Chemistry

Prepare for Careers in Healthcare, Research, and Environmental Science

Student examining test tube.

Program Overview

Embark on a fascinating journey into the world of chemistry at College of Western Idaho (CWI), where you are the center of a unique educational experience. You will experience an in-depth exploration of the physical and chemical laws that govern our world. Here, you will dive into subjects like organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, and biochemistry, laying a strong foundation for your academic and career aspirations.

At CWI, your education is both comprehensive and tailored to your needs. With small class sizes and accessible faculty, you will receive the personalized attention and support necessary for success. The Chemistry program is not just about mastering chemical concepts; it's about preparing you for higher studies and careers in various fields like healthcare, research, and environmental science.

Degree or Certificate Type

Associate of Science

Academic Certificate

Cost

$5,796 – 8,830

Additional cost may apply.

Time to Complete

2 years

Primary Location

Two CWI students in lab coats and safety glasses in a lab

Learning Opportunities

  • In-Depth Chemical Knowledge: Gain a thorough understanding of various chemical principles.
  • Hands-On Laboratory Experiences: Develop practical skills through laboratory work.
  • Foundation for Advanced Studies: Prepare for further education in chemistry or related disciplines.
  • Personalized Learning Path: Benefit from the guidance of dedicated faculty and tailored course options.
  • Pathway to Diverse Careers: Equip yourself for a range of careers in science and technology.

Area of Study

Degrees & Certificates

Chemistry – Associate of Science Degree

2

YEARS

AS

Biotechnology Laboratory Assistant – Academic Certificate

2

YEARS

AC

A grooup of people in lab coats and one is looking at the camera

Career Opportunities

  • Postsecondary Teachers

    1434

    Annual Openings*

    $35.69

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $74,235

    Annual Median Salary

    45.6%

    Growth (2021 – 2031)*

  • Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education

    Teach one or more subjects to students at the secondary school level.

    514

    Annual Openings*

    $28.54

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $59,363

    Annual Median Salary

    2.91%

    Growth (2021 – 2031)*

  • Biological Technicians

    Assist biological and medical scientists. Set up, operate, and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment, monitor experiments, collect data and samples, make observations, and calculate and record results. May analyze organic substances, such as blood, food, and drugs.

    103

    Annual Openings*

    $16.03

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $33,342

    Annual Median Salary

    9.46%

    Growth (2021 – 2031)*

  • Natural Sciences Managers

    Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, statistics, and research and development in these fields.

    52

    Annual Openings*

    $45.37

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $94,370

    Annual Median Salary

    22.38%

    Growth (2021 – 2031)*

  • Chemical Technicians

    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.

    51

    Annual Openings*

    $18.78

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $39,062

    Annual Median Salary

    15.74%

    Growth (2021 – 2031)*

  • Chemists

    Conduct qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses or experiments in laboratories for quality or process control or to develop new products or knowledge.

    36

    Annual Openings*

    $29.41

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $61,173

    Annual Median Salary

    10.85%

    Growth (2021 – 2031)*

  • Food Science Technicians

    Work with food scientists or technologists to perform standardized qualitative and quantitative tests to determine physical or chemical properties of food or beverage products. Includes technicians who assist in research and development of production technology, quality control, packaging, processing, and use of foods.

    29

    Annual Openings*

    $22.31

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $46,405

    Annual Median Salary

    51.52%

    Growth (2021 – 2031)*

  • Forensic Science Technicians

    Collect, identify, classify, and analyze physical evidence related to criminal investigations. Perform tests on weapons or substances, such as fiber, hair, and tissue to determine significance to investigation. May testify as expert witnesses on evidence or crime laboratory techniques. May serve as specialists in area of expertise, such as ballistics, fingerprinting, handwriting, or biochemistry.

    23

    Annual Openings*

    $25.47

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $52,978

    Annual Median Salary

    16.73%

    Growth (2021 – 2031)*

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*Data sourced from Lightcast™ (2023), a global leader in labor market analytics, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data. Career pathways may require further education beyond CWI.

Admissions

Step 1

Step 2

  • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Academic CalendarNew Student Checklist

Clubs

chemistry club text over a chemistry beaker filled with pink and purple liquid
Chemistry Club

Join the Chemistry Club at College of Western Idaho and embark on an exciting journey through the captivating world of molecules and reactions! Dive into hands-on experiments, engaging discussions, and captivating lectures led by fellow students and...

News

Mike Fisher, a dedicated faculty member in the Physical Sciences department, has been recognized as Faculty of Distinction for September 2024.

Read more about Fisher Selected as September 2024 Faculty of Distinction

Adjunct Faculty, Dr. Ray Walsh’s, Magnetic Coulomb Barrier was awarded first place at the American Academy of Physics Teacher’s Apparatus Competition.

Read more about Walsh’s Research Receives National Recognitions

Honors Program student, Jeff Jenks, has been able to connect to like-minded individuals who share his love of learning.

Read more about Honors Program Connecting Students

Join University of Idaho professor, Jason Barnes, April 13 to learn more about the Dragonfly space mission, a project to explore Titan, Saturn’s largest moon.

Read more about Visiting Scientist Series Welcomes Jason Barnes

CWI is excited to offer paid summer research opportunities for students through the Idaho INBRE Research Program. Apply by March 18.

Read more about INBRE Summer Research Opportunity

College of Western Idaho INBRE students showcase work examining the physiological effect of social media on people.

Read more about INBRE Students Recognized at Annual Conference

Faculty who teach General Education courses recognized for exemplary teaching, creativity, excellence, delivery, and service.

Read more about GEM Awards for Excellence

College of Western Idaho is excited to offer paid summer research opportunities for students through the Idaho INBRE Research Program.

Read more about INBRE: Paid Summer Research Opportunities

Visiting Scientist, Dr. Carolyn Hovde Bohach, to present, "A Scientific Journey: Cattle, The Silent Resevoir of E. coli", Nov. 29. 

Read more about Visiting Scientist Series Welcomes Dr. Carolyn Hovde Bohach

Recruits learn valuable skills during Basic Fire School, hosted annually at the College.

Read more about Recruits Learn to Battle Flames

College of Western Idaho student, Jacob Tenorio, makes history during the Pacific Northwest LSAMP Conference.

Read more about Student Makes History at LSAMP Conference

The mention of bed bugs causes most people to cringe, but College of Western Idaho (CWI) alumna Leticia Camacho, had a group of fellow scientists laughing as she played a YouTube video of bed bug...

Read more about 2017 Summer Research Community Symposium
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