Undergraduate Program

Departmental degree offerings for undergraduates are intended for students who plan to major or minor in chemistry, biochemistry, or other physical or life sciences, as well as for those pursuing degrees in other disciplines. We provide training for students planning a wide range of careers, with educational opportunities both in and out of the classroom.

Each graduating chemistry and biochemistry major will have completed a rigorous program that includes both foundational course work in chemistry and in-depth course work in chemistry or biochemistry in an integrated, flexible program. Our American Chemical Society–certified degree further emphasizes laboratory experience and the development of professional skills. Advanced coursework and educational activities outside the traditional classroom, such as independent research, provide students the opportunity to participate as a member of a research team. Many undergraduate students also take some of the graduate courses in synthetic chemistry, radiochemistry, and physical chemistry.

There are two chemistry majors, Major I and Major II. A year of General Chemistry and the accompanying General Chemistry Laboratory are prerequisites for admission to both Major I and Major II. Students considering a chemistry major should consult the departmental adviser during their first semester to plan the proper sequence of courses, and they are encouraged to consult with the adviser at least once every semester.

Major I

Designed to prepare students for professional research and graduate study, Major I  is accredited by the American Chemical Society.

        Plan Your Academic Path With the Chemistry Major I Degree Map

Major II

Major II features three options, all appropriate for students pursuing teacher education programs.

Option 1: This option is designed for students interested in the chemical industry.

        Plan Your Academic Path With the Chemistry Major II -Option 1 Degree Map

Option 2 (biochemistry): This option is designed for students interested in the pharmaceutical industry, medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, or physical therapy. It is accredited by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.

        Plan Your Academic Path With the Chemistry Major II -Option 2 Degree Map

Option 3 (bioinformatics): This option is designed for students who wish to pursue graduate studies in biochemistry and bioinformatics, as well as for those interested in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.

        Plan Your Academic Path With the Chemistry Major II -Option 3 (bioinformatics) Degree Map

Honors

See the course catalog for honors eligibility details.

Undergraduate Honors Thesis:

• Requirements for Undergraduate Honors Thesis (PDF)
• Acknowledgement of Requirements (PDF)

Curriculum

Interested in declaring a Major or Minor in Chemistry? Need information for graduating with departmental honors? Our Undergraduate Information & Curriculum Guide has the information you need to help you make an informed decision.

• Information and Curriculum Guide (PDF)

Research Groups

Although not a requirement for graduation as a chemistry major, the Department of Chemistry encourages undergraduate students to pursue individual laboratory research under the supervision of a faculty mentor.

• Learn About Joining a Research Group

Visit the course catalog for all of the chemistry minor requirements.