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Academics
Seven colleges focused on subjects from agriculture and business to science and the arts. Nearly 400 undergraduate majors and minors, graduate degrees, and professional certifications.
Admissions
We’re regularly named among U.S. News & World Report’s Top Public Universities in the West. Our historic campus is within walking and biking distance of Chico’s charming, tree-lined downtown. Our graduates go on to become leaders in their careers and communities.
Cost and Aid
A Chico State education is more affordable than almost any other four-year college. And our students graduate with some of the lowest debt in the country—so you can focus on your future, not loan repayment plans.
Student Life
When you’re a Wildcat, you’ll get so much more from your time here than simply a degree. You’re going to learn about yourself, your community, and the things that inspire you to step forward. Student life at Chico State is all about being active and engaged—building skills and memories you’ll carry with you well after graduation.
Athletics

College of Natural Sciences

Chemistry BA

Program Type
Undergraduate Major
Delivery Type
On Campus

Request Information About This Program

Chemistry and Biochemistry Department

Wondering whether a degree in chemistry might be right for you? Contact us with questions or set up a conversation with one of our advisors.

Phone: 530-898-5259
Email: chem@csuchico.edu

Our BA program will turn your love of science into a rewarding career as an educator, writer, or more. Our flexible science curriculum provides a solid foundation in chemistry while you also explore other interests or complete the requirements for the single-subject teaching credential.

Aa a chemist, you will study the properties of matter, including elements and compounds, and the changes they undergo during reactions. You will also learn how these chemicals interact with the environment and biological systems and how they are used, including in energy generation.

Student learns about topics in their General Chemistry

A Flexible Science Curriculum

Gain a solid foundation in chemistry while also exploring other disciplines. You'll take courses in physics, biochemistry, and organic and inorganic chemistry, and have the flexibility to take courses in other subjects, including prerequisites for the single-subject credential program.

View Curriculum

Student helped by instructor to synthesize beta amino acids as part of the Chemistry Summer Research Institute

Energize Your Potential

Our alumni are among the most sought-after teachers in school districts throughout California, many of them serving in diverse, high-needs rural and urban communities. A BA in chemistry is your pathway to become a high school chemistry teacher and a springboard for careers as a writer or editor of scientific publications, sales representative, or admittance into advanced degree programs.

Learn by Doing

General Chemistry Studio Lab
Our introductory chemistry course is taught in a studio lab format, where you have a fully integrated lecture/lab experience with the same instructor, improving your learning and enjoyment of chemistry.
A Culture of Connection
Nearly all our courses have free specially designated tutors and supplemented instruction to ensure maximum student learning and our building was designed with open spaces to encourage student collaboration.
Chemistry Summer Research Institute
Around 20 students each summer can complete a paid internship over a 10-week period. You will work 1-on-1 with supportive faculty while taking your first steps in the lab.

Student works biosynthesis of chalcone molecules in pursuit of tagging a fluorescence to nematocidal chalcones

Create Connections

Our Student Affiliates of the American Chemical Society Club has received recognition as an outstanding club from the American Chemistry Society for many years in a row. As a member, you will have access to tutoring, host and attend events like the National Chemistry Week and High School Chemistry Day, and network with peers.

Science on Display

Science Building
Science is woven into our building’s design. Opened in 2021, our state-of-the-art facility puts science on display. It features collaborative spaces, research opportunities inside and outside, and interdisciplinary labs. Tour our space.
Club Rooms
Our SAACS Club has a dedicated space for students to meet. We understand the importance of student engagement and created designated club rooms for each department to allow students to meet and form bonds.
NMR Room and Instrument Room
Our two instrument rooms are equipped with over $1 million worth of modern analytical equipment, so you can get hands-on experience using industry-standard technology in your labs and research projects.
Shared Research Lab Space
We have three fully stocked research labs. Nearly all seniors do independent research projects with one or more faculty in organic chemistry, physical, materials chemistry, medicinal chemistry, and biochemistry.