COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science in Chemistry is a comprehensive program designed for students seeking careers in chemistry, related sciences, or professional health and industry fields, as well as those planning to pursue graduate studies in chemical sciences. The program requires a total of 120 units for graduation, with 80-81 units specifically dedicated to chemistry and supporting coursework. The curriculum is grounded in foundational courses across the chemical sub-disciplines, including general chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, and physical chemistry, along with supporting studies in mathematics, biology, and physics.Lower-division requirements (37 units) include foundational courses such as Principles of Biology, General Chemistry I and II with laboratories, Calculus I and II, Applied Linear Algebra, and General Physics I and II with laboratories. These courses provide students with the essential quantitative, laboratory, and scientific skills needed for advanced study.Upper-division requirements (19 units) include Quantitative Analysis, Principles of Organic Chemistry I and II, Biochemistry I with laboratory, Chemistry Seminar, and the Undergraduate Comprehensive Examination. Students must then choose a concentration—Chemistry or Biochemistry—to complete the major.The Chemistry concentration (24-25 units) includes advanced coursework in inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry I and II, and laboratory work, with options in polymer science, materials chemistry, or instrumental analysis, as well as a senior project or research experience. Elective courses provide flexibility for further specialization in areas such as environmental chemistry, medicinal chemistry, computational chemistry, or independent research.The Biochemistry concentration (25 units) is tailored for students pursuing careers in biotechnology, medical, or pharmaceutical fields. This track includes advanced biology courses such as cell biology, molecular biology, microbiology, or genetics, along with Biochemistry II and III laboratories, bioinorganic chemistry, and physical chemistry for biochemists.Overall, the B.S. in Chemistry equips students with rigorous theoretical knowledge, extensive laboratory experience, and opportunities for specialization, preparing graduates for professional careers, research, or advanced study in chemistry and related scientific disciplines.