Chemistry is a challenging intellectual pursuit and a dominant force in shaping our civilization. Chemistry places strong emphasis on an understanding of the structures and properties of individual atoms and molecules, and on using this understanding to interpret and predict the behavior of matter. Many of the concepts of physics, and the methods of mathematics, are basic to chemistry. Chemistry is of fundamental importance to many other subjects including astrophysics, biological sciences, environmental science, geology, materials science, and medical sciences. These and other aspects of the subject are reflected in the courses offered, and the programs recommended by the Department.

The Department has made extensive changes to its course and program offerings in the last few years. These changes included a revision of first year courses, substantial modifications to later-year courses, and the introduction of updated specialist programs in Biological Chemistry, Materials Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, and Synthetic & Catalytic Chemistry. Opportunity also exists to undertake a Nanoscience minor in collaboration with the National University of Singapore.