The Department of Chemistry offers two undergraduate degree programs, the bachelor of science (B.S.) and the bachelor of arts (B.A.).

The Chemistry BS degree is certified by the American Chemical Society when a biochemistry course is included. An ACS-approved programs offer a broad-based and rigorous chemistry education that gives students the intellectual, experimental, and communication skills needed to become effective scientific professionals in chemical and other related fields. The program also provides all the prerequisites for graduate work in chemistry or biochemistry and in other biomedical areas with a molecular focus.

The Chemistry BA degree is a good choice for students interested in medical or other professional schools, or those interested in a teaching career. The program provides students the flexibility to earn a degree in chemistry while also completing related courses required for medical school, such as biology and biochemistry. Compared to the BS, the BA degree has modified mathematics requirements, includes a one-semester physical chemistry course, requires one analytical chemistry course, and has a single, integrated, capstone laboratory incorporating analytical, inorganic, and physical chemistry experiments.

A Chemical Sciences Track (the "Yellow Track") is part of the Environmental Science degree program. A B.S. degree in Environmental Chemical Sciences is a good choice for students who want to combine their interests in environmental science and chemistry. The Environmental Chemical Sciences track will provide the necessary training for entry level positions requiring a basic understanding of chemical principles and a working knowledge of basic chemical concepts applied in the environment. The programs will train students for employment opportunities in the fields of environmental science and environmental chemistry. The program will also serve as a strong foundation for those desiring to pursue graduate education in environmental chemistry. 

Chemistry majors can obtain a license to teach in elementary and/or secondary schools by completing the requirements of the College of Education's Teacher Education Program (TEP). Consult the College of Education Academic Advising for more details. Mathematics majors (B.A. or B.S.) can also specialize in chemistry by fulfilling the Department of Mathematics “Program C” requirements. Information about the program is available on the department website.

The coursework requirements for a chemistry major are outlined here. Students must also fulfill the General Education Program of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Questions about departmental requirements and general questions about chemistry as a career can be answered by one of the chemistry advisors. Check with the Chemistry Center (E225 CB, 335-1341) for referral to an advisor. Questions about collegiate requirements can be answered most directly by advisors in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Office of Academic Programs & Student Development.