Chemistry, BS


Explore the world of chemistry and help craft a better future. You'll gain hands-on laboratory experience and the knowledge needed to address contemporary challenges in materials, medicine, energy, technology and beyond.

Program Description

The Bachelor of Science program in chemistry offers a challenging and rewarding path for students who want to understand the world at the atomic and molecular levels. Students build strong scientific and laboratory skills while exploring areas such as energy, medicine, nanoscience, environmental science, forensics, cosmetics and food chemistry.

Through rigorous courses and hands-on lab work, students develop a deep understanding of chemical principles and sharpen their problem-solving and analytical thinking abilities. The program encourages curiosity and critical inquiry --- skills that are essential for success in science and research.

Students are also encouraged to join faculty-led research groups, where they can gain real-world experience investigating complex scientific questions. Because the School of Molecular Sciences offers a wide variety of research areas, chemistry majors have access to an exceptional choice of opportunities.

Accredited by the American Chemical Society, this program meets national standards for excellence in chemistry education. With a strong foundation in theory, lab experience and scientific reasoning, students are well prepared to make meaningful contributions in science, industry or graduate study.

In addition to reviewing the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, students interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences are advised to visit The College's website for more information and requirements.

Learning Outcomes

  • Predict molecular structure and reactivity using knowledge from organic, inorganic, analytical, physical and biological chemistry.
  • Clearly communicate their findings from a basic chemical experiment.
  • Analyze chemical data using common statistical methods.

At a Glance: program details
  • Location:
  • Additional Program Fee: Yes
  • Second Language Requirement: No
  • Math Intensity: Substantial
  • Initial Math Course: MAT 270 - Calc w/Analytic Geometry I
Required Courses (Major Map)

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Admission Requirements

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.

Freshman Transfer International Readmission


Transfer Options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use the Transfer Map search to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and help students save time and money in their college journey. Students may learn more about these programs by visiting the admission site: https://admission.asu.edu/transfer/pathway-programs.


Change of Major Requirements

A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.

Students should refer to https://changingmajors.asu.edu for information about how to change a major to this program.


Flexible Degree Options

Accelerated program options

This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years.
It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's and master's degree with:

Biochemistry (Medicinal Biochemistry)
Learn to solve medicinal problems with molecular tools, and prepare to succeed in an increasingly postdisciplinary scientific world. With its distinct emphasis on structure, properties and synthesis from the molecular perspective in a biological context, this program equips you to tackle complex challenges both in and beyond the lab.

Website | Locations: TEMPE

Materials Science and Engineering
Explore the atomic and molecular structures that drive modern technology. Become skilled in designing and manipulating materials at the fundamental level as you prepare to address challenges in energy, manufacturing and technology through advanced research and practical application.

Website | Locations: TEMPE,ONLNE


Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. During their junior year, eligible students will be advised by their academic departments to apply.

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Career Outlook

A degree in chemistry provides the background for careers in chemical and electronics industries and in national research, environmental and forensic labs. Chemistry can be combined with law for patent work, with economics for sales and marketing careers, and with computer science for careers in information technology. Graduates also emerge well prepared for advanced studies in chemistry and material science, positioning them competitively for graduate degree programs; some have chosen to complete a BS in chemistry to be competitive applicants for admission to medical, dental or pharmacy schools.

Chemists conduct research and routine work in laboratories; study the environment; work in manufacturing, sales and marketing; determine policy and regulation in the public sector; and teach in a variety of settings.

Example Careers

Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:

Chemical Technicians


  • Growth: 3.7%
  • Median Salary*: $57,790.00

Chemists


  • Growth: 4.9%
  • Median Salary*: $84,150.00
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Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary


  • Growth: 2.2%
  • Median Salary*: $86,220.00

Climate Change Policy Analysts


  • Growth: 4.4%
  • Median Salary*: $80,060.00

Forensic Science Technicians


  • Growth: 12.8%
  • Median Salary*: $67,440.00
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Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education


  • Growth: -1.6%
  • Median Salary*: $64,580.00

Water Resource Specialists


  • Growth: 3.7%
  • Median Salary*: $161,180.00

Materials Scientists


  • Growth: 4.9%
  • Median Salary*: $104,160.00
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Pharmacists


  • Growth: 4.6%
  • Median Salary*: $137,480.00
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* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).



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Global Experience

When studying abroad, chemistry students can gain valuable experience in a diverse set of programs. They acquire heightened skills in communication, critical thinking and leadership, enabling them to stand out competitively in their chosen field. Students earn ASU credit for completed courses while they stay on track for graduation.

Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.