This subject requires on campus attendance. Refer to Additional Requirements for more information.
Foundations in Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences 1
UndergraduateMAQ-CHEX10012025
Examine the smallest building blocks of matter in this exploration of molecular science. You’ll learn basic theories and methods of chemistry—online and in the lab. Discover how biomolecular science tackles challenges in health, sustainability, and more.
Enrolments for this course are closed, but you may have other options to start studying now. Book a consultation to learn more.
- Study method
- Online & on-campus
- Assessments
- Subject may require attendance
- Entry requirements
- Prior study needed
- Duration
- 13 weeks
- Loan available
- HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP available
Foundations in Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences 1
About this subject
On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:
- Use the language and principles of chemical science to explore the composition and properties of matter and discuss how molecular sciences are important in our lives.
- Name and write (or describe) the chemical structures for representative inorganic and organic compounds, including peptides, carbohydrates and nucleic acids.
- Analyse the chemical structure of chemical compounds to predict their function, reactivity and physical properties.
- Calculate the physical quantities that characterize chemical composition, including solids and solutions, as well as chemical reactions.
- Demonstrate laboratory skills used for the preparation, separation and analysis of chemical compounds, including an understanding of general laboratory safety procedures.
- Record and analyse scientific data, as well as communicate conclusions using the basic elements of scientific report preparation.
- A week-by-week guide to the topics you will explore in this subject will be provided in your study materials.
Foundations of Chemical and Biomolecular Sciences 1 introduces students to the principles and practical aspects of molecular sciences, from basic chemical substances to biomolecules. No prior chemistry or biology knowledge is required, making it ideal for anyone wanting to understand the atomic and molecular world. The unit starts with the language of chemistry, introducing atoms, molecules, elements, and compounds, using inorganic, organic, and biomolecular examples to explain their structures, functions, and reactions. It builds on this to predict the reactivity, behaviour, and function of different compounds, with a focus on acids, bases, and biomolecules. Contemporary applications highlight the role of chemical and biomolecular sciences in achieving a sustainable environment, understanding health and disease, and advancing new molecular technologies. Practical sessions and workshops during five compulsory on-campus days reinforce learning throughout the unit.
Learning in this unit enhances student understanding of global challenges identified by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) Good Health and Well Being; Clean Water and Sanitation; Climate Action; Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
Laboratory class (In-person). Please note that participation in the practical classes is a hurdle and that you must attend all four practical classes to pass CHEX1001.
- In-Session Test (20%)
- Final Exam (40%)
- Weekly Quizzes (20%)
- Practical classes exercises (20%)
- Practical classes (0%)
- Workshop Contribution (0%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
This research-intensive university in north-western Sydney offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. With over 44,000 current students, Macquarie has a strong reputation for welcoming international students and embracing flexible and convenient study options, including its partnership with Open Universities Australia.
Learn more about Macquarie University.
Explore Macquarie courses.
- QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:
- 11
- Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:
- 10
Entry requirements
Others
NCCW (pre-2020 units): CBMS107, CBMS103
NCCW (2020 and onwards): CHEM1001 Foundations of Chemical and Biomolecular Sciences 1
Additional requirements
- Attendance requirements - Practical classes are available over a number of weeks, so that if a class is missed the student can catch up at a later time. For those cases where the practical is no longer in the schedule special repeat classes at the end of session may be offered. Attendance is required at the Macquarie University Campus in North Ryde (Sydney, NSW). The session dates will be confirmed.
- Other requirements -
Students who have an Academic Standing of Suspension or Exclusion under Macquarie University's Academic Progression Policy are not permitted to enrol in OUA subjects offered by Macquarie University. Students with an Academic Standing of Suspension or Exclusion who have enrolled in subjects through OUA will be withdrawn.
Study load
- 0.125 EFTSL
- This is in the range of 10 to 12 hours of study each week.
Equivalent full time study load (EFTSL) is one way to calculate your study load. One (1.0) EFTSL is equivalent to a full-time study load for one year.
Find out more information on Commonwealth Loans to understand what this means to your eligibility for financial support.
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