Chemistry, the central science, is an excellent springboard to careers in many specialized areas - from biotechnology and materials science to environmental protection. About 60% of graduates will work in industries ranging from multinational corporations to small entrepreneurial firms, with the balance in academic, biomedical, and public sector institutions. Most chemists are involved in either research and development or production of chemicals and materials. Many laboratory chemists perform analyses for biomedical, forensic, environmental, and production quality control purposes. Others are responsible for facility environmental health and product applications.
The ACS-Certified concentration is valuable because qualified chemists require a broad base of both scientific knowledge and professional laboratory skills. This concentration ensures that students have met a national standard of professional training in Chemistry. This is highly beneficial to students who are preparing for graduate study in Chemistry and to students planning to enter the chemical profession. Students receive comprehensive laboratory experience beyond the introductory chemistry laboratory. The ACS-Certified concentration also requires a minimum of four credit hours of independent research (CHEM 290 and CHEM 490 ). Prior approval from the faculty member who will supervise this research is required before registering for these research courses. The Department recommends that students take CHEM 290 during the junior year and CHEM 490 during the senior year, but some students choose to begin their research projects even before their junior year.
The Biochemistry concentration provides students with a strong background in both Chemistry and Biology. This opens up a variety of opportunities for employment and graduate/professional studies. The Biochemistry concentration will prepare students for admission into graduate school, Allied Health (including Cardiopulmonary Science, Medical Technology, Nursing, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, etc.), as well as baccalaureate-level positions in research, teaching, and sales and marketing. Specific areas of professional specialization include Agriculture, Biochemistry, Cellular Biology, Genetics, Environmental Science, Epigenetics, Food Technology, Forestry, Industrial Hygiene, Pest Management, Microbiology, Pharmaceuticals, Molecular Biology, and Public Health. Individuals pursuing careers in medicine must have an especially strong understanding of Biochemistry.