What is Applied Chemistry
What is Applied Chemistry?
The field of applied chemistry focuses on applying the theories and principles of chemistry to practical problems, finding out the chemical properties of materials, and developing new materials. As with pure chemistry, which is aimed at enhancing knowledge within the field, applied chemistry uses theories to answer specific questions or solve real-world problems. Applied chemistry is essentially putting knowledge into something to modify it better. As a result of its role in environmental problems and contributions to developing new materials, applied chemistry has attracted the attention of scientists lately.
The course of applied chemistry deals with several different chemical fields. This field works with various materials, such as metal compounds, inorganic and organic compounds, proteins, polymers, etc.
It consists of three major fields, namely:
1. Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry
2. Physical Chemistry and Inorganic Chemistry
3. Biotechnology and Chemical Engineering
The students are encouraged to master fundamentals and advanced methodologies and be involved in ground-breaking studies in these areas to truly understand what is applied chemistry. The course provides researchers who are involved in the development of applied chemistry with the knowledge and technologies of chemistry.
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Eligibility Criteria (UG and PG) of Applied Chemistry
For Applied Chemistry Undergraduate Course
Class 12 or equivalent with PCM/B.
A minimum of 50% in class 12 or equivalent (may vary depending on the university).
Sit for the university-specific entrance test.
For Applied Chemistry Postgraduate Course
Minimum of 50% marks in a bachelor’s degree with chemistry as a subject.
Sit for entrance exams such as CUCET, AIEEA, etc.
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Entrance Exam for Applied Chemistry
Some universities do not require entrance exams for applicants pursuing bachelor's or master's degrees in applied chemistry, the admission is based on merit. In most cases, students are only required to meet the university's and the course's eligibility requirements. Some universities require students to take the following exams.
CUCET - The Central Universities Common Entrance Test is a national level entrance test for admission to various integrated/undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs at several central and state universities across India. Every year, the National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts this exam.
ICAR AIEEA (UG & PG) - the All India Entrance Examination for Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programmes in Agricultural and Allied Sciences.
Scope of Applied Chemistry
There is a wealth of opportunities available to people who are interested in knowing what is applied chemistry and how to further one’s career in it. Following M.Sc in Applied Chemistry, students can pursue a career in the following fields.
Analytical chemist
Pharmacologist
Clinical scientist, biochemistry
Research scientist (physical sciences)
Academic researcher
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Course Subjects in Applied Chemistry
In order to understand what is applied chemistry, one has to know how it is sub-divided into various sub-disciplines. Some of the major areas of study are polymer chemistry, physical chemistry, materials chemistry, environmental chemistry, environmental chemistry, biotechnology, chemical engineering, etc. Polymer chemistry and medicinal chemistry are major parts of applied chemistry.
Applied Analytical Chemistry
Applied analytical chemistry involves studying the composition, structure, and qualitative and quantitative aspects of matter. Different organizations use this branch to start their processes, including the food industry, pharmaceutical industries, etc.
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Medicinal Chemistry
This is another significant branch of applied chemistry that focuses mainly on organic chemistry and pharmacology. The field helps develop new drugs through the research and development process. Medicinal Chemistry allows a chemist to apply his chemistry skills to the process of synthesizing new drugs.
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Geochemistry
This sub-branch of applied chemistry is a powerful exploration tool for detecting abnormally high levels of chemical elements associated with mineral or hydrocarbon deposits. Geochemistry is also used to determine the extent of regional mineral deposits. Geochemists use geochemical analysis on natural objects, such as volcanic gas, dust, water, rocks & sediments, air, etc.
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Petrochemistry
This is a branch of applied chemistry that deals with converting crude oil and natural gas into useful materials. Petrochemistry has become a noteworthy field in the modern world. Petrochemical experts are hired to produce many daily products, like cosmetics, medicines, appliances, plastics, wind turbines, solar panels, etc.
Biotechnology
The most advanced form of applied chemistry today is biotechnology. In this field, living bodies' organs and cells are used to make different products. There are several applications for biotechnology, such as in agriculture, environmental protection, healthcare, industrial processes, etc.
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Careers in Applied Chemistry
If you have a passion for applied chemistry, you can become a Scientist, Writer, Geochemist, Nanotechnologist, Forensic scientist, Materials scientist, Chemical engineer or Toxicologist. By choosing any of these options, you are able to stay on the cutting edge of innovation and can make a difference in society.
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Upcoming trends in Applied Chemistry
Applied chemistry plays a key role and examines how chemistry is used in today's society. The study of applied chemistry focuses on areas like drug development, computer-designed molecules, nanotechnology, bio-variations, etc. An applied chemistry degree can open a world of possibilities, and you can see upcoming trends in the fields that will allow you to work in research, nanotechnology, making capsules, molecular and cell factories, academia, publishing, and real-life situations, such as the development of new drugs, etc.
Job Profiles and Top Recruiters
Some of the job profiles for Applied Chemistry are:
Job Profile | Job Description |
Analytical Chemist | A chemical analyst is someone who records and identifies the nature of different chemical substances and reactions. They analyze and interpret the data using a variety of software, techniques, and equipment while ensuring it's accurate and conforms to guidelines. Analytical Chemists are employed in private and government laboratories Laboratories, research groups, chemical companies, etc. |
Laboratory Supervisor | Laboratory Supervisors are responsible for ensuring that a Chemical Laboratory is properly maintained in every way. It basically entails ensuring the availability and orderliness of the Laboratory materials, as well as timely upgrades. Supervisors are required at every organization with a Science Laboratory, be it a school, college, or professional environment. |
Production Chemist | They oversee the production of goods requiring chemical processes and reactions at manufacturing plants. Products they oversee include pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food processing. They ensure the quality and consistency of production and are usually known as production supervisors. |
Toxicologist | This field of study examines the effects that chemicals have on people and the environment. Toxicologists study toxic waste, pollutants, pesticides and other substances in laboratories as well as in the field. In addition, they do basic research, conduct product safety reviews, as well as work for government agencies. |
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Top Recruiters in the Field of Applied Physics
- Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
- Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO)
- BASF
- Genomatica
- National Thermal Power Corporation
- Atomic Research Centres
- Regional Research Laboratories
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Average Salaries
Applied chemistry salaries vary depending on the specialization, expertise, and the company for which you will work for. The following is the average income for various job profiles:
Job Profile | Salaries Per Annum |
Analytical Chemist | Rs. 3-4 LPA |
Laboratory Supervisor | Rs. 4-5 LPA |
Production Chemist | Rs. 5-6 LPA |
Toxicologist | Rs. 6-7 LPA |
Required Skill Set for Applied Chemistry
A master's or doctoral degree is required, along with strong analytical, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills. Other important skills required are:
Mathematical/numerical ability
Time management and organization
Research and Presentation
IT and Technology
Monitoring/maintaining records and data.
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Course Curriculum for Applied Chemistry
Applied Chemistry course cover topics such as:
Inorganic Chemistry
Organic Chemistry
Physical Chemistry
Industrial Chemistry
Natural products chemistry
Polymer Chemistry
Bioprocess Technology
Computational methods in chemistry
Chemistry of Nanomaterials
Industrial Electrochemistry
Polymer Chemistry
If you plan to major in applied chemistry, make sure you understand the basic concepts fully and demonstrate a high level of interest. This course provides numerous job opportunities in a variety of industries that utilize Chemistry in a real-life setting in some way or another.
Good luck!
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Author- The author of this article is Yashodhra Arora, who is a Counselling Psychologist, with extensive experience in Career Counselling for high school students.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The M.Sc in Applied Chemistry covers subjects like Inorganic and Organic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Molecular Spectroscopy, Organic Chemical Technology, Polymer Chemistry, etc.
Applied chemistry focuses on using the theories and principles of chemistry to solve practical problems, finding out the chemical properties of materials, and developing new materials.
The variety of laundry detergents on the market and oil refineries are both examples of applied chemistry.
There are numerous options available after studying Applied Chemistry. You can work as a Biotechnologist, Forensic Scientist, Chemical Engineer, Analytical chemist, Nanotechnologist, etc.
Few colleges offer B.Sc Applied Chemistry degree courses, but for better career opportunities it is always recommended to pursue an M.Sc in Applied Chemistry.