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Bachelor Degree Programs

Dr. Kohli Lab Research, SIU School of Chemical and Biomolecular Sciences

Chemistry provides a robust foundation for a wide range of scientific, professional, and business careers. Whether your interests lie in agricultural chemistry, forensic science, medical fields, or environmental sustainability, a chemistry degree equips you with versatile skills applicable to numerous industries. Students are encouraged to collaborate with undergraduate advisors to tailor their curriculum to align with their specific career goals, opening doors to opportunities in diverse fields such as materials science, pharmacology, and toxicology.

All Chemistry majors start with a Comprehensive Chemistry specialization, offering rigorous training in analytical, organic, and physical chemistry. After the freshman year, students pursuing a Bachelor of Science have the flexibility to continue in Comprehensive Chemistry or select from specialized tracks. This structure ensures that students receive both a broad and focused education, preparing them for advanced studies or professional roles in their chosen fields.

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Bachelor of Arts Degree Requirements

The Chemistry degree program can be earned by fulfilling the requirements for the Bachelor of Arts degree.

  • Total Degree Requirements: 120 credit hours
  • University Core Curriculum: 39 credit hours
  • Chemistry Major Requirements: 68 credit hours
  • Business Specialization: 21-22 credit hours
  • Electives: 7-10 credit hours

Compass IconCheck out the undergraduate Curricular Guides; General, Business which helps you outline what courses you would want to take each semester for all four years. View all related undergraduate courses.

Bachelor of Science Degree Requirements

The Chemistry degree program can be earned by fulfilling the requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree.

  • Total Degree Requirements: 120 credit hours
  • University Core Curriculum: 39 credit hours
  • Chemistry Major Requirements: 68-70 credit hours
  • Electives: 13-15 credit hours

Compass IconCheck out the undergraduate Curricular Guides; Environmental Chemistry, Forensic Chemistry which helps you outline what courses you would want to take each semester for all four years. View all related undergraduate courses.

Specializations

Business Chemistry (BA): Integrates chemistry with business practices and management skills.

Comprehensive Chemistry (BS): Rigorous study in analytical, organic, and physical chemistry principles.

Environmental Chemistry (BS): Examines chemical interactions and impacts within environmental systems.

Forensic Chemistry (BS): Applies chemistry to solve crimes and analyze evidence.

Chemical Education (BS): Combines rigorous chemistry and education training, culminating in initial licensure to teach Science–Chemistry in Illinois.

Chemistry Honors (BS): Enhances problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills.

American Chemical Society Certification (BS): Provides a competitive advantage for students seeking jobs or graduate school in chemistry-related fields.

Minors

Chemistry: A chemistry minor equips students with fundamental knowledge in organic, inorganic, physical, and biochemistry. It enhances your preparation for graduate studies in natural sciences or medicine, providing a strong scientific foundation.

Forensic Science: The forensic science minor requires 15 credit hours, offering specialized courses that equip students with skills to analyze evidence and apply chemistry in criminal investigations.

Research Opportunities

Gain real research experience starting as an undergrad. Chemistry majors are encouraged to connect with faculty to explore hands-on projects using advanced tools like ultra-fast lasers, NMR spectrometers, and high-performance computing. Opportunities include paid assistantships, national conference presentations, and programs like McNair Scholars and REACH, all designed to help you grow your skills and stand out.

Facilities

Image Center: Provides training and research in advanced microscopy, including electron and atomic-force techniques, with capabilities for x-ray and image analysis.

NMR Facility: Features Varian high-field multinuclear spectrometers for university-wide research, offering discounted rates for extended data collection.

Mass Spectrometry Facility: Supports research with high-performance mass spectrometers, offering training and sample analysis services to SIU researchers.

Student Organizations

Undergraduates may join Alpha Chi Sigma or the American Chemical Society student affiliate for engaging activities such as company visits, research presentations, and Chemistry Bowl competitions. Additionally, students can explore over 400 registered organizations, including sororities, media groups, and sports clubs.

Contact Information

Qingfeng Ge
Director
Neckers 223
1245 Lincoln Dr
Carbondale, IL 62901
618-453-6406
qge@chem.siu.edu

Alesia Beanland
Academic Advisor
Agriculture Bldg 217 A
1205 Lincoln Dr
Carbondale, IL 62901
618-453-3080
alesia@siu.edu

Careers

  • Food Chemist
  • Industrial Chemist
  • Quality Control Chemist
  • Patent Lawyer
  • Pharmaceutical Chemist
  • Analytical Chemist
  • Environmental Chemist
  • Forensic Scientist
  • Chemical Engineer
  • Materials Scientist
  • Clinical Chemist
  • Toxicologist
  • Chemistry Teacher