Chemistry is a fundamental aspect of our world and heavily contributes to many modern conveniences we enjoy today. These include over-the-counter medication, electronic devices, and even food production cycles.
Chemistry is a fundamental aspect of our world and heavily contributes to many modern conveniences we enjoy today. These include over-the-counter medication, electronic devices and even food production cycles.
It is because of this that chemistry is also referred to as the ‘central science’ as it overlaps with other scientific disciplines such as physics, biology, mathematics, earth science and more. Chemists can be found in many distinguished industries for this reason such as food sciences, chemical engineering and biotechnology among others.
In particular, petrochemical experts and sustainability chemists are becoming highly demanded in Malaysia. This is because Malaysia has committed itself to the climate change battle and targets a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions of 45% unconditionally by the year 2030.
Universiti Teknologi Petronas (UTP) offers its
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Applied Chemistry that allows students to hone their understanding of chemistry principles and play their part in building a better world for decades to come.
What is the difference between pure chemistry and applied chemistry?
Pure chemistry is primarily focused on expanding our understanding of chemical properties. In contrast, applied chemistry aims to take that knowledge and channel it into creating useful materials that are beneficial to society.
UTP’s Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Applied Chemistry guides its students when learning about the properties of substances and how they can be applied in everyday life. This includes picking up three essential skills needed by chemistry graduates to excel in the modern world, such as:
A strong foundation in chemistry principles
The field of chemistry is a broad discipline with delineations in organic, inorganic and physical chemistry among others. Students enrolled in UTP’s Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Applied Chemistry are guided towards an in-depth understanding of multiple areas of chemistry.
The extensive nature of the curriculum allows students to explore their options for further specialisation later down the line, which will be crucial when selecting an industry to work in after graduating.
For example, Malaysia launched its
National OGSE Industry Blueprint in 2021 which outlines initiatives to elevate the local industry to international standards, including considerations towards sustainable practices to ensure industrial longevity.
UTP offers a core specialisation in petrochemistry that enables graduates to gain the necessary skills needed to excel in the oil and gas industry as well as other subjects that will open the door to many other industries.
Complementary practical skills
The heart of applied chemistry is about using chemistry principles to solve real-world practical problems. That is why competent applied chemists must hone their soft skills alongside their understanding of chemistry to find the best solutions depending on context.
UTP provides a safe and authentic environment for students to foster practical chemistry skills.
Students will also be regularly exposed to situations that hone their teamwork skills, learn how to facilitate group discussion as well as nurture core business concepts that will prove useful when pitching innovative solutions to their clientele.
UTP has units such as Professional Communication Skills, Entrepreneurship and Community Engagement Project that prepare students to excel upon entering the workplace with the necessary mindset.
Understanding sustainable practices
In response to the ongoing climate crisis, Malaysia is striving to adopt more sustainable production cycles and improve its ecological footprint. Applied chemists play an integral role in building sustainable practices that are both practical and comprehensive.
For example, applied chemists are involved in cleaning up pollution (also known as remediation), which involves the treatment of waste streams (end-of-the-pipe treatment), cleaning environmental spills and removal of other releases from contaminated areas.
Applied chemists are also in charge of overseeing production cycles to minimise waste production and ensure safe and proper disposal. With many businesses aiming for carbon neutrality, UTP’s applied chemistry course produces graduates that are highly valued in the workplace.
It is for this reason that UTP offers a core specialisation which includes subjects like Green Processes and Products, Sustainable Water Management and New Energy to ensure students are prepared to tackle new-age problems with innovative and climate-friendly solutions.
With seasoned lecturers and a holistic curriculum, UTP is devoted to producing competent applied chemistry graduates who are prepared to excel in the industry.
For more information about UTP’s courses, click here and kickstart your journey into the world of applied chemistry.
