Master of Chemistry

The Master of Chemistry at the University of Tasmania is for people who want to work as chemists, not just study chemistry. Over two years you take advanced coursework in analytical, organic, physical and inorganic chemistry, then spend a substantial chunk of your degree on a research project supervised by an academic. That project is the centrepiece — you design experiments, collect and interpret data, and write up your findings the way a working scientist does.

How the degree is structured

Australian master's degrees are usually one to two years full time. This one runs for two years, split into semesters, with each unit of study carrying a set number of credit points. You need to pass a set number of credit points to graduate. The first part of the degree is coursework; the later part is dominated by your research thesis or capstone project. Some students choose to extend the research component if they are heading towards a PhD.

What you actually do

You spend time in laboratories — real ones, with instruments you will meet again in industry or a research institute. You learn to run and troubleshoot analytical equipment, purify compounds, interpret spectra, and keep the kind of records that stand up to scrutiny. Because the degree is research-heavy, you also learn how to read the literature critically, plan a project, manage your time, and present your work to people who will ask hard questions.

Who it suits

This suits someone with a chemistry or related science bachelor degree who wants more depth, or who is considering a research career and wants a taste of it before committing to a doctorate. It also works for people already in a lab job who want to move into a more senior or specialised role. The University of Tasmania has strong links to industry and research organisations in the state, and chemistry graduates are needed in mining, agriculture, food, environmental monitoring, pharmaceuticals and education. If you are an international student, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, and the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream may let you stay and work after you finish. Confirm the current rules on the official page.

• Analytical chemist in environmental testing, mining or food quality laboratories
• Research assistant or research officer in universities and CSIRO-style organisations
• Quality control or quality assurance chemist in pharmaceutical or manufacturing companies
• Formulation chemist in cosmetics, paints, adhesives or agricultural chemicals
• Laboratory manager or senior technician in hospital, pathology or government labs
• Chemistry teacher or tutor (with further teaching qualification)
• Technical sales or support for scientific instrument companies
• Further study towards a PhD and a research career