BSc in Chemistry

Students here are encouraged to explore their individual interests and work closely with professors on research projects. Students may be able to present the results of their research at national or regional meetings - even publish their works in scientific journals.

As part of NSU's preprofessional programs, the study of chemistry provides excellent preparation for medical, dental, veterinary, or chiropractic school admission. It also prepares students to attend graduate school or work in the chemical industry.

In our program, you'll learn to operate a wide range of modern instruments, including:

• Ultraviolet-visible and infrared (UV and IR) spectrophotometers
• Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS)
• High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and
• A nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrophotometer

NSU chemistry students pursuing the chemistry major have the option of taking courses in analytical, biochemistry, organic, chemical education, environmental, and physical chemistry, or material science.

Chemistry-Forensic Science Specialization

If you're patient, detail-oriented, and like to solve crime puzzles, you can specialize in chemistry-forensic science at NSU to prepare for a career as a forensic chemist. Forensic chemists analyze physical evidence and samples for clues to solve crimes.

If you'd like to work with trace evidence, such as glass, hairs, and gunshot residue, focus on instrumentation skills and take courses in geology, soil chemistry, and materials science.

If you prefer forensic biology, such as DNA analysis, take microbiology, genetics, and biochemistry courses.

If you're interested in obtaining and interpreting toxicology reports, you should study physiology, biochemistry, and chemistry.

Northern is recognized for high-quality student-centered education. In addition to rigorous field-specific academic programs, all students complete a liberal arts and sciences curriculum that prepares students with 21st-century critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills that are equally valued in advanced professional and graduate studies as well as the workforce. Both are taught by faculty scholars who personalize teaching and mentoring and are supported by a welcoming staff. Experiential learning is embedded throughout the curriculum including opportunities to complete undergraduate research, internships, and service-learning.

Northern also offers a comprehensive and highly successful athletics program, sponsoring 15 NCAA Division II intercollegiate varsity sports that compete in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (NSIC), with a supportive fan base and game-day experience that is second to none. You will also enjoy a full college experience in an environment committed to your success in fine and performing arts, student organizations, and intramurals, and by participating in a vibrant schedule of events on campus, study abroad opportunities, and engaging in the wonderful community.

Northern is located on a safe, beautiful campus in the welcoming community of Aberdeen, South Dakota. We’re very fortunate to have an excellent relationship with businesses, organizations, and individuals throughout the community and the entire region.

Points of pride

Learn why Northern is the perfect place to unleash your potential

NSU Points of Pride show you the exceptional campus, supportive community, and outstanding educational opportunities you'll find when you join our pack!

• Recognized as one of the best public baccalaureate colleges in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report for more than a decade
• Named one of the 100 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities (College Consensus)
• Home to nearly 3,500 students from across the country and around the world
• Caring faculty - most with their Ph.Ds - get to know students thanks to an 18-1 student-faculty ratio
• State-of-the-art Regional Science Education Center provides opportunities for cutting-edge undergraduate research
• Supportive community of Aberdeen is ranked as the No. 2 best small college town in the U.S. (USA Today College)
• Brand-new residence halls offer the comforts of home
• A unique partnership with S.D. School for the Blind and Visually Impaired provides an opportunity for hands-on classroom experience
• With more than 50 majors, you'll be prepared for your dream career
• More than 80 percent of students receive some form of financial aid - including ​the WolfPACT, the largest four-year guaranteed scholarship in South Dakota
• Outstanding student involvement, including dozens of recognized student organizations
• More than $150 million in privately funded building projects and scholarships within a decade
• No. 1 national attendance leader in men's and women's basketball for 13 consecutive years

Mission

Northern State University will provide diverse academic, civic, social, and cultural opportunities that prepare students through the liberal arts, professional education, and E-learning for their future endeavors, while also enriching the local and regional community.

Vision

Northern State University will be regionally recognized as a student-centered, diverse community dedicated to excellence in teaching and learning, creativity, and civic and global awareness.

Values

Northern State University’s students, faculty, and staff are committed to the following values:

• Community Building a culture of inclusion, belonging, and collegiality that respects diversity in knowledge, culture, and worldview
• Discovery Pursuing rigor and excellence in education, inquiry, and engagement for the benefit of our students, state, and region
• Integrity Adhering to the highest standards of honesty, fairness, and transparency with a commitment to responsible stewardship of resources