Department of Chemistry and Physics

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The Department of Chemistry and Physics offers two degree programs: Bachelor of Science (BS) in Chemistry and a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering (BChE) as a 3 + 2 dual program in conjunction with North Carolina State University. As a central scientific discipline, chemistry impacts human life in many ways and the understanding of chemistry is critical for solving the world’s most important problems. The department offers five different concentrations to students seeking the BS degree in chemistry. The General Chemistry concentration is a traditional chemistry track that prepares students for graduate school in chemistry (or related fields) or a career in the chemical industry. The Chemistry Entrepreneurship concentration is intended for students who wish to pursue the fields of chemistry and business; it contains a solid foundation in chemistry and an introduction to business and entrepreneurship coursework. The Materials Science concentration is ideal for students interested in the growing field of nanotechnology and materials on all scales; it prepares students for a variety of graduate programs in engineering, industry, and related fields. The Pre-Pharmacy concentration is designed to prepare students for success in professional pharmacy degree programs. The Pre-Health concentration gives students the foundation they need for careers in medicine, dentistry, optometry, physical therapy, physician’s assistant, veterinary medicine, and other health related careers. The BChE degree prepares students to work in a wide range of industries to solve technical problems, create and improve products, or for graduate study in chemical engineering. The minors in chemistry, physics, and materials science are designed for students who would like additional coursework in chemistry, physics, and materials science. Other course offerings by the department include comprehensive courses in physics, physical science, astronomy, geology, and engineering, which prepare students for further studies in physics, engineering, and other related fields. The department also offers courses as a service to other disciplines as an integral part of the university’s core education requirements.

Learning Outcomes

1. Students will have a firm foundation in the fundamentals and application of current chemical and scientific theories.
2. Students will develop problem-solving and analytical skills.
3. Students will be able to communicate scientific results orally and in writing.
4. Students will know and follow the proper procedures and regulations for safe handling and use of chemicals.
5. Students will be able to operate and interpret data from instrumentation.
6. Students will be able to use library resources to research chemical topics and chemical techniques.

Programs

• Chemistry with a concentration in Chemistry Entrepreneurship, B.S.
• Chemistry with a concentration in General Chemistry, B.S.
• Chemistry with a concentration in Materials Science, B.S.
• Chemistry with a concentration in Pre-Health, B.S.
• Chemistry with a concentration in Pre-Pharmacy, B.S.
• Engineering 3+2 Dual Degree Program (Chemistry and Physics)

• Chemistry Minor
• Chemistry, Biotechnology Minor
• Materials Science Minor
• Physics Minor

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