COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at Wichita State University is designed to provide rigorous academic training combined with strong laboratory and research experience, preparing students for graduate study, professional school, and careers in chemical and related industries. The program is approved by the American Chemical Society (ACS), meaning it meets national standards for professional chemists and allows graduates to receive ACS certification upon completion. Students complete a minimum of 120 credit hours, including approximately 34–35 credit hours of general education and about 82–88 credit hours of major coursework, while maintaining at least a 2.0 GPA in chemistry courses. The curriculum begins with foundational science and mathematics such as General Chemistry I and II (CHEM 211–212), Calculus I–III, Physics for Scientists I and II with labs, and General Biology I, ensuring a strong interdisciplinary base in STEM. Core chemistry training includes analytical chemistry with instrumental methods, organic chemistry I and II, physical chemistry I and II with laboratory work, and advanced inorganic chemistry with lab components. Students also engage in research through independent study or CHEM 690, and may choose advanced electives in biochemistry, inorganic chemistry, physics, mathematics, or approved interdisciplinary areas. The program emphasizes hands-on applied learning through modern laboratories, instrumentation, and faculty-mentored research projects, allowing students to build technical competence in experimentation, data analysis, and scientific communication. In alignment with ACS recommendations, students are encouraged to broaden their skills by taking courses in computer science, economics, marketing, business, and technical writing to enhance communication and professional readiness. The combination of structured coursework, research opportunities, and elective flexibility ensures that graduates are well-prepared for careers in pharmaceuticals, environmental science, materials science, forensic science, biotechnology, or continued academic study in chemistry and related fields.