Chemistry Degrees

The department of chemistry, which is approved by the American Chemical Society (ACS), offers both the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degrees. The B.S. degree in chemistry is designed for majors planning to be industrial or government chemists, planning to take graduate training in chemistry or biochemistry, or considering research in an allied field such as pharmacy, forensics, toxicology, or medicine. The B.A. degree is designed for chemical technologists and pre-professional students, including high school chemistry teachers.

High shool students who have had advanced level courses in chemistry should consult with the department chairperson about a modified course of study.

Students can start undergraduate research with CHEM 4950 when a faculty supervisor deems their background sufficient to support the work. The department urges students to include research in their programs before their last year. NSCI 3940 satisfies the third writing course requirement for chemistry degrees. It should be taken more than one year before intended graduation. Prior experience with an algorithmic programming language is highly recommended before taking CHEM 3354.

Students working toward a degree in chemistry must earn a grade of “C” or better in all courses used to fulfill chemistry requirements.