Bachelor of Science in Chemistry

The Department of Chemistry and Physics, located in the recently renovated campus Science Center, offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry certified by the American Chemical Society. Students may choose from optional concentrations in Biochemistry, Forensic Science, and Nanotechnology.

Students may also complete the general Chemistry program without choosing a concentration. Graduates with a degree in Chemistry are prepared for careers in the chemical, pharmaceutical, oil, and food industries, where they are often employed in quality control, research, sales, and environmental safety. Graduates are also well prepared for advanced studies in medicine, dentistry, optometry, patent law, and related professions.

Biochemistry Concentration

Students who choose the Biochemistry concentration receive in-depth training in traditional areas of chemistry combined with cellular and molecular biology. Graduates are well prepared for the rapidly growing biotechnology industry or for further study in chemistry, biology, or professional disciplines such as medicine, dentistry, or pharmacy. Career opportunities are available in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, pharmaceutical industries, biotechnology industries, food industries, and cosmetics industries.

Forensic Science Concentration

The Forensic Science concentration includes a core chemistry curriculum combined with courses in criminal justice and physics focusing on the collection, analysis, interpretation, and presentation of physical evidence. Students develop a solid foundation in scientific theory as well as the laboratory skills necessary to become a forensic scientist. Career opportunities for students completing this concentration include employment in pharmaceutical, biomedical, and forensic science laboratories. This program is excellent preparation for graduate study in forensic chemistry and analytical chemistry.

Nanotechnology Concentration

The Nanotechnology concentration is designed for students who want a chemistry education that concentrates on the rapidly growing field of nanotechnology and nanomanufacturing. The program includes a one-semester experience at Penn State University’s Nanofabrication Laboratory. Career opportunities include employment in pharmaceutical, biomedical, semiconductor, microelectronic, and optoelectronic industries. This program is excellent preparation for graduate study in solid-state chemistry, materials science, and microelectronics.