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 RecognitionsChemistry
The Elements of Success in Chemistry Start with the Knowledge in this Program
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
Time to Complete
0.5 – 2 years
Primary Location
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
Biotechnology Laboratory Assistant – Academic Certificate
Career Opportunities
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Teach one or more subjects to students at the secondary school level. Excludes “Career/Technical Education Teachers, Secondary School” (25-2032), “Special Education Teachers” (25-2050), and “Substitute Teachers, Short-Term” (25-3031).
264
Annual Openings*
$23.82
Hourly Median Wage*
$49,546
Annual Median Salary
12.88%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians
106
Annual Openings*
$21.35
Hourly Median Wage*
$44,408
Annual Median Salary
20.37%
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.
58
Annual Openings*
$15.15
Hourly Median Wage*
$31,512
Annual Median Salary
21.23%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
Conduct research or perform investigation for the purpose of identifying, abating, or eliminating sources of pollutants or hazards that affect either the environment or public health. Using knowledge of various scientific disciplines, may collect, synthesize, study, report, and recommend action based on data derived from measurements or observations of air, food, soil, water, and other sources. Excludes “Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists” (19-1023), “Conservation Scientists” (19-1031), “Forest and Conservation Technicians” (19-4071), “Occupational Health and Safety Specialists” (19-5011), “Fish and Game Wardens” (33-3031), and “Forest and Conservation Workers” (45-4011).
35
Annual Openings*
$30.65
Hourly Median Wage*
$63,752
Annual Median Salary
13.54%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Engineers, All Other
All engineers not listed separately. Excludes “Sales Engineers” (41-9031), “Locomotive Engineers” (53-4011), and “Ship Engineers” (53-5031).
28
Annual Openings*
$48.86
Hourly Median Wage*
$101,629
Annual Median Salary
25.83%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Soil and Plant Scientists
Conduct research in breeding, physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative practices on soil and crop productivity.
25
Annual Openings*
$37.20
Hourly Median Wage*
$77,376
Annual Median Salary
5.96%
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. Excludes “Computer and Information Systems Managers” (11-3021) and “Architecture and Engineering Managers” (11-9041).
23
Annual Openings*
$45.78
Hourly Median Wage*
$95,222
Annual Median Salary
26.85%
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. Excludes “Biochemists and Biophysicists” (19-1021) and “Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers” (19-2042).
23
Annual Openings*
$29.87
Hourly Median Wage*
$62,130
Annual Median Salary
17.56%
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.
22
Annual Openings*
$18.79
Hourly Median Wage*
$39,083
Annual Median Salary
13.45%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Biochemists and Biophysicists
Study the chemical composition or physical principles of living cells and organisms, their electrical and mechanical energy, and related phenomena. May conduct research to further understanding of the complex chemical combinations and reactions involved in metabolism, reproduction, growth, and heredity. May determine the effects of foods, drugs, serums, hormones, and other substances on tissues and vital processes of living organisms.
13
Annual Openings*
$51.72
Hourly Median Wage*
$107,578
Annual Median Salary
26.37%
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.
11
Annual Openings*
$24.10
Hourly Median Wage*
$50,128
Annual Median Salary
15.26%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Chemical Engineers
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.
9
Annual Openings*
$62.82
Hourly Median Wage*
$130,666
Annual Median Salary
16.61%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Food Scientists and Technologists
Use chemistry, microbiology, engineering, and other sciences to study the principles underlying the processing and deterioration of foods; analyze food content to determine levels of vitamins, fat, sugar, and protein; discover new food sources; research ways to make processed foods safe, palatable, and healthful; and apply food science knowledge to determine best ways to process, package, preserve, store, and distribute food.
8
Annual Openings*
$31.56
Hourly Median Wage*
$65,645
Annual Median Salary
16.7%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
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.
5
Annual Openings*
$23.85
Hourly Median Wage*
$49,608
Annual Median Salary
10.71%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
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. Excludes “Hydrologists” (19-2043).
4
Annual Openings*
$28.28
Hourly Median Wage*
$58,822
Annual Median Salary
-7.13%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Museum Technicians and Conservators
Restore, maintain, or prepare objects in museum collections for storage, research, or exhibit. May work with specimens such as fossils, skeletal parts, or botanicals; or artifacts, textiles, or art. May identify and record objects or install and arrange them in exhibits. Includes book or document conservators.
3
Annual Openings*
$18.12
Hourly Median Wage*
$37,690
Annual Median Salary
26.25%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Materials Scientists
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.
2
Annual Openings*
$39.64
Hourly Median Wage*
$82,451
Annual Median Salary
9.06%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
*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.
Admissions
Step 1
- Apply to CWI.
- Choose Chemistry as your major.
Step 2
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Cost & Aid
As a student in this program, you may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
Enrichment Opportunities
Enhance your academic experience, expand your knowledge, reach your goals, and celebrate your achievements.
Advising
Already a student? We are here to help you navigate your educational journey, connect you to academic and support resources, and achieve your academic or career goals.
Transfer Information
Plan ahead for a smooth transition to a four-year college or university.
Clubs
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
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 StudentsJoin 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 BarnesCWI 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 OpportunityCollege of Western Idaho INBRE students showcase work examining the physiological effect of social media on people.
Read more about INBRE Students Recognized at Annual ConferenceFaculty who teach General Education courses recognized for exemplary teaching, creativity, excellence, delivery, and service.
Read more about GEM Awards for ExcellenceCollege 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 OpportunitiesVisiting 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 BohachRecruits learn valuable skills during Basic Fire School, hosted annually at the College.
Read more about Recruits Learn to Battle FlamesCollege of Western Idaho student, Jacob Tenorio, makes history during the Pacific Northwest LSAMP Conference.
Read more about Student Makes History at LSAMP ConferenceThe 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 SymposiumA group of students and faculty from College of Western Idaho (CWI) recently attended the 2017 Idaho INBRE* Statewide Research Conference.
Read more about Students Present at Statewide Research ConferenceRequest More Information
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