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 Ä¢¹½ÊÓÆµÍø (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

$6,654 – 9,905

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.

Areas of Study

Degrees & Certificates

Chemistry – Associate of Science Degree

2

YEARS

AS

Cost: $9,905

Biotechnology Laboratory Assistant – Academic Certificate

2

YEARS

AC

Cost: $6,654

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

Career Opportunities

  • Postsecondary Teachers

    1063

    Annual Openings*

    $35.10

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $73,008

    Annual Median Salary

    18.28%

    Growth (2025 – 2035)*

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

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

    427

    Annual Openings*

    $29.52

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $61,402

    Annual Median Salary

    5.34%

    Growth (2025 – 2035)*

  • Life, Physical, and Social Science Technicians, All Other

    All life, physical, and social science technicians not listed separately.

    62

    Annual Openings*

    $22.16

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $46,093

    Annual Median Salary

    9.77%

    Growth (2025 – 2035)*

  • 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.

    44

    Annual Openings*

    $48.93

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $101,774

    Annual Median Salary

    14.86%

    Growth (2025 – 2035)*

  • Chemists

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

    29

    Annual Openings*

    $33.30

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $69,264

    Annual Median Salary

    13.47%

    Growth (2025 – 2035)*

  • 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.

    28

    Annual Openings*

    $22.39

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $46,571

    Annual Median Salary

    4.76%

    Growth (2025 – 2035)*

  • 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.

    16

    Annual Openings*

    $22.60

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $47,008

    Annual Median Salary

    19.98%

    Growth (2025 – 2035)*

  • 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.

    13

    Annual Openings*

    $28.11

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $58,469

    Annual Median Salary

    12.62%

    Growth (2025 – 2035)*

  • Hydrologic Technicians

    Collect and organize data concerning the distribution and circulation of ground and surface water, and data on its physical, chemical, and biological properties. Measure and report on flow rates and ground water levels, maintain field equipment, collect water samples, install and collect sampling equipment, and process samples for shipment to testing laboratories. May collect data on behalf of hydrologists, engineers, developers, government agencies, or agriculture.

    5

    Annual Openings*

    $29.18

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $60,694

    Annual Median Salary

    -0.98%

    Growth (2025 – 2035)*

  • Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians

    Assist scientists or engineers in the use of electronic, sonic, or nuclear measuring instruments in laboratory, exploration, and production activities to obtain data indicating resources such as metallic ore, minerals, gas, coal, or petroleum. Analyze mud and drill cuttings. Chart pressure, temperature, and other characteristics of wells or bore holes.

    3

    Annual Openings*

    $22.12

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $46,010

    Annual Median Salary

    14.38%

    Growth (2025 – 2035)*

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*Data sourced from Lightcastâ„¢, a labor market analytics tool, 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).
New Student Checklist

Clubs

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

Join the Chemistry Club at Ä¢¹½ÊÓÆµÍø 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

Ä¢¹½ÊÓÆµÍø 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

Ä¢¹½ÊÓÆµÍø 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

Ä¢¹½ÊÓÆµÍø 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 Ä¢¹½ÊÓÆµÍø (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
View all news

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