Organic Chemistry: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Organic chemistry is a foundational discipline within the chemical sciences that explores the structure, properties, reactions, and synthesis of carbon-based compounds and their derivatives. This rigorous academic program equips students with advanced analytical and experimental skills to understand molecular behavior across biological, industrial, and environmental systems.
- Molecular synthesis and design: The strategic planning and execution of chemical reactions to construct complex organic molecules with precise structural features and functional groups.
- Molecular conversion and reactivity: In-depth study of reaction mechanisms, transformation pathways, and the factors influencing the stability and reactivity of organic compounds.
- Molecular structure of biological systems: Examination of how organic molecules—such as proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids—contribute to the architecture and function of living cells and physiological processes.
- Organic-inorganic interactions: Investigation into the combined reactivity and functional integration of organic molecules with inorganic species in catalysis, materials science, and biochemical systems.
- Spectroscopic analysis techniques: Application of advanced instrumental methods—including NMR, IR, UV-Vis, and mass spectrometry—to determine molecular identity, structure, and dynamics.
- Applied research and industrial problem-solving: Real-world engagement with challenges in pharmaceutical development, sustainable chemistry, polymer science, and environmental remediation through organic chemical innovation.
Organic Chemistry Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Organic Chemistry Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Organic Chemistry degrees, including Natural Sciences Managers, Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary and Chemists. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 260,150 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Sciences Managers 11-9121 | $161,180 | $79,830 - $239,200 | 100,870 | $77.49 |
| Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary 25-1052 | $86,220 | $52,870 - $171,600 | 20,390 | N/A |
| Chemists 19-2031 | $84,150 | $53,210 - $154,430 | 83,250 | $40.46 |
| Chemical Technicians 19-4031 | $57,790 | $39,030 - $90,990 | 55,640 | $27.78 |
Organic Chemistry Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $69,583 in Vermont to $127,185 in Massachusetts—a 83% difference. The highest-paying states include Massachusetts, California, and District of Columbia. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 260,150 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Organic Chemistry by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 2 institutions offering Organic Chemistry programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Organic Chemistry is found at Iowa State University (ISU) (5 graduates), and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (3 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 8 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa State University (ISU) |
Master's
Doctorate (Research)
|
5 | Ames, Iowa | Public | iastate.edu |
| University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center |
Doctorate (Research)
|
3 | Dallas, Texas | Public | utsouthwestern.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Organic Chemistry programs
How much can I earn with a Organic Chemistry degree?
Salaries for Organic Chemistry graduates vary by role and location. Natural Sciences Managers earn a median of $161,180 annually, while Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary earn around $86,220. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in Massachusetts average $127,185 compared to $69,583 in Vermont. Approximately 260,150 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Organic Chemistry programs?
Currently 2 accredited institutions offer Organic Chemistry degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Iowa State University (ISU) (5 graduates), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (3 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Organic Chemistry growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have decreased over the past decade, rising from 14 in 2010 to a peak of 11 in 2020, before declining slightly to 8 in 2023-24. This represents a 43% decrease overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with consistent demand, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Organic Chemistry degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Natural Sciences Managers, Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary, and Chemists. Related occupations employ approximately 260,150 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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