COURSE CURRICULUM

The Chemistry BS with ACS-certified emphasis is a highly rigorous 120-credit science degree built for students who want strong preparation in chemistry, scientific research, medicine, pharmacy, biotechnology, toxicology, or graduate-level chemical sciences. Because the program is certified by the American Chemical Society, it follows nationally recognized professional standards, making graduates more competitive for research careers, graduate schools, medical schools, dental schools, and pharmaceutical industries. The curriculum is heavily focused on advanced chemistry theory, laboratory research, analytical instrumentation, mathematics, and physics. Students study general chemistry, organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, inorganic chemistry, biochemistry, physical chemistry, instrumental analysis, quantum chemistry, thermodynamics, and chemical research methods. Laboratory work is a major part of the program, with many courses including separate lab sections that train students in scientific experimentation, safety procedures, chemical analysis, spectroscopy, instrumentation, and research techniques. Courses such as CHE 311 Analytical Chemistry, CHE 411 Instrumental Analysis, CHE 461 Physical Chemistry, and CHE 462 Quantum Chemistry are among the most challenging and technical parts of the degree. The program also requires calculus, advanced physics, research experience, scientific writing, and a senior capstone research project through CHE 496 Research. Students interested in medical or healthcare careers are strongly encouraged to take biochemistry-related electives such as CHE 421 Biochemistry I, CHE 422 Biochemistry II, medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology. Compared to business, arts, or general biology degrees, this program is mathematically and scientifically intensive because it combines chemistry, calculus, physics, laboratory precision, and scientific problem-solving. Graduates can pursue careers as chemists, laboratory analysts, pharmaceutical researchers, forensic scientists, toxicologists, environmental chemists, materials scientists, research assistants, or quality control specialists. The degree is also excellent preparation for professional schools including medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and graduate chemistry programs because ACS certification demonstrates high-level scientific and laboratory training recognized throughout the scientific community.