Chemistry

Chemistry is a popular college major. Many colleges and universities currently offer bachelor's degree programs approved by the American Chemical Society (ACS), and many of the graduates of these programs are awarded a bachelor's in a physical science. The ACS also approves master's degree programs and doctoral programs.

Chemistry grew out of an older field known as alchemy, which attempted to develop techniques for transmuting base metals into precious metals such as gold, or for creating an elixir of life that would restore youth and confer longevity. Modern research and development in the field of chemistry pursue much more diverse goals, making vital contributions to the United States economy. Chemical discoveries help solve problems in diagnosing and treating disease, cleaning up the environment, generating and conserving energy, inventing new materials for manufacturers, sustaining agriculture and food production, solving crimes, and defending the nation. Chemical research and development are responsible for about 20 percent of U.S. patents.

The United States leads the world in chemistry research, publishing more technical articles on the subject than any other single nation. When chemistry researchers worldwide cite publications in their field, roughly half the papers they footnote are the work of American chemists (or of foreign chemists working here). One reason for this dominance is the multiple funding sources that finance chemical research in the United States, including industry, federal, and state agencies, foundations, and universities. The research community here also is very open to collaborating with other scientists, technicians, and engineers across disciplines and across international borders. The U.S. scientific culture encourages investigators to do independent work early in their careers and creates few barriers to mobility between academic institutions.

Approximately 87,700 people work as chemists in the United States, and about 8,100 work as materials scientists, a related discipline. More than 70,300 chemical technicians are currently employed. Chemical engineers, who number about 33,900, are not engaged in doing chemical research as much as applying the principles of chemistry to solve problems. Most of the 26,700 postsecondary chemistry teachers do research as part of their jobs, as well as teaching.

Many chemists and chemical technicians work in postsecondary institutions, where they teach and do research. Others work in industry and government. Very few chemists and chemical technicians are self-employed as consultants or entrepreneurs.