Chemistry is evident in everyday life. Understanding molecules, their shape, structure and how they are made, is the linchpin for all the sciences: molecules are what we are made of, what we eat and drink, and what much of the world around us is composed of. Molecules are the messengers in the body, and even the thought processes of the brain require the production and transfer of molecules.
A qualification in the chemical sciences can open the door to a wide range of rewarding careers. Chemical scientists are found in a variety of exciting jobs both in and outside the laboratory. Their scientific knowledge is in demand in many different areas. Research shows that chemistry graduates are better paid over a lifetime than graduates of almost any other discipline. They earn on average around £190,000 more over a working lifetime than those without a degree. Click here for more information from the Royal Society of Chemistry.
Hear the experts' views.
Read more about the available chemistry degrees
Our environment is wonderful and fascinating; but it is also under threat from climate change, biodiversity loss and resource depletion. Environmental science is a vital and vibrant subject that explores the complexities of the natural environment and our relationship with it. In studying this subject, you will gain the scientific knowledge and skills required to understand fundamental environmental patterns and processes and to address local and global environmental issues. You will start to understand the problems we face in understanding our environment and in managing it sustainably, as well as developing your scientific, interpretive and creative thinking skills
A qualification in environmental science provides a breadth and depth of understanding of scientific, technical and environmental issues. Environmental scientists are in demand in areas such as:
Hear the experts' views.
Read more about the environmental science degrees available
Studying physics will change you as a person. In studying physics you will encounter some of the deepest and most far-reaching concepts that have ever entered human consciousness. Knowledge gathered over many centuries will be presented, along with its applications. Fact will follow fact, useful theory will succeed useful theory. You will begin to appreciate how major discoveries have radically changed our attitude to ourselves, our natural environment, and our place in the Universe.
A degree in physics means you will have a solid foundation in a broad and technical subject, allowing you to specialise in many different areas from space science to computer science and from electronics to climate modeling.
The Institute of Physics web site contains information on careers in physics including case studies with young professionals.
Hear the experts' views.
If you have any questions, prior to applying, not answered in our FAQ's please email OpenPlus@open.ac.uk.
If you are an HE institution and are interested in finding out more about OpenPlus please email cmp@open.ac.uk.