Stand Out
The extra rigor and additional requirements of the American Chemical Society-certified degree are valued by potential employers and graduate schools alike.
Chemistry Major with ACS Certification
Whether you’re planning to launch a career in chemistry, pursue graduate studies,
or meet the prerequisites for medical, veterinary or dental school, our program provides
a strong foundation to help you reach your goals. You'll also be working toward certification
from the American Chemical Society, a recognized mark of excellence in the field.
What Will I Learn?
This rigorous B.S. in chemistry program provides you with the same sound foundation in the basic areas of inorganic, organic, analytical, and physical chemistry as does the B.A. program but additional coursework in biochemistry, inorganic chemistry and advanced analytical chemistry (instrumentation) satisfies the American Chemical Society requirements for certification.
The core of 57 chemistry credits (including a required research experience, advanced writing and chemistry seminar), combined with 8 credits each of mathematics and physics, prepares you for your future as a professional in the field of chemistry. Up to 30 available elective credits allows you to also select courses as pre-professional requirements for graduate study in medicine, veterinary medicine and dentistry.
What is Unique About Our Program?
You will earn ACS certification at the same time you earn a B.S. in chemistry. Obtaining certification of your chemistry degree shows prospective employers and graduate programs that you have completed the highest level of undergraduate chemical education. The ACS ensures your degree meets this standard by reviewing all aspects of certified chemistry programs every six years to make sure the program meets the highest standards in curriculum, learning outcomes, equipment, standards for teaching faculty, laboratory education and institutional support.
What Are My Career Opportunities?
Do you like chemistry, but are not sure what you would do with it? The American Chemical Society (or ACS, the professional society for chemists) has a career exploration tool with descriptions of what you would do, estimates of the salary you could expect to start at and current job prospects. Please visit the ACS site to explore career opportunities. Approach this site the way chemists approach their field — explore and enjoy.