Majors

The Department of Chemistry offers two undergraduate degrees: a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Chemistry. In addition to chemistry courses, both degrees require students to take courses in mathematics and physics.

Chemistry, B.A.

The B.A. degree is intended for students who desire a general training in chemistry that still provides adequate preparation for graduate work in chemistry or the medical field. The B.A. degree is also suited for those students wishing to add a major in another field. The B.A. degree requires a minimum of 26 credit hours in the department, in addition to eight hours of physics and six hours of calculus or statistics. This degree is not certified by the American Chemical Society. 

Chemistry, B.S.

The B.S. degree is a more rigorous degree that requires considerably more teaching laboratory hours and undergraduate research. The B.S. degree is intended for students who desire a complete and well-rounded chemistry background for graduate work in chemistry or the medical field. The B.S. degree is also well-suited for students desiring employment immediately after graduation. The B.S degree requires a minimum of 44 hours in the department, including eight hours of physics and nine hours of calculus. Three credit hours of undergraduate research are also required, although most B.S. majors conduct research for more than this requirement. The B.S. degree is certified by the American Chemical Society for professional training in chemistry.