Why+study+IB+chemistry

back to careers in chemistry = When is IB chemistry suitable for you? = Let's get serious when you get past the first two below

1. Grades
You have a grade C (for SL) or above (for HL) in an IGCSE or GCSE chemistry or coordinated science course. If you are considering Higher Level you should really have a grade B as this reflects the minimum amount of knowledge with understanding, science skills and, perhaps, more importantly, the learning skills which you will need to be able to cope with the conceptual demands and pace of the HL course.

2. Interest
IB chemistry is a challenging course and chemistry is a challenging subject!! You will need to be really interested in chemistry to get you through some of the "darker" periods of the course. But being interested in chemistry should really not be too difficult. Think of what you really like i.e. music, sport, clothes, gadgets, movies, electronics, cosmetics, ...or what you really need, e.g. food, medicines, ... all of these are made from substances or chemicals. These substances can be made more effective, nicer, cheaper, or be replaced by better ones; this is what chemists do. Chemistry drives the economy!! Have a look at the diversity of careers which is enormous, in the field of chemistry by using the links on the previous page.

You got past the two main hurdles to so let's now see which bullets fits you.

Higher Level

 * you want to study chemistry at university/college and you know the chemist/science job you are aiming for e.g vet!!!
 * you want to study chemistry at university/college because you want to work in the field of chemistry; check the [|career options with chemistry]
 * the university/college course you are interested in and have researched requires a grade in IB chemistry HL; it might not even be a chemistry course
 * you are considering a science career but you have not yet identified a specific university course or career - chemistry is the central science so it is a good one to choose to keep your science options open.
 * you do not have any idea yet of what you would like to study at university or college; again chemistry keeps your options open should you wish to go in a science direction after IB
 * you know what university course you want to study; it is not a science course, you already have the necessary HL subject(s) that you need for your course and you want to challenge yourself academically; an 'academic heavyweight' like chemistry HL might support your university application. Another reason is because many employers recognise the value of training in logical thought, and numerical and communications skills which is what chemistry provides.

Standard Level
You have selected your 3 HL subjects and
 * still need a group 4 subject and chemistry is your best science
 * you need chemistry for your university course but not at HL
 * you would like diversity in your diploma programme
 * a challenge; add some academic 'spice' to your programme
 * you enjoy how chemistry is learned; its delivery, maybe it suits your learning style

Also, don't forget

__The course__ Calculations, atomic theory, periodicity, bonding, energetics, kinetics, oxidation and reduction, acids and bases, equilibrium, organic chemistry, environmental chemistry, medicines and drugs.

__The delivery__ Chemistry ideas and processes introduced through handouts, class discussions, demonstrations, reading, animations, simulations, independent research, power points, wikis, .... and of course

__A lot of experimental work__ to get through i.e. 24% of your final grade.