Chemistry is the fundamental scientific discipline that examines the nature of matter and its ever-evolving transformations. It serves as a catalyst for advancements in various fields, such as materials science, pharmaceutical development, sensor technology, and alternative energy exploration.
Studying Chemistry
By pursuing Chemistry, you will not only acquire in-depth knowledge of the subject matter, but also hone a wide range of valuable skills, including numerical and analytical proficiency, research acumen, and the ability to solve complex problems.
Major Highlights
- Solid training in major areas of chemistry
- Core courses covering physical, inorganic, organic, and analytical chemistry
- Wide selection of electives in interdisciplinary areas, including:
- Chemical biology, computational chemistry, environmental chemistry, interfacial science, materials chemistry, and medicinal chemistry
Curricula
To cater for students’ different needs, two curricula in Chemistry are offered:
| Major in Chemistry (96 credits) |
| > | Allows students to broaden their education in other areas |
| Major in Chemistry (Intensive) (144 credits) |
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| For students who wish to specialise in chemistry Accreditation: The Intensive Major has been accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), UK |
Career Prospects Our graduates are proficient in the principles and experimental skills of chemistry, and are well-versed in the current development of chemical sciences. The transferable skills acquired through theoretical and experimental investigations in sciences can be easily applied to many aspects of life. |  |
Hear from Our Student
Pak Shing Billy POON
BSc graduate (Major in Chemistry (Intensive))
Patent Attorney Trainee – GRST Holdings Limited
‘HKU Chemistry ignited my passion and honed my analytical skills through rigorous training and diverse research opportunities. This has provided me with a strong foundation in chemistry that is currently propelling my achievements in my professional journey.’
HSU Ka Yuen
BSc graduate (Major in Chemistry (Intensive))
Radiochemist Assistant – St. Teresa's Hospital
'Pursuing a chemistry intensive degree in HKU was indeed challenging, but the knowledge and skills that I acquired throughout the 4-year curriculum were invaluable. The intensive program is tailored for those who wish to develop their career in chemistry-related industries or even pursue a PhD in the future. Most of the chemistry knowledge and technical skills that I learnt in this programme were practical and realistic in society nowadays, in which I can really apply them in my workplace.
The Department of Chemistry offers a wide range of courses. After acquiring essential knowledge and skills as a good foundation in our first two years of study, we were given numerous research opportunities and laboratory sessions to really “get our hands dirty”. For me, I am very grateful that I can have the opportunity to start a research topic during my final year on complex soft material. I personally found this step-by-step learning experience very suitable for those who have a strong interest in chemistry or would like to sharpen their chemistry sense but don’t know where to start. Don’t worry, with your passion and determination toward chemistry, along with the well-planned curriculum and support offered by the department, I am sure that you can enjoy yourself learning chemistry in the coming four years and become a successful and knowledgeable person upon graduation.'
LEUNG Wing Tung Christy
BSc graduate (Major in Chemistry (Intensive))
Laboratory Officer – Hong Kong Productivity Council
'The Intensive Major in Chemistry curriculum (aka HKU RSC Accredited Chemistry Programme) has equipped me with a wide array of chemistry knowledge and skills through a variety of well-designed courses covering theory, laboratory skills, internship and research experience, etc. The programme has also given me a precious opportunity to join an internship outside HKU. This internship opportunity allowed me to apply my knowledge while picking up new skills through hands-on experience in the workplace. The opportunity for doing undergraduate research in a research group enabled me to acquire critical thinking and problem-solving skills. All these experiences have nurtured me to become an independent person. The fruitful experience I gained here is very conducive to my future. I would like to express my gratitude to HKU Department of Chemistry for encouraging me to explore different areas of chemistry.