Chemistry

Overview

Chemistry programs teach people about the structure, composition, and nature of matter.

Chemistry programs include topics such as:

Molecular synthesis
Spectroscopy
Molecular structure of cells and systems
Chemical modeling
Laboratory analysis procedures and equipment maintenance

Concentrations

In chemistry programs, students may be able to specialize in:

Physical and theoretical chemistry
Inorganic chemistry
Polymer chemistry
Organic chemistry
Analytical chemistry
Chemical physics
Theoretical chemistry
Forensic chemistry
Environmental chemistry

Schools

Many community colleges and other two-year schools offer associate degree programs in chemistry. An associate degree usually takes two years to complete. Students may work as a lab technician with an associate degree, or transfer to a college or university for further study.

Most colleges and universities offer bachelor's degrees in chemistry. A bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study. A bachelor's degree prepares students for an entry-level position in many chemical industries.

Most universities offer graduate degrees in chemistry. A master's degree typically requires two years of study beyond a bachelor's degree. Doctoral (PhD) degree programs usually require two or more years of study beyond the master's degree.

See schools that offer this program.

Related Educational Programs

Related Careers

Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study

Other Careers Related to this Program of Study

Program Admission

You can prepare for this program by taking courses in high school that prepare you for college. This typically includes four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

Advanced Calculus courses
Advanced Chemistry courses
Advanced Physics courses
Biology
Calculus
Chemistry
Computer Science and Programming
General Computer Applications
Physics
Probability and Statistics
Technical Writing
Trigonometry

Graduate Admissions

Admission to graduate programs is competitive. You need a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related science, good grades, and good test scores.

Additional requirements at some schools include:

Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General
Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Chemistry
Statement of research interest and personal goals
Letters of recommendation
Personal interview

Typical Course Work

Program Courses

This undergraduate program typically includes courses in the following subjects:

Analytical Chemistry
Biochemistry
Calculus
Differential Equations
Electricity and Magnetism
English Composition
General Chemistry
Inorganic Chemistry
Instrumental Methods
Organic Chemistry
Physical Chemistry
Physics
Quantitative Analysis
Scientific Computer Programming
Technical Writing

No matter where you go to school, you're likely to take a set of "core" courses similar to the list above. Once you've completed those courses, you can take advanced courses that focus on a specific area of chemistry.

Graduate Program Courses

Graduate students usually focus on one branch - organic, inorganic, physical, or analytical chemistry, or a particular application. Typical courses vary by specialty. All require original research and expertise in use of computers. A list of common graduate requirements is below:

Required courses
Thesis (master's degree)
Preliminary exams (doctoral degree only)
Dissertation and dissertation defense (doctoral degree)

Things to Know

Most chemistry programs require you to operate sophisticated lab instruments such as mass spectrometers. You also use computers to create models that simulate chemical processes.

Many jobs in this field require writing and clear communication. Taking writing and other humanities courses will develop your communication skills.

Internships can introduce you to the many practical applications of chemistry. For example, you may learn how chemistry can impact agriculture and research ways to improve crop production for farmers.

East Side Area

Big Bend Community College

Chemistry Pre-Major

Central Washington University

Chemistry
Chemistry--Biochemistry
Chemistry--Teaching
Environmental Sciences--Environmental Chemistry

Walla Walla Community College

Chemistry Pre-Major

Walla Walla University

Chemistry

Washington State University - Pullman

Chemistry
Chemistry--Materials Option
Chemistry--Teaching Option
Secondary Education, 4-12--Chemistry

Wenatchee Valley College

Chemistry Pre-Major

Whitman College

Chemistry
Chemistry--Environmental Studies
Chemistry--Geology

King-Snohomish Area

Bellevue College

Associate in Arts and Sciences Transfer Degree
Associate in Science Track 1 Biological, Environmental/Resources, Chemistry, and Earth Sciences (Life Sciences Track)