Program Overview

Chemistry B.S.

Study analytical, biological, inorganic, organic and physical chemistry in lectures, seminars and laboratory-style courses. Choose from four chemistry degree programs based on your unique interests.

About this Program

• Customize your curriculum by choosing to pursue either a B.A. or B.S. in chemistry and selecting a specialized track, including ones in medicinal chemistry and biological chemistry.
• Make social connections by participating in first-year orientation events specifically for chemistry majors.
• Learn from your peers and pursue special professional development opportunities by joining Syracuse’s student chapter of the American Chemical Society and/or Alpha Chi Sigma, a professional chemistry society for undergraduate students.
• Use cutting-edge, research-grade instrumentation in both freshman-level and upper division lab courses.
• Learn about the latest advances in chemistry via weekly seminars with visiting professors from around the world.
• Contribute to important chemical research by joining one of our faculty’s research groups as early as your first year.
• Present your research findings at national or regional chemistry meetings, publish your research, and pursue national and regional honors.
• Receive special distinction that is given to students who maintain a strong GPA, conduct research and write a thesis during their senior year.
• Prepare for the job market, graduate school or medical school, joining recent graduates who are working at Pfizer, Merck, Moderna, Regeneron, Xerox, and Estee Lauder or continuing their education at Cornell, Duke, Harvard, University of North Carolina, Tufts, Yale and, of course, Syracuse University.

Program Information

• Degree Type: B.S.
• Major: Chemistry
• Outcome: Science and Mathematics, STEM
• Modality: In-person
• College or School: College of Arts and Sciences

Curriculum

Coursework for the B.S. in chemistry includes a focus on laboratory experience and research, and is designed to prepare students for advanced degrees in chemistry and other sciences and for careers in the health-related professions.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Develop quantitative and qualitative problem solving skills in core disciplines of chemistry.
• Develop accurate and safe laboratory techniques, recognize hazards and wastes and disseminate results.
• Train on modern instrumentation, interpret results, analyze data.
• Communicate effectively, work in small groups and perform database literature reviews.
• Design experiments using ethical behavior.
• Understand the impact of chemistry on society.

Degree Options

The decision to pursue a B.A. or B.S. in chemistry depends mostly on the careers you’re considering. If you're considering a medical career, a B.S. degree is a good choice. There are two options: 1) B.S. in chemistry, an American Chemical Society-approved program, the most versatile degree for students looking to work in a range of industries or pursue graduate degrees; 2) B.S. in medicinal chemistry, ideal for students pursuing professional degrees or careers in biotech, government or medicine.

If you're considering double majoring or just want a more general education in chemistry, then the B.A. in chemistry is right for you. With fewer required courses, you’ll have more time to explore chemistry course offerings alongside courses in other academic areas. As a B.A. student, you'll choose between the chemistry or biological chemistry track options, depending on your interests.

Sample Courses

• Organic Chemistry Laboratory
• Forensic Chemical Analysis
• Biology of Cancer
• Proteins and Nucleic Acids Laboratory
• Calculus I

Extracurricular Opportunities

• Student organization: American Chemical Society Student Chapter
• Campus facilities: Center for Science and Technology
• Student organization: Rebecca Lee Pre-Health Society

Related Programs

• Biochemistry B.S.
• Biotechnology B.S.
• Chemistry B.A.
• Forensic Science B.A.
• Forensic Science B.S.
• Physics B.S.