them. While this research still carries on, today’s chemists also work in new, exciting fields. In the nano-materials field, chemists develop substances with enormous manufacturing implications, like grapheme, an incredibly strong and light carbon molecule. In the bioengineering field, chemists produce environmentally friendly materials using bacteria, such as bacteria that create natural, biodegradable plastics.

However, chemists need well-equipped laboratories to do their work. Each school on this list has proven time and again that it has the investments and facilities required to fully utilize their chemists’ potential. Wherever the future of chemistry lies, these schools will be at the forefront.

Chemistry is as challenging a subject as it is rewarding, so why not experience both the challenges and rewards abroad? Students who study chemistry abroad are exposed to new laboratory techniques and study skills, but more importantly new languages, foods, and cultures. Studying chemistry abroad can also provide students with the chance to get involved in life-changing research or work alongside a professional chemist in practically any country in the world, and gain incomparable experience in the field. Another benefit of the field, it has a language all of its own, so language barriers usually aren’t an issue for chemistry students who study abroad. Studying chemistry is not only practical it is possible, as there are plenty of internationally ranked chemistry programs to choose from.

Best universities for Chemistry in top countries

If you are a chemistry student and you are ready to take your education to the next level, and then consider studying chemistry abroad in one of these top countries:

1.  Germany

A country famous for welcoming international students with open arms, Germany tops the list of places to study chemistry abroad. Germany has the largest chemical industry in Europe, and therefore many universities offer technical courses, focused for students looking to enter the workforce upon graduation. Many German universities offer students a chance to sample a large variety of classes, from typical theoretical courses to specialized macromolecular chemistry, the majority of which are taught in English.

Germany has also seen a great deal of education reform over the last two decades, making studying in Germany more affordable than ever. Most of Germany’s 16 states offer free tuition, and in situations where they don’t, students are rarely expected to pay over $1,000 per semester. Whether you choose a university in a big city, rich with centuries of history, or smaller, up-and-coming college cities, German universities will expose you to new people, introduce you to the German language and the German work ethic, and leave you with experience in a top chemistry academic program. Some of the top universities in that you can study Chemistry.

• Heidelberg University
• Technical University of Munich
• University of Bonn
• University of Tübingen
• RWTH Aachen University

2.  The UK  

Boasting several of the top research universities in the world, studying chemistry abroad in the UK is an endeavor that will surely pay off. If you’re interested in chemistry research specifically, this is the place to be. Universities in the UK are tasked with major projects, such as developing products used in cancer medicines, mimicking receptor signals, or taking a closer look into the chemistry of neuroscience. Therefore, universities are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment so studying chemistry in the UK means studying under some of the brightest minds and in the best facilities in the world. 

Chemistry classes in the UK are all taught in English, but that doesn’t detract from the cultural experience of studying abroad. Living and studying abroad in the UK, whether in bustling London or unique Glasgow, provide students with numerous cultural opportunities. The only major downside to studying chemistry in the UK is the cost, as the UK is one of the most expensive locations for study abroad due to the overall prestige of the regions academic institutions. Some of the best universities for chemistry in the UK:

• University of Oxford
• University of Cambridge
• University of Sussex
• University of Surrey
• University of Greenwich

3.  Australia

A country and a continent, Australia is a huge area to explore and a huge center of innovation in the field of chemistry. Chemistry is such a popular area of study in Australia that students will be able to find a range of specialized courses to enroll in, such as polymer chemistry, pharmaceutical chemistry, environmental chemistry, and synthetic chemistry.

Additionally, Australian universities tend to focus on hands-on experience. If you plan your study abroad semester(s) correctly and have the necessary prerequisites, you may find yourself working on a large, fully-funded research project or a unique niche project, such as studying the chemistry of winemaking or examining chemicals found in ocean organisms, during your time in Australia. Studying chemistry in Australia provides students with a once-in-a-lifetime experience in many ways, from the courses you may not normally be exposed to, to the adventures you can have outside of the classroom exploring the coastal beauty and life “down under”. Some of the best universities for chemistry in Australia:

• Monash university
• University of New South Wales
• University of Adelaide
• University of Tasmania
• Curtin University

4.  China

A hub of economical, technical, and industrial growth, China is home to many of the world’s foremost chemistry degree programs, therefore it is a great place to study chemistry abroad.  Chemistry is an integral part of China’s growth, in both medical and developmental applications, so universities take pride in their chemistry and chemical technology courses. 

Studying chemistry abroad in China will not only open your eyes to new applications of the science you love, but new ways of living as well. Many chemistry courses in China can be taken in English, but elective courses may not always be available. However, studying in China can be a chance to broaden your mind by learning the basics of another language, traveling to see the remnants of the history of a global power, and change your perspectives of the world, even in the hours you’ll spend in the chemistry lab. Some of the top universities in that you can study Chemistry.

• University of Science and Technology of China
• Nanjing University
• Peking University, Beijing
• Fudan University, Shanghai
• Xiamen University

5.  Ireland 

Ireland is one of the most popular destinations for students looking to study chemistry abroad, largely due to the similarities between Irish chemistry curriculums and American ones. Chemistry classes are taught in English in Ireland, and include all the relevant material needed to keep your degree courses on track, so students need not fret over the thought of tacking on extra semesters or years because of study abroad.

Ireland is an appealing country in many ways. Students often choose Ireland for study abroad to explore their own cultural heritage, but end up staying because of the impeccable environment and warm Irish people. Studying chemistry in Ireland is a wonderful way to see the world, while staying on-track in your degree program. Top universities to look into;

• University of Dublin
• Maynooth University
• Trinity College Dublin
• University of Limerick
• National university of Ireland, Galway

WHAT DO CHEMISTS DO?

The behavior of atoms, molecules, and ions determines the sort of world we live in, our shapes and sizes, and even how we feel on a given day. Chemists who understand these phenomena are very well equipped to tackle problems faced by our modern society. On any given day, a chemist may be studying the mechanism of the recombination of DNA molecules, measuring the amount of insecticide in drinking water, comparing the protein content of meats, developing a new antibiotic, or analyzing a moon rock. To design a synthetic fiber, a life-saving drug, or a space capsule requires a knowledge of chemistry. To understand why an autumn leaf turns red, or why a diamond is hard, or why soap gets us clean, requires, first, a basic understanding of chemistry.

It may be obvious to you that a chemistry background is important if you plan to teach chemistry or to work in the chemical industry developing chemical commodities such as polymeric materials, pharmaceuticals, flavorings, preservatives, dyestuffs, or fragrances. You may also be aware that chemists are frequently employed as environmental scientists, chemical oceanographers, chemical information specialists, chemical engineers, and chemical salespersons. However, it may be less obvious to you that a significant knowledge of chemistry is often required in a number of related professions including medicine, pharmacy, medical technology, nuclear medicine, molecular biology, biotechnology, pharmacology, toxicology, paper science, pharmaceutical science, hazardous waste management, art conservation, forensic science and patent law. Thus, a chemistry degree can be effectively combined with advanced work in other fields which may lead, for example, to work in higher management (sometimes with an M.B.A.), the medical field (with a medical degree), or in the patent field (possibly with a law degree).

It is often observed that today’s graduate, unlike the graduate of a generation ago, should anticipate not a single position with one employer or in one industry, but rather many careers. You will be well prepared for this future if, in your college years, you take advantage of the opportunity to become broadly educated, to learn to be flexible and to be a creative problem solver. Knowledge and skills gained in your college courses may be directly applicable in your first job, but science and technology change at a rapid pace. You will keep up and stay ahead if you graduate with the skills and self-discipline to pursue a lifetime of learning. Since chemistry provides many of these skills and is a fundamental driver in the business and commerce sector of our society, chemists and biochemists are likely to remain in continual demand.

A bachelor’s degree in chemistry is also an ideal pre-medicine degree. Medical schools do not require a particular college major, but a chemistry background will be helpful in the advanced study of biochemistry, endocrinology, physiology, microbiology, and pharmacology. Chemistry is also an excellent major for students planning careers in other health professions such as pharmacy, dentistry, optometry and veterinary medicine. All of these professional programs require chemistry for admission. Most require at least one year of general chemistry and one year of organic chemistry, both with laboratories. Many students have found that having a chemical background gives them a distinct advantage in these professional programs.

Whether your goal is to become a surgeon or a research scientist, a teacher or an information specialist, you should examine chemistry as a college major. It isn’t for everyone; but those students who do choose chemistry usually find it as interesting as it is challenging, and they always take great pride in the degree they earn as undergraduates.

Why study Chemistry?

Chemistry is the study of matter and energy and the interaction between them. There are many reasons to study chemistry, even if you aren’t pursuing a career in science.

Chemistry is everywhere in the world around you! It’s in the food you eat, clothes you wear, water you drink, medicines, air, cleaners… you name it. Chemistry sometimes is called the “central science” because it connects other sciences to each other, such as biology, physics, geology, and environmental science. Here are some of the best reasons to study chemistry.

1. Chemistry helps you to understand the world around you. Why do leaves change color in the fall? Why are plants green? How is cheese made? What is in soap and how does it clean? These are all questions that can be answered by applying chemistry.
2. Basic knowledge of chemistry helps you to read and understand product labels.
3. Chemistry can help you make informed decisions. Will a product work as advertised or is it a scam? If you understand how chemistry works you’ll be able to separate reasonable expectations from pure fiction.
4. Chemistry is at the heart of cooking. If you understand the chemical reactions involved in making baked goods rise or neutralizing acidity or thickening sauces, chances are you’ll be a better cook.
5. A command of chemistry can help keep you safe! You’ll know which household chemicals are dangerous to keep together or mix and which can be used safely.
6. Chemistry teaches useful skills. Because it is a science, learning chemistry means learning how to be objective and how to reason and solve problems.
7. Helps you to understand current events, including news about petroleum, product recalls, pollution, the environment and technological advances.
8. Makes life’s little mysteries a little less… mysterious. Chemistry explains how things work.
9. Chemistry opens up career options. There are many careers in chemistry, but even if you’re looking for a job in another field, the analytical skills you gained in chemistry are helpful. Chemistry applies to the food industry, retail sales, transportation, art, homemaking… really any type of work you can name.

10. Chemistry is fun! There are lots of interesting chemistry projects you can do using common everyday materials. Chemistry projects don’t just go boom. They can glow in the dark, change colors, produces bubbles and change states.