Overview & Academics

The CHEMISTRY program focuses on the scientific study of the composition and behavior of matter, including its micro- and macro-structure, the processes of chemical change, and the theoretical description and laboratory simulation of these phenomena. Students majoring in chemistry have plenty of hands-on work in the laboratory and are encouraged to work with faculty members on an individual research project.

The Chemistry program helps students understand current global issues, such as energy, food, water, health and environmental problems. Extensive training in methodology prepares students to contribute responsible solutions to their communities through a broad range of career options or continuing educational opportunities.

Career Options

• Materials Scientists: Analyze and oversee materials and processes related to natural resources such as paper or wood, textiles, or (Paper, Wood, Textiles, etc.)
• Water Chemists: Analyze water systems including water supplies, wastewater, and water treatment operations.
• Teaching Chemistry in Secondary Schools: Teach the principles of chemistry to junior high or high school students. See also Middle Grades and Secondary Education programs in the NCWU Catalog for requirements pertaining to Education licensure and training.
• Forensics: Work in cutting-edge labs to perform forensic tests on criminal evidence or participate in chemical research on developing new forensic methods.

BA Degree Major Requirements

• General Chemistry I w/Lab
• General Chemistry II w/Lab
• Organic Chemistry I w/Lab
• Organic Chemistry II w/Lab
• Analytical Chemistry w/Lab
• Physical Chemistry w/Lab
• Senior Seminar
• One upper-level Chemistry lecture and Lab
• Physics I
• Calculus I

Minor Requirements

(24 semester hours)

• General Chemistry I w/Lab
• General Chemistry II w/Lab
• Three additional upper-level Chemistry courses including lab

BS Degree Major Requirements

• General Chemistry I w/Lab
• General Chemistry II w/Lab
• Organic Chemistry w/Lab
• Organic Chemistry II w/Lab
• Analytical Chemistry w/Lab
• Physical Chemistry w/Lab
• Senior Seminar
• Chemistry – 8 semester hours in any upper-level lecture w/Labs
• Chemistry – Two semester hours of independent research
• General Physics I w/Lab
• General Physics II w/Lab
• Calculus I

Minor Requirements

(24 semester hours)

• General Chemistry I w/Lab
• General Chemistry II w/Lab
• Three additional upper-level Chemistry courses including lab