The Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry in the College of Liberal Arts offers the B.A. in Chemistry. To be admitted to this degree, students must meet certain prerequisites.
Chemistry majors are introduced to the electronic theory of matter, organic and inorganic chemical reactions, quantum and statistical mechanics, thermodynamics, chemical kinetics, the kinetic theory of gases, and the properties of solutions. They receive training in the theory and use of state-of-the-art chemical instrumentation, the principles of data collection and analyses, and the techniques used for the professional presentation of scientific results.
B.A. vs. B.S.
Students can choose between the Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry and the Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with optional emphases in Biochemistry, Environmental Chemistry, or Physical Chemistry.
- The Bachelor of Arts degree has a deeper and wider general education foundation and allows greater compatibility with other areas of study. It requires a minor field of study or double major.
- The more specialized Bachelor of Science degree requires more mathematics and science as well as more chemistry courses. The B.S. degree is accredited by the American Chemical Society (ACS).
The Value of a Chemistry Degree
A chemistry degree empowers and prepares students to deal with complexity and change through a broad knowledge of the world. Students gain key skills in communication, problem-solving, and working with a diverse group of people. The American Chemical Society helps students explore chemistry careers. Related careers in chemistry include chemical and materials research, medical research, pharmacology, toxicology, health care, pharmacy, law, policy, and environmental science.