Undergraduate Chemistry

The Department of Chemistry offers both a B.S. degree in Chemistry and a B.S. degree in Chemistry with a Biochemistry Emphasis. The Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry is designed to develop chemists thoroughly competent in both the theoretical and practical aspects of the field. It is intended for those who wish to work as professional chemists in private industry, government, or research institutions. The degree is also an excellent preparation for those who contemplate graduate study in any area of chemistry or its allied fields. The Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry with an Emphasis in Biochemistry is designed for those whose interests lie in areas where biology and chemistry overlap. The degree prepares the student for a wide range of employment in these areas and for graduate work. Both degrees provide an excellent preparation for those seeking admission to medical, dental, pharmacy, or other professional schools. Students pursuing either degree can elect to obtain American Chemical Society (ACS) certification by fulfilling the additional requirements described below.

Program Objectives

• Provide programs of instruction which lead to the B.S. degree and which enable students to begin either a career in science or to continue with study for a higher degree.
• Transmit to students a rigorous understanding of fundamental chemical concepts and techniques.
• Encourage the development of a mentor relationship between the student and his or her faculty advisor.
• Structure opportunities within the department for students to gain practical experience with a wide variety of chemistry instruments and to learn how to interpret data obtained from them.
• Help students obtain chemistry-related work experience prior to their graduation.
• Encourage each student to collaborate with a faculty member on a research project.
• Develop students' abilities to communicate ideas in chemistry to general audiences and to specialists.

To learn more:

• Please see Chemistry Course Descriptions.
• Please see Chemistry Major.
  • Please see Typical Curriculum for the Major in Chemistry.
• Please see Biochemistry Emphasis.
  • Please see Typical Curriculum for Biochemistry Emphasis.
• Please see Minor in Chemistry.
• Please see Minor in Biochemistry.
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