- Where you can study
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Manawatū campus (Palmerston North)
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International students
International students are not New Zealand citizens or residents.
- Open to international students on campus in New Zealand
Specialise in Chemistry for your Bachelor of Science at Massey
Chemistry for the AI age: Discover molecules. Test new ideas. Shape the future.
Chemistry is entering a new era. Addressing challenges in sustainability, energy, health and medicine will require new molecules and materials. Artificial intelligence, machine learning, computational modelling and large chemical datasets are transforming how chemists design new molecules, generate hypotheses and accelerate chemical discovery.
At the same time, practical chemical knowledge and expertise remain essential for asking critical questions, designing experiments, making and characterising molecules and interpreting data and results.
At Massey, you will build a strong foundation in chemistry while progressively developing the skills to use emerging computational tools. You will learn to evaluate their reliability, limitations and appropriate use in scientific research.
Chemistry is relevant, stimulating and rewarding. Your lecturers are passionate, engaging, internationally recognised researchers who use experimental, computational and data-driven approaches to tackle scientific challenges.
Learn the fundamentals
Massey's Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) will give you a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of chemistry and how they underpin life and the world around us. You will learn key theories and concepts, understand why they matter and apply them in the laboratory to synthesise compounds and determine their structure and composition.
As you progress, you will also be introduced to digital and AI-enabled tools used by modern chemists. These may include computational modelling, chemical databases, machine learning for chemical and spectroscopic data analysis, literature analysis, AI-assisted molecular design, reaction prediction and retrosynthesis and generative AI tools for scientific problem-solving.
You will learn to use these tools as a chemist: assessing whether predictions make chemical sense, recognising their limitations and testing them through laboratory experiments in synthesis, spectroscopy, analytical chemistry, physical chemistry and microscopy and imaging.
Fundamental chemical knowledge, practical laboratory experience and digital capability will prepare you for careers in modern chemistry and provide a foundation for continued learning throughout your career.
Real world problem solving
Chemistry students have opportunities to work alongside our internationally recognised researchers on real-world problems. Our students have
- developed porous materials that can capture carbon dioxide
- worked with veterinarians on materials for controlled anaesthetic release
- applied machine-learning methods to spectroscopic analysis of forage feeds and pasture types
- synthesised new pharmaceuticals.
Chemical knowledge, critical thinking and problem-solving skills can help you contribute to work on climate change, water quality, sustainable resource use, health and medicine and the discovery of new molecules and materials.
Get connected
You will have opportunities to build industry connections and gain experience with organisations such as Fonterra, Hill Laboratories, and AsureQuality. Chemistry students can also pursue summer internships with research groups on campus, local companies, and Public Research Organisations.
A Bachelor of Science in Chemistry is a good fit if you:
- enjoy problem solving and have an analytical mind
- are curious about the fundamental nature of matter and the world around you
- enjoy experimental science, synthesis, and discovering how things work
- want adaptable scientific skills that will remain valuable as technology evolves.
Planning information
Planning information
If you study full-time, in your first year you’ll take eight 15-credit courses, making a total of 120 credits.
If you wish to study over two semesters, you should aim for 60 credits per semester. You may be able to take some courses at summer school. Make sure you include courses that are prerequisites for the next level of courses you wish to study.
The first year structure is designed to provide you with a broad knowledge and skill set which will equip you to go on to more advanced courses in the second and third years.
You must pass at least 90 credits from the BSc Schedule A, including any compulsory courses, in your first 120 credits of study towards the Bachelor of Science.
Chemistry has similar first year core courses to several other majors available in the Bachelor of Science, allowing you to change your major before your second year. Changing your major may incur an increase in completion time.
100-level courses
Take these in any order:
- 247113 Science and Sustainability for Science
- 161111 Applied Statistics or 161122 Statistics
- 160101 Calculus or 160102 Algebra or 160105 Methods of Mathematics
- 123104 Chemistry for Biological Systems
- 123105 Chemistry and the Physical World.
Plus choose three 100 level elective courses. One of these electives must be from the BSc Schedule A courses. The remaining two electives can be from a subject area other than Science.
200-level courses in the major
- 123201 Chemical Energetics
- 123208 Chemical Analysis
- 123207 Molecular Chemistry
- 123271 Molecules to Materials.
300-level courses in the major
- 123308 Advanced Organic Chemistry
- 123307 Advanced Inorganic Chemistry
- 141395 Food Chemistry
- 123305 Contemporary Topics in Chemistry.
Minors
Completing a minor is optional. Minors increase the breadth of your degree. They give you extra knowledge, attributes and capabilities.
A minor must be in a different subject from your major.
A Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) with a minor
You may choose a minor from any university undergraduate degree that has recognised minors. If the minor is from another undergraduate degree, the regulations of that programme will apply.
Some BSc minors that are particularly compatible with chemistry include those shown below. Timetabling will prioritise these combinations to minimise clashes.
A Chemistry minor (for students who are studying a different degree)
If you are not studying a Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) and wish to complete a minor in Chemistry see the BSc regulations for the requirements of this minor.
Official regulations
To understand what you need to study and must complete to graduate read the official rules and regulations for this qualification.
You should read these together with all other relevant Statutes and Regulations of the University including the General Regulations for Undergraduate Degrees, Undergraduate Diplomas, Undergraduate Certificates, Graduate Diplomas and Graduate Certificates.
Returning students
For returning students, there may be changes to the majors and minors available and the courses you need to take. Go to the section called ‘Transitional Provisions’ in the Regulations to find out more.
In some cases the qualification or specialisation you enrolled in may no longer be taking new enrolments, so may not appear on these web pages. To find information on the regulations for these qualifications go to the Massey University Calendar.
Please contact us through the Get advice button on this page if you have any questions.
Courses you can enrol in
Courses you can enrol in
Core courses for the Bachelor of Science
As well as the specialisation courses listed below, this qualification has core courses that you will need to complete.
Bachelor of Science core courses
Chemistry courses
200-level courses
Course code: 123201 Chemical Energetics 15 credits
Molecular processes are inherently random and yet we can meaningfully predict the yield or the rate of a chemical reaction. In this course we discover that this apparent paradox is explained by the idea that although single molecules behave randomly, large numbers of molecules and atoms do behave in a predictable manner. We develop the principles of thermodynamics and kinetics from this idea and apply these principles to physical, chemical, biochemical and industrial processes. The lab course focuses on broadly applicable skills in measurement, analysing and presenting physical chemistry data, understanding sources of uncertainty in physical measurements and written communication skills.
View full course detailsCourse code: 123207 Molecular Chemistry 15 credits
The world is built up from molecules. Viewing systems - from the human body to the newest satellite - as composites of molecules is a powerful approach to understanding the world. In this course we will deconstruct seemingly complex systems into their simpler molecular components. We will understand their structures and develop ways they can be synthesized from the ground up. This is a lab course focussed on making molecules which will build synthetic skills.
View full course detailsCourse code: 123208 Chemical Analysis 15 credits
Determining the structure of matter and how much of it is present is the focus of analytical chemistry. In this course we introduce the chemical and physical principles that underpin modern analytical chemistry methods and illustrate how analytical chemistry plays a key role in fields such as forensic and environmental science. You will obtain hands-on experience with modern analytical instrumentation in the laboratory and use skills in handling chemicals and data analysis to solve problems in analytical chemistry. We develop skills in error analysis and scientific writing.
View full course detailsCourse code: 123271 Molecules to Materials 15 credits
The chemistry of materials under-pins all chemical processing industries. This course facilitates a fundamental understanding of aqueous solutions, organic, inorganic and polymer chemistry relevant to material science, including soft materials such as gels and colloids. The laboratory training develops skills in a range of synthesis, separation and analysis techniques relevant to materials chemistry.
View full course details300-level courses
Course code: 123305 Contemporary Topics in Chemistry 15 credits
We will discuss and analyse the grand challenges and breakthroughs of modern chemistry. This discussion will lead to an understanding of how and why chemistry is central to the most pressing global challenges. Topical questions will vary from year to year. You will learn how to critically evaluate sources of scientific information and present scientific and chemical concepts using different media and to a variety of audiences.
View full course detailsCourse code: 123307 Advanced Inorganic Chemistry 15 credits
This course focuses on the structure, properties and reactivity of inorganic compounds with a particular focus on transition metal complexes. The laboratory training develops expertise in a broad range of experimental techniques that relate to inorganic chemistry.
View full course detailsCourse code: 123308 Advanced Organic Chemistry 15 credits
This course focuses on recent trends and developments in the design and reactivity of organic compounds. It will introduce how a knowledge of organic reactions and mechanisms can be used to synthesise biologically relevant molecules, and will include organic and metal-based catalysis as well as heterocyclic chemistry. The laboratory training develops expertise in a range of organic chemistry experimental techniques.
View full course detailsCourse code: 123310 Advanced Concepts in Organic Chemistry 15 credits
Computational aspects related to organic chemistry. Structure, reactivity, synthesis, retrosynthesis, structure determination by analytical methods. Mechanism of organic reactions and chemistry of heterocyclic and main group elements. An emphasis on the application of organic reactions to engineer molecules of interest in the chemical, biochemical and pharmaceutical fields. Lectures are complemented by an intensive laboratory experience.
View full course detailsCourse code: 123331 Advanced Physical and Computational Chemistry 15 credits
This course applies quantum theory to molecular and atomic structure and spectroscopy. The use of symmetry in chemistry is explicitly treated. Statistical and dynamical theories are used to describe molecular behaviour and reactivity. Computational chemistry methodology is systematically applied to chemical systems. A course of practical work and a spectroscopy project complements the lectures.
View full course detailsCourse code: 123332 Advanced Topics in Chemistry 30 credits
A project in an area of chemistry aimed at preparation for postgraduate research in chemistry. A selection of modules (4 maximum) covering areas of Inorganic, Physical, Environmental, Analytical and Organic chemistry.
View full course detailsCourse code: 141395 Food Chemistry 15 credits
A practical approach to the physical, chemical, biochemical and functional properties of major and minor food constituents (water, proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, vitamins, minerals, pigments, flavours, toxins) and food groups (dairy, meat, eggs and plants). Chemical and biochemical reactions causing deterioration in foods and some methods of control. A laboratory course.
View full course detailsEntry requirements
Entry requirements
Admission to Massey
All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.
Specific requirements
There are no specific entry requirements for this programme outside of university admission regulations. However there is some expected background knowledge.
Expected high school preparation
Knowledge gained in the following NCEA subjects (or the equivalent in Cambridge International Examinations, International Baccalaureate, or similar) will give you the expected background knowledge to take this major.
- At least 16 credits in NCEA Level 2 Mathematics from the following list of standards: 91256, 91257, 91258, 91259, 91260, 91261, 91262, 91269.
- At least 14 credits in NCEA Level 3 Chemistry.
If it’s some time since you studied mathematics at school you can find out if you have the required background by taking this maths quiz.
English language requirements
To study this programme you must meet Massey University's English language standards.
English language skills
If you need help with your English language skills before you start university, see our English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses.
Can't meet the entry requirements?
The following pathways will prepare you for studying this major. If you have not studied NCEA Level 2 Mathematics (or equivalent) take one of the following courses first:
If you have not studied NCEA Level 3 Chemistry (or equivalent) take the following course first:
- 123103 Chemistry for Modern Sciences.
These courses (or equivalents) are available in the summer semester and will count towards credits in your degree.
If you need to do a course before you start your programme, there may be options for you in Summer School.
Fees and scholarships
Fees and scholarships
2027 tuition fees
- Domestic students: $8,925
- International students: $43,570
Tuition fees are estimates only. The exact fees charged will depend on which courses you select at the time of enrolment. The estimates are for full-time study (120 credits). Fees are in New Zealand dollars and include Goods and Services Tax (GST).
The estimates do not include the Student Services Fee. This fee is $1,236 for on-campus students and $984 for distance students for full-time study (120 credits). For more information about this fee and other fees you may need to pay, see non-tuition fees.
There may also be charges for things such as study resources, software, trips and contact workshops.
Course fees
You can view fees for the courses that make up your qualification on the course details pages.
Student loans (StudyLink)
You may be eligible for a student loan to help towards paying your fees.
Scholarships and awards
- Fonterra Massey University Māori Undergraduate Scholarship
- Massey University Academy of Sport First Year Scholarship
- Massey University Academy of Sport Returners Scholarships
- Massey University Undergraduate First Year Scholarship – School Leavers
- New to Massey University Undergraduate Science Scholarship
- Te Ihorei Scholarship
Careers and job opportunities
Careers and job opportunities
At Massey, you will develop fundamental chemical knowledge and practical laboratory expertise alongside skills in data analysis, computational chemistry and AI-enabled scientific tools. This combination will help you adapt as technologies and scientific careers evolve.
Companies and organisations in New Zealand and overseas employ chemistry graduates in roles ranging from hands-on laboratory science and advanced analytical work to environmental consulting, public policy, financial modelling and banking. Entrepreneurial opportunities also exist in scientific start-up companies developing technologies, materials, medicines, and analytical tools.
Career areas include:
- food and brewing
- environmental analysis and consulting
- pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries
- materials, coatings, and paints
- analytical chemistry and forensic science
- biotechnology
- scientific research and development
- secondary-school teaching
- scientific and technical consultancy
- finance and data-related roles
- emerging technology and start-up companies
Some pathways, such as teaching and advanced research, require further study or professional qualifications.
Skills for a changing workforce
A chemistry degree provides a foundation for a range of careers. As new tools and roles emerge, your ability to analyse evidence, learn new methods, and apply scientific knowledge to real-world problems will remain valuable.
Learn chemistry. Learn AI. Keep learning for life.
International students
International students
New Zealand is a great place to study. Massey University’s reputation is supported by our international rankings, accreditations and associations. We are rated five star plus by the QS World University Rankings.
Massey University has small class sizes, and our lecturers and staff are friendly and approachable.
As an international student, there are entry requirements that will apply to you. We recommend that you apply at least three months before your anticipated start date so your application can be processed in time. There are additional steps you will need to take. These include obtaining a visa and travel bookings if your study is to be in New Zealand.
Plan your courses
View your course options and plan your study using our course planner.
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