Modern chemistry is the cornerstone for a large number of professions and industries. The chemistry major programs are based on a career-oriented concept and offer students an excellent opportunity to prepare for the study of medicine and dentistry and to do advanced study in many fields of science. The chemistry department offers major programs that lead to the B.A. or B.S. degree. The two degree curricula differ mainly in their arts and sciences content and advanced science course requirements.
All students take courses in organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry.
Qualified students are encouraged to undertake a research program under the supervision of a faculty member. The Chemistry Department offers several interdisciplinary options in which some of the chemistry and math courses required of B.S. chemistry majors have been replaced with required and elective courses focused on business, education, environmental science, or law and public policy. See the chemistry department for a brochure describing these options. A quality point average of 2.0 is required in all chemistry, physics and math courses taken. Acceptance into the major will be based on students meeting the department's criteria for admission and availability of space in the program.