Dec 03, 2024  
2024 - 2025 College Catalog 
    
2024 - 2025 College Catalog

Chemistry, BS


View Chemistry Department website

Chemistry majors develop a fundamental understanding of basic principles, concepts, models, and practices employed by chemists in characterizing the structure and behavior of matter.

The chemistry major is structured to ensure that this fundamental knowledge is based on experiences that include the four major divisions of chemistry (analytical, inorganic, organic, and physical). The chemistry program is designed to foster development of an understanding of (1) the nature of the underlying scientific processes employed in the acquisition of chemical knowledge, (2) the application of current principles and modern practices used in solving chemical problems, (3) the current state of chemical knowledge, and (4) the applications of the concepts of chemistry in addressing societal needs. The program is particularly well-suited to prepare students for careers in chemistry or related areas and for admission to graduate, medical, or other professional schools.

Learning Outcomes

  • Students will correctly use the fundamental concepts of chemistry.
  • Students will solve problems by understanding and implementing the stages of the research process.
  • Students will effectively communicate and disseminate the results of the scientific process to a diverse audience.
  • Students will demonstrate the ability to identify, locate, and evaluate primary literature.
  • Students will work both individually and collaboratively with other students and faculty.
  • Students will exhibit the skills of a successful professional.

Degree Requirements


General College Requirements


General College Requirements (see Curriculum  section), including the following requirements to satisfy the major

Required Chemistry Core Courses (28 credit hours)


Required Cognate Courses


Elective Courses


Option 1: ACS-Certified Major


Elective (Required) one of the 4 options:

Option 2: non-ACS-Certified Major


Four credits hours selected from the following list of options:

St. Mary’s Project


Every chemistry major must complete a St. Mary’s Project. This project may be in chemistry or in another major discipline or study area. The guidelines established in the selected area apply. 

Minimum Grade and GPA Requirements


Students must earn a grade of C- or better in all courses listed above, and maintain an overall GPA of 2.0 or better in these required courses.

Sequence of Study


First Year:


Sophomore Year:


Junior Year:


Senior Year:


  • Mary’s Project
  • Core Curriculum requirements
  • and elective courses