Chemistry is the science of what makes a habanero 10 times as hot as a jalapeño, why air becomes liquid at about -310°F, and how an ounce of gold can be stretched into a wire 50 miles long. That is to say, chemistry is the study of the properties, composition, and structure of substances and the changes they undergo when they combine or react under specified conditions.
The Chemistry program at MCC is great for students who want to study chemistry in a four-year program, fulfill their general education requirements, pursue healthcare and scientific majors, or expand their knowledge of this field.
Transfer
Want to pursue a bachelor’s degree? Save money by starting at MCC in manageable, small classes taught by renowned faculty. Our transfer pathways with Arizona universities help you achieve two goals: completing an associate’s degree while also staying on track to earn a bachelor’s degree at your transfer destination. MCC’s university partnerships throughout the nation assure your seamless transition toward a four-year degree.
A list of available transfer options for the Chemistry program
| At MCC, get an... |
Specialize in... |
Transfer to... |
To get a... |
Courses |
|
Associate in Science, Chemistry
| Chemistry Emphasis |
Arizona State University |
Chemistry
(Bachelor of Science) |
Pathway Map |
|
Arizona State University |
Chemistry (Environmental)
(Bachelor of Science) |
|
University of Arizona |
Chemistry
(Bachelor of Science) |
|
Northern Arizona University |
Chemistry ACS - Emphasis
(Bachelor of Science) |
|
Northern Arizona University |
Chemistry Advanced - Emphasis
(Bachelor of Science) |
Career Opportunities
Successful completion of the Chemistry program may lead to employment in a variety of different occupations and industries. Below are examples of related occupations with associated Maricopa County-based annual median wages*. Some occupations may require additional education or training. You can click on any occupation to view more detail regarding education level, wages, and employment information.
Develop usable, tangible products, using knowledge of biology, chemistry, or engineering. Solve problems related to materials, systems, or processes that interact with humans, plants, animals, microorganisms, or biological materials.
Typical Education Level
a Bachelor's degree
Hourly Median Wage
$42.47
Annual Median Wage
$88,347
Number of People Employed
1,813
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 6.1%
Design chemical plant equipment and devise processes for manufacturing chemicals and products, such as gasoline, synthetic rubber, plastics, detergents, cement, paper, and pulp, by applying principles and technology of chemistry, physics, and engineering.
Typical Education Level
a Bachelor's degree
Hourly Median Wage
$53.68
Annual Median Wage
$111,663
Number of People Employed
112
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 21.4%
Operate or tend equipment to control chemical changes or reactions in the processing of industrial or consumer products. Equipment used includes devulcanizers, steam-jacketed kettles, and reactor vessels.
Typical Education Level
a high school diploma or less
Hourly Median Wage
$16.36
Annual Median Wage
$34,047
Number of People Employed
323
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 21.1%
Conduct chemical and physical laboratory tests to assist scientists in making qualitative and quantitative analyses of solids, liquids, and gaseous materials for research and development of new products or processes, quality control, maintenance of environmental standards, and other work involving experimental, theoretical, or practical application of chemistry and related sciences.
Typical Education Level
an Associate degree
Hourly Median Wage
$20.15
Annual Median Wage
$41,914
Number of People Employed
586
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 14.2%
Conduct qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses or experiments in laboratories for quality or process control or to develop new products or knowledge.
Typical Education Level
a Bachelor's degree
Hourly Median Wage
$33.08
Annual Median Wage
$68,815
Number of People Employed
413
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 25.7%
Examine, diagnose, and treat diseases, injuries, and malformations of teeth and gums. May treat diseases of nerve, pulp, and other dental tissues affecting oral hygiene and retention of teeth. May fit dental appliances or provide preventive care.
Typical Education Level
a Doctoral degree or more
Hourly Median Wage
$80.93
Annual Median Wage
$168,353
Number of People Employed
2,261
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 15.8%
Physicians who diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases and injuries that commonly occur in the general population. May refer patients to specialists when needed for further diagnosis or treatment.
Typical Education Level
a Doctoral degree or more
Hourly Median Wage
$90.22
Annual Median Wage
$187,678
Number of People Employed
2,496
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 16.4%
Research and study the structures and chemical properties of various natural and synthetic or composite materials, including metals, alloys, rubber, ceramics, semiconductors, polymers, and glass. Determine ways to strengthen or combine materials or develop new materials with new or specific properties for use in a variety of products and applications. Includes glass scientists, ceramic scientists, metallurgical scientists, and polymer scientists.
Typical Education Level
a Doctoral degree or more
Hourly Median Wage
$35.62
Annual Median Wage
$74,104
Number of People Employed
47
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 10.6%
Dispense drugs prescribed by physicians and other health practitioners and provide information to patients about medications and their use. May advise physicians and other health practitioners on the selection, dosage, interactions, and side effects of medications.
Typical Education Level
a Master's or Professional degree
Hourly Median Wage
$61.70
Annual Median Wage
$128,340
Number of People Employed
4,626
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 10.7%
Teach courses pertaining to the chemical and physical properties and compositional changes of substances. Work may include instruction in the methods of qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching, and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
Typical Education Level
a Doctoral degree or more
Hourly Median Wage
$27.14
Annual Median Wage
$56,457
Annual Job Openings
1,222
Number of People Employed
14,262
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 14.6%
Physicians who treat diseases, injuries, and deformities by invasive, minimally-invasive, or non-invasive surgical methods, such as using instruments, appliances, or by manual manipulation.
Typical Education Level
a Doctoral degree or more
Hourly Median Wage
$175.64
Annual Median Wage
$365,349
Number of People Employed
290
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 27.6%
Diagnose, treat, or research diseases and injuries of animals. Includes veterinarians who conduct research and development, inspect livestock, or care for pets and companion animals.
Typical Education Level
a Doctoral degree or more
Hourly Median Wage
$46.51
Annual Median Wage
$96,741
Number of People Employed
1,048
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 20.4%
* Career and wage information provided by Emsi using data, reports, and forecasts which are generated using government data sources and Emsi’s proprietary analytical processes. Emsi’s data covers multiple classes of workers including QCEW, non-QCEW, and those who are self-employed. Disclaimer
Financial Aid
You can get a high-quality, affordable education. MCC’s low tuition rates and various financial aid opportunities make it possible. Explore federal and state grants, Federal Work-Study, scholarships, student loans, and other options today.
Meet with an Advisor
Click here for MCC’s easy-to-use Enrollment Steps.
Before signing up for classes, you’ll want to meet with an academic advisor. Together, you’ll lay out an academic plan that suits you best. This step is essential to your academic success.
Advising for the Chemistry program is available through the Physical Science department. They will help you determine the exact courses you need to get the education you’re looking for.
