Evaluating the Relevance of the Chemistry Curriculum to the Workplace: Keeping Tertiary Education Relevant

There are various programs and initiatives in universities that aim to maximize students’ potential in their academic journey, personal life, and future career. Research opportunities, internships, overseas exchange programs, and other initiatives aim to equip students with the hard and soft skills needed by employers. Although these efforts are substantial, they must be evaluated and assessed to meet the increasing demands and challenges in the current job market. This is also to ensure that further improvements can be made to allow a smoother transition of the graduates from tertiary education institutes to the workplace. Job portals/Web sites have been reviewed, and National University of Singapore (NUS) chemistry educators have been interviewed to understand the learning and teaching environment as well as the requirements of employers. Surveys of NUS chemistry undergraduates and employers were also conducted. The relevance of the chemistry curriculum to the workplace is examined with the aim of keeping tertiary education in perspective.