To offer the broadest possible service and to meet the needs of a full range of students at the University, the Chemistry major provides a strong background in all major areas: physical, inorganic, organic, and analytical chemistry; biochemistry; and instrumental analysis.

Students are given the opportunity to concentrate in one or more of these areas by taking advanced courses in areas of specific interest. Students are required to learn to use instruments commonly encountered in chemistry. Small-sized classes are prevalent in all Chemistry courses, and students are taught by faculty in both lecture and laboratory. Special topics courses are offered periodically to provide students the opportunity to broaden their background in chemistry.

Chemistry majors are able to pursue many different avenues after graduation, including graduate school in chemistry and related areas, employment in government or industry, professional school (e.g., medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, law, library science), or secondary school teaching. There are many employment opportunities available to Chemistry majors, including those in water pollution, forensic chemistry, environmental chemistry, molecular biology, research and development, quality assurance, and genetic engineering. Students planning careers in industry are encouraged to take courses in business and finance as part of their undergraduate program.