Chemistry

Undergraduate Study: Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BS), or Minor in Chemistry.

Academic Program

Chemistry stands at the crossroads between physics and biology. As biological processes are examined in ever finer detail, chemistry is increasingly called upon to provide the insights, techniques, and materials needed to understand the workings of living organisms, including ourselves. Chemistry is thus a popular major for those interested in biomedical careers. In another direction, chemistry is also essential to the search for solutions to the ecological problems created by the ever-expanding range of human activities. Chemists create new substances with new properties that find application throughout our civilization.

As a major, chemistry provides a solid foundation of scientific knowledge and experimental skills that enables one to specialize in many directions toward careers in research, teaching, business, or professional practice. Also, because virtually all constructed things we see and use in our daily lives involve chemistry, there is a huge pool of jobs for chemists in the manufacturing industries.

Major-Related Skills

In addition to discipline specific content, chemistry majors have the ability to:

apply scientific methodology and use scientific equipment.

organize and maintain accurate records.

analyze, problem solve, and make analogies proficiently.

compute numerically and conduct basic statistical analyses.

integrate ideas and concepts across biological disciplines.

design, conduct, and interpret scientific research.

make critical observations and evaluations, and apply the scientific approach to problems.

present results and conclusions verbally and in writing.

design charts and graphs.

pay close attention to precision and accuracy.

Declaring Chemistry as a Major

Click here for a form-fillable version of the Declaration of Major Form. Complete the first page of the form and print two copies. Make an appointment with a faculty advisor in the Chemistry Department to discuss your interests, major requirements, and course selection. The advisor will complete the second page of the form. Two copies of the completed form should then be turned in at the service counter for Arts & Sciences Student Academic Services.
Note: Click here if you are adding a second major - you will need to use a declaration of major form that has not been pre-filled to declare chemistry as your first major. Click here for concurrent degree requests (i.e., between A&S and another college or different degree programs within A&S, such as concurrent BA and BS degrees).

Created by Lynne Higa, Michael Kirk-Kuwaye

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