Studies & Degrees in Organic Chemistry

Choose where you would like to study Organic Chemistry:

Organic chemistry is a branch of chemistry that deals with carbon compounds. This is a very interesting branch of chemistry, especially the laboratory part. You can say that it is a creative science. In taking up Organic Chemistry you will learn about the chemical structure of the different elements in our surrounding. A simple thing like soap and how its chemical structure can attract dirt and stain is just an example of the many discoveries and knowledge that you gain in studying this field.

Nomenclature or naming of compounds is another area of Organic Chemistry that you will learn. Certain elements in the chemical structure of a compound will affect its nomenclature. For example, an organic compound can be name an alcohol if it contains the hydroxyl group (OH) in its chemical structure.

Application of Organic Chemistry in everyday life can be very interesting. Having knowledge about the chemical structure of the things that we use on a daily basis will help us make a more intelligent way of choosing products. Though Organic Chemistry can be a complex subject matter it can help you with the analysis of simple things like what is the difference between a liquid soap and a bar soap, a margarine and a butter or an isopropyl and ethyl alcohol.

Also part of Organic Chemistry is balancing chemical equations which can be complicated at times. It is a vital part since a chemical equation will show you the exact amount of chemicals needed to form a new substance or compound. Think of it like a recipe from a cookbook where you will need the exact amount of ingredients to make that delectable dish.

Another area of studying organic is the laboratory part. The lab part is the actual application process of making compounds. Learning how to make your own distilled water, vinegar or even soap are some of the basic things that they teach in laboratory part of Organic Chemistry. Of course, after the basic stuff, there will be other more complicated compounds to make. It is a great way to apply all the things that was discussed in the theoretical part of the study. Actual performance of the different chemical reactions learned on the lecture part will make understanding Organic Chemistry easier and better.

Depending on your knowledge and skill as an organic chemist, there are many opportunities to choose from if you want to pursue a career in Organic Chemistry. Pharmaceutical companies are one of them. Researching and making new drugs to cure illnesses can be a rewarding career. Available to us now are new medicines to cure illnesses because of this field. Other careers in the industrial sector like paint and petroleum companies and other companies that manufacture consumer-based products like soap, toothpaste and shampoos are also available and is as challenging as well. Being a researcher or a scientist in the field of Organic Chemistry can be enjoyable. Impart your knowledge by becoming a teacher, but the competition in this industry can be stiff.

To be successful in this career, attention to details is a must. Mixing contaminated chemicals can be dangerous, not to mention it will affect the product result. As a chemist, research and development is always part of the job and being creative, discipline, and innovative are all necessary to achieve your goals. There are endless discoveries that you can make; new molecules, new compounds or chemical structures, the possibilities are limitless. Organic chemistry is an art of creating, synthesizing, and developing new applications for molecules that contain carbons. Developing and constantly updating your skills will help you to be successful.