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California State University, Chico
College of Natural Sciences

Chemistry BS

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  • Program Type

    Undergraduate Major

  • Delivery Type

    On Campus

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Chemistry is the science of change. It’s about understanding the building blocks of life—atoms and molecules—and how they affect each other. As a chemist, you can work in the lab to study the properties of matter, including elements and compounds, and the changes they undergo when they react. You will study how chemicals interact with the environment and biological systems, and how they are used in applications.

Your BS in Chemistry prepares you for careers in science, law, business, and health care. You can conduct innovative research to create new medicines, solve crimes using forensic science, or develop better skin care. The possibilities for a rewarding career in chemistry are as broad as the field itself.

Students learn about topics in their General Chemistry I early in the semester.

A Rigorous Science Curriculum

Our comprehensive chemistry program, coupled with laboratory work and classes in mathematics and physics, provides an excellent foundation for careers in science and academia. You will also be prepared to enter professional schools, particularly in medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy.

students learn about separation, identification, and/or analysis of biological materials by modern procedures

A Positive Career Outlook

You can go into medicine, forensics, energy, sustainability, or pursue an advanced degree. Employment of chemists and material scientists is projected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032.

Career opportunities to consider include:

  • Oceanographer
  • Chemical engineer
  • Pharmacologist
  • Forensic scientist
  • Water chemist
  • Research assistant
“
Professors in the chemistry department sparked my interest fundamental organic chemistry and reaction mechanisms.
Alec Greer (Chemistry, ’91)

Learn by Doing

Science isn’t a spectator sport. The best learning happens by doing. You’ll study alongside faculty who have as much expertise outside the classroom as inside. By the time you graduate, you’ll have built the skills and confidence that only comes with experience.

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

    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.

  • Daniel Clark teaches students about separation, identification, and/or analysis of biological materials

    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.

  • Student works on an experiment as instructor observes during an Organic Chemistry Laboratory

    Chemistry Summer Research Institute

    Each summer, we offer 20 students the chance to earn up to $5,000 for a 10-week full-time undergraduate research internship. You will work one-on-one with supportive faculty while taking your first steps in the lab.

Student learns about topics in their General Chemistry

Create Connections

Our SAACS (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

  • Campus view of the science center

    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.

  • Molecule displays are seen in the new Science Building

    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.

  • Students work in their Integrated Chemistry Laboratory I

    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.

  • Students work together during an Organic Chemistry Laboratory

    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.

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