Chemistry

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Chemistry; Major in Chemistry

The degree that meets certification by the American Chemical Society through its Committee on Professional Training. The B.S. degree provides the breadth and depth of experience to give graduates a wide choice of career options, and especially suited for further study in chemistry graduate school or a career in the chemical industry. 

B.S. in Chemistry; Major in Medicinal Chemistry

The medicinal chemistry major is designed for students interested in pursuing a career in healthcare, pharmaceutical research, or other related field. Medicinal chemistry is at the intersection of chemistry and biology and focuses on not only synthesizing pharmaceuticals but also testing and developing new drugs. Completing this degree will fulfill most pre-requisite courses needed for application to dental, medical and pharmacy school and leaves room for additional courses required by health professional programs.

B.S. in Chemistry; Major in Polymer Chemistry

The polymer chemistry major is centered on the study and synthesis of the large, complex molecules that make up the materials that have applications such as athletic tape, plastics, solar cells, and polyester fabric. Students will learn about additive manufacturing, polymer drug delivery, high-performance materials, sustainable polymers, biomedical materials, polymers for energy applications, and novel polymer chemistry.

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Chemistry

This degree has fewer required chemistry courses and less laboratory time than the B.S. It provides more flexibility for students to design a chemistry program with more electives to meet a wider set of career goals or to pursue a double major.

The Department typically graduates about 50 B.S. and B.A. chemistry majors each year, ranking in the top 50 in total graduates for the 600+ colleges and universities that offer the American Chemical Society accredited degree. Approximately one-half of graduates go to graduate or professional school, including the most elite institutions. Many of our graduates are now successful professors, medical doctors, executives, pharmacists, and research leaders. The other half of our graduates who gain employment directly upon graduation are equally distributed among careers in the chemical industry, government, and careers outside of chemistry (including business and law).

• Professor
• Medical doctor
• Executive
• Pharmacist
• Research lead
• Chemical industry
• Drug research
• Government
• Business and Law
• Pharmaceutical research
• Secondary education