Chemistry

Study the structure, composition, behaviour and energetics of substances.

Overview

BSc in the field of Physical Sciences (Chemistry)

Chemistry is often considered the central science because it bridges physical (physics, astronomy, earth science) and life (biology, zoology, botany, ecology) sciences. 

Chemistry investigates the composition, structure, and properties of matter. This knowledge is essential to understanding the physical world around us, as well as the living world. Chemistry is used in a wide variety of fields, including medicine, engineering, materials, forensics, agriculture and environmental science.

This is a 3-year undergraduate degree which focuses on the fundamental aspects of chemistry including the different branches of chemistry; Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry and Inorganic Chemistry.  It provides students with a strong foundation in the principles and practice of chemistry and its application in the world. Our graduates are trained to think critically and are employed in a variety of industries. 

Career Opportunities

Some industries that employ Chemistry Students:

  • Chemical: Chemists develop new products, improve manufacturing processes, and ensure product quality (e.g. plastics, detergents, cosmetics, paint, electronics, and materials for home construction)
  • Pharmaceutical: Chemists develop, synthesise and classify new drugs, improve drug delivery systems, and test the safety and efficacy of new drugs.
  • Biotechnology: Chemists help to develop biocatalysts and biomolecules for a range of applications in agriculture, environment and industry.
  • Food and beverage: Chemists improve the preparation, processing, storage of processed food and create new artificial flavours.
  • Environmental: Chemists develop new methods for recycling materials, conserving, assess the short- and long-term risks of contaminants in the environment.
  • Education: Chemists can become teachers.

Curriculum

The courses you require for this BSc degree are outlined in the curriculum plan.

Entry Requirements

APS 42+

English Home Language OR First Additional Language Level 5

Mathematics Level 6

Physical Science Level 5

Wait-listing

Applicants with 40-41 points may be wait-listed, subject to place availability.

National Benchmark Test

All Faculty of Science applicants must write the National Benchmark Tests (NBT) before being considered for admission. There are two tests. The Academic and Quantitative Literacy Test and the Mathematics Test. Your test results are used in addition to your Grade 12 results to identify students who may need additional support during their studies.

University Application Process

  • The Student Enrolment Centre at Wits handles all student applications.
  • Please click here for an overview of the application process. 
  • Check the admission requirements for your degree. Check if any additional selection requirements apply. 
  • Submit your application, required documentation and application fee before the closing date.
  • Once you have applied, an admissions consultant will be assigned to your application.
  • Applicants can monitor the progress of their applications via the Self Service Portal.
  • If you are an international applicant and/or have a foreign qualification, please click here.

Compliance with the minimum requirements does not guarantee a place at the University. The University has a specific number of places for first year undergraduates, approved by the Department of Higher Education and Training. Final selection is made subject to the availability of places, academic results and other entry requirements where applicable.

University Fees and Funding

Click here to see the current average tuition fees for the first year of study. The Fees website also provides information about the payment of fees and closing dates for fees payments. Once you have applied you will be able to access the fees estimator on the student self-service portal. 

The Financial aid office provides information on student funding and scholarships. University-funded Scholarships include Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships, University Entrance Scholarships, Equality Scholarships, Sports Scholarships and National Olympiad winner awards. For information about NSFAS funding, please visit the NSFAS website. External bursaries portal: The Bursaries South Africa website provides a comprehensive list of bursaries in South Africa.

Wits Plus applicants: terms of payment are in accordance with University regulations, and students are not eligible for University bursaries/NSFAS or residential accommodation.