Why Choose This Course?
What fuels the future, keeps medicines safe and effective, and drives technological innovation? Chemistry ATAR Year 12 explores the principles that govern matter, energy and chemical change, helping students understand how chemistry contributes to solving local and global challenges.
Through practical investigations and problem-solving, students examine the behaviour of substances at the molecular level and develop an appreciation of the role chemistry plays in fields such as medicine, environmental management, manufacturing and energy production. This course provides a strong foundation for further study in science, engineering and health-related disciplines.
Investigate dynamic chemical systems and the factors that influence chemical equilibrium. Explore acids, bases and buffer systems, and examine their importance in biological, environmental and industrial contexts. Students also study redox reactions and electrochemical processes, developing an understanding of how these reactions underpin technologies such as batteries, corrosion prevention and water treatment.
Explore the structure, properties and reactions of carbon-based compounds that are fundamental to life and modern industry. Students investigate hydrocarbons and key organic functional groups, analyse reaction pathways, and examine how chemists design and synthesise products such as fuels, pharmaceuticals and polymers. Spectroscopic techniques are used to identify unknown substances and evaluate chemical processes.
Skills Developed
Develop advanced laboratory and analytical skills through practical investigations and experimental design. Learn to interpret chemical data, analyse reaction pathways, apply mathematical and scientific reasoning, and evaluate evidence to solve complex problems. Students strengthen their ability to communicate scientific ideas clearly and accurately using appropriate chemical language and conventions.
Potential Careers
Chemical Engineer, Pharmacist, Forensic Scientist, Environmental Scientist, Industrial Chemist, Toxicologist, Materials Scientist, Biotechnologist, Research Scientist, Food Scientist.
Study Options
Bachelor of Science (Chemistry), Chemical Engineering, Pharmacy, Environmental Science, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Forensic Science, Medicine and Health Sciences.
Pre-requisites
A minimum C Grade in Year 11 Chemistry ATAR
Ms Kerry-Anne Randall
Head of Science
Kerry.Randall@cewa.edu.au