Undergraduate Program - Degree Options

Major in Chemistry

 

Majors have the opportunity to pursue the Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Chemistry.  The requirements to reach the BA or BS degree have been set forth by the University. The Chemistry requirements for each degree are the same. 

 

Students have the option to further specialize their major by choosing from one of the following programs:

Professional (certified by the American Chemical Society) - The traditional chemistry major; this path offers an in depth look into the many distinct areas of chemistry. 

The following Interdisciplinary Programs couple the study of chemistry with another exciting field or specialty. 

Each of the programs outlined above are appropriate for pre-medical students.  For more information please consult the Premedical Advising Office.

 

Sample Schedules
Scheduling of courses in the sciences is complicated not only by required prerequisites, but also by course availability.  Samples of course schedules for the Professional and Biological Chemistry Degree Programs are provided.  Several possible variations exist, therefore use these samples only as a starting point.

Study Abroad
Study abroad is possible even as a chemistry major.  Please contact Professor Ernst and the Study Abroad Office for more information.

Statistics on Chemistry Majors
The most recent snapshot of 46 spring graduates shows 34 biological, 7 professional and 5 business program majors.  Fours students graduated with Honors by taking Honors coursework and completing a research-based thesis.

Minor in Chemistry


A chemistry minor requires a minimum of 20 semester hours of chemistry courses numbered 1210 or above, including two 3000-level or above courses (6 semester hours) in chemistry. A minimum of 6 semester hours must be taken in the Chemistry Department at the University of Utah. In the absence of a waiver from the Chemistry advisor, the 3000-level or above classes must be taken at the University of Utah. Online chemistry courses are generally not accepted for a chemistry minor. The GPA for chemistry courses taken at Utah must be 2.00 or greater, with at least a C- in each of the above-described classes, and at least a C for any transfer course. Students are encouraged to take a 5000-level advanced lab course, and are also strongly encouraged to notify the Chemistry advisor promptly when they decide to pursue a chemistry minor.