Major Requirements and Options
Chemistry Undergraduate Studies
Our curriculum is designed for students seeking a liberal education, as well as for those requiring more specialized training and skills. These courses provide the necessary foundation for students planning careers as chemists and biochemists, for those interested in furthering their education through advanced degrees in chemistry, biochemistry, and related sciences, as well as for those in other professional fields.
Two basic curricula are offered for chemistry majors:
- The American Chemical Society (ACS) certified degree program in Chemistry is available
for those students seeking technical positions in chemistry, as well as for those
planning to attend graduate school, or
- A Biochemistry track is available for students strongly interested in the interface of chemistry and biomedical or biological sciences, especially for students anticipating going to graduate school in medical sciences, biochemistry, biophysics, or other life sciences.
Students pursuing a degree in Chemistry must also have a minor in another discipline.
Note: All first-time freshmen must successfully complete CAS 100: First Year Experience as a degree requirement. Students must enroll during their first term at USA, except for summer-entry students who must enroll in the fall semester following entry. CH 150 will fulfill the technology proficiency requirement.
Requirements for a Major in Chemistry
ACS Certified Track
A minimum of 40 semester hours in Chemistry beyond the CH 132 and CH 132L course level as listed below:
| Course | Hours |
|---|---|
| CH 131, 131L | 3, 1 hours |
| CH 132, 132L |
3, 1 hours |
| CH 150 |
2 hours |
| CH 265, 265L |
3, 1 hours |
| CH 201, 201L |
3, 1 hours |
| CH 202, 202L |
3, 1 hours |
| CH 301, 301L |
3, 1 hours |
| CH 302, 302L |
3, 1 hours |
| CH 401, 401L |
3, 2 hours |
| CH 440 |
3 hours |
| CH 465, 465L |
3, 2 hours |
| CH 492 |
1 hour |
| CH 394/494 |
4 hours |
Mathematics: Two semesters of Calculus (MA 125, MA 126) are required.
Physics: Students are to select one of the following options. Option 1: PH 201 and PH 202; Option 2: PH 114, PH 115, and MA 227; Option 3: PH 114, PH 115, and PH 201 with approval of the physics department chair; Option 4: PH 114, PH 115, and PH 202 with approval of the physics department chair.
Biochemistry Track
A minimum of 39 semester hours in Chemistry beyond the CH 132 and CH 132L course level, as listed below:
| Course | Hours |
|---|---|
| CH 131, 131L | 3, 1 hours |
| CH 132, 132L | 3, 1 hours |
| CH 150 | 2 hours |
| CH 265, 265L | 3, 1 hours |
| CH 201, 201L | 3, 1 hours |
| CH 202, 202L | 3, 1 hours |
| CH 300, 300L or CH 301, 301L or CH 302, 302L |
3, 1 hours |
| CH 440 | 3 hours |
| CH 441, 443 | 3, 2 hours |
| CH 465, 465L |
3, 2 hours |
| CH 492 |
1 hour |
| CH 394/ 494 |
4 hours |
Electives: In addition to these courses above, a student must choose one (1) other 300/400 level chemistry, physical science, or life science course (no less than 3 hrs) with prior approval of their advisor and department chair to satisfy the degree program requirements.
Mathematics: Two semesters of Calculus (MA 125, MA 126) are required.
Physics: Students are to select one of the following options. Option 1: PH 201 and PH 202; Option 2: PH 114, PH 115, and MA 227; Option 3: PH 114, PH 115, and PH 201 with approval of the physics department chair; Option 4: PH 114, PH 115, and PH 202 with approval of the physics department chair.
Students in the Biochemistry Track who desire ACS Certification of their degree must take CH 401 and CH 401 L as their elective course.
Chemistry Senior Thesis Program
This program is designed to stimulate analytical and critical thinking, offering motivated and focused undergraduate students the opportunity to develop research and communication skills in preparation for a graduate or professional career. To apply for admission to the program, a student must meet specified criteria. Please see your Academic Bulletin for details.