students in a lab

College of Science

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry

Hands-on learning in the classroom and beyond to set you up for success in your field. That’s what you can expect as a chemistry major.

Program Details

Official Degree Name
Bachelor of Science
Format
In Class-Day
In Class-Day
Credit Hours
132
Program Start
Fall Semester
Application Deadline
Apply Anytime
Average Time to Degree
4 Years

Why Get Your Chemistry Degree at DeSales University?

You’ll do more than study inorganic, organic, analytical, physical, and biological chemistry. You’ll practice the skills you need to excel in your dream job.

As a chemistry major, you’ll use cutting-edge instruments in our Hurd Science Center and get opportunities to work and learn outside of the classroom (AKA resume builders). Think: Research projects guided by expert faculty. Internships. Honing your leadership skills in the Natural Science Club or Association for Women in Science. Volunteering to amaze local students with science through our Chemistry Demonstrations program.

students in classroom

Program Highlights

Professional Development Opportunities

  • Build your career (and make memories along the way) by pursuing an internship or working on a research project. You can also stretch your skills by presenting at American Chemical Society National and Local Meetings, or studying food science abroad in another country. Take advantage of hands-on learning opportunities in one of our labs, each equipped with the same equipment you’ll use in your chemistry career.

Active Campus Culture

  • You love being a chemistry major, but we want you to love the DeSales experience too. Join one of our 40+ clubs and organizations – including several science clubs. You can volunteer to tutor local children in science. Participate in popular annual traditions like the Chemistry Demonstrations program.

Personal Support

  • Faculty within our College of Sciences are known for being more than experts – they’re really good teachers. They are approachable and want to help you succeed. Your chemistry professors will mentor you from day one and connect you with personal and professional opportunities for growth. Plus, small class sizes mean that you’re more than just a number – you’re a valued member of our community.

What Will You Study?

Chemistry students are required to participate in a faculty guided research project and/or in an internship at a local chemical or pharmaceutical company. This graduation requirement is typically fulfilled during the junior or senior year.

With a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, you will be ready for personal and career success. You’ll develop critical and analytical thinking abilities and become skilled at problem solving and communication. These are the primary goals of the chemistry program – to teach you these skills and more through a combination of dynamic classroom, lab, and professional experiences.

Required courses include:

  • General Chemistry
  • Inorganic and Material Chemistry
  • Physical Chemistry
  • Organic Chemistry
  • Instrumental Analytical Chemistry
  • Biochemistry

Meet the Faculty

Rodger Berg's headshot
Rodger Berg
Associate Professor
610-282-1100 , x1220
223 Hurd Science Center
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Sara Hayik's headshot
Sara Hayik
Assistant Professor
610-282-1100, x1365
220 Hurd Science Center
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Julie Himmelberger's headshot
Julie Himmelberger
Associate Professor of Biochemistry; Pre-Health Professions Advisor
610-282-1100, x1263
222 Hurd Science Center
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Francis Mayville's headshot
Francis Mayville
Professor
610-282-1100, x1382
221 Hurd Science Center
Steven Sweeney's headshot
Steven Sweeney
Chair, Department of Chemistry and Physics; Assistant Professor
610-282-1100, x2777
210A Hurd Science Center
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Program Tracks & Options

Swipe below to discover more!

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Forensics Science Track

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Track

Forensics Science

The forensic science track combines DeSales’ chemistry and criminal justice programs. With this combination of studies, you can pursue a career in forensic science, work in a lab or continue to graduate school.

Courses You May Take Include:

  • Forensic Psychology
  • Toxicology
  • Molecular and Cell Biology
  • Forensic Psychology
students in forensics lab
students in class

Chemistry Teacher Certification

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Certification

Teacher Certification in Chemistry for Secondary Education

Prepare to guide students in grades 7-12 as a chemistry teacher. To earn this certificate, you should apply to the M.Ed. 4+1 program during your final year of undergraduate study.

Required Courses Include:

  • The Educative Process
  • Cognition and Learning
  • Introduction to Exceptionality
  • Literacy Interventions 4-12
  • Teaching English Learners
student teaching class
students in classroom

Chemistry Minor

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Minor

Chemistry

Add a minor in chemistry to your studies by completing only six courses. This minor is not available to Biochemistry-Molecular Biology majors.

Courses You May Take Include:

  • General Chemistry
  • Organic Chemistry
  • Physical Chemistry
  • Analytical Chemistry
  • Inorganic Chemistry
student in classroom

Outcomes & Careers

With a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, you’ll be prepared for many career paths. You can work in a number of industries, including chemical, pharmaceutical, food (including breweries and wineries), medical, instrumentation, insurance, government and more. Graduates have gone on to work for companies including:

  • Air Products
  • Johnson & Johnson
  • Kraft Foods
  • Just Born
  • Hershey’s
  • B. Braun
  • Occupational Safety and Health Administration
  • DuPont
students in a lab

Application Checklist

  • Application Fee: None
  • Transcripts: Official High School Transcript
  • Standardized Tests: Test-optional, however, an Admissions Interview may be requested.
  • Recommendation: Completed Guidance Counselor Form and Teacher Recommendation Form.
Visit Admissions Tuition & Fees
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Program FAQs

College of Sciences

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