Chemistry (Environmental Chemistry), BS


At a Glance: program details

  • Location: Tempe campus
  • Additional Program Fee: No
  • Second Language Requirement: No
  • Math Intensity: Substantial program math intensity substantial
  • Initial Math Course: MAT 270 - Calculus w/Analytic Geometry I

Required Courses (Major Map)

Major Map

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Solve today's environmental changes and unleash your potential to benefit the planet with hands-on lab experiences that allow you to delve into eco-friendly solutions. Master environmental chemistry, crafting a foundation for critical thinking, problem-solving and an Earth-conscious perspective.

Program Description

The BS program in chemistry with a concentration in environmental chemistry equips students with interdisciplinary knowledge, combining chemistry with environmental sciences, geology, mathematics and physics. Graduates gain a molecular perspective of the world, focusing on pollution control, energy and climate change. Students develop the expertise to address environmental challenges, making them well prepared for careers in environmental science, policy, regulation and advanced studies in chemical and environmental sciences at the graduate level.

The curriculum merges chemistry and environmental sciences courses, fostering a holistic understanding of environmental issues. It includes traditional coursework with lectures and hands-on laboratory sessions. The program emphasizes problem-solving, critical thinking and interdisciplinary competence. Students are encouraged to join laboratory research groups and faculty research projects, allowing them to engage in hands-on research and contribute to environmental solutions.

In addition to 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.




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.


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Career Outlook

A solid undergraduate program of education in chemistry that is obtained with this degree provides the necessary background for many career paths in chemical industries, government and other areas. This degree can be combined with law for patent work or government work, economics for sales and marketing careers, and computer science for careers in information storage and retrieval related to our planet.

Students planning to work in areas related to the environment will find the environmental chemistry concentration especially appropriate; they are also prepared for careers in environmental science, environmental monitoring, policy and regulation.

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: 3.2%
  • Median Salary*: 50840

Chemists


  • Growth: 6.2%
  • Median Salary*: 80670
  Bright Outlook

Climate Change Policy Analysts


  • Growth: 6.1%
  • Median Salary*: 76480
  Bright Outlook

Postsecondary Teachers, All Other


  • Growth: 3.6%
  • Median Salary*: 76920

Forensic Science Technicians


  • Growth: 12.6%
  • Median Salary*: 63740
  Bright Outlook

Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health


  • Growth: 6.1%
  • Median Salary*: 76480
  Bright Outlook

Water Resource Specialists


  • Growth: 4.8%
  • Median Salary*: 144440
  Bright Outlook

Atmospheric and Space Scientists


  • Growth: 4.4%
  • Median Salary*: 83780

Park Naturalists


  • Growth: 4.1%
  • Median Salary*: 64460

Soil and Plant Scientists


  • Growth: 4.7%
  • Median Salary*: 65730
  Bright Outlook

* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).



Global Opportunities

Global Experience

Students who participate in Global Education programs can strengthen their understanding of environmental chemistry through hands-on experience in new and exciting environments. Programs provide students with a global perspective and knowledge in preparation for a forward-thinking career.



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.