B.S. in Chemistry
With a Bachelor of Science in chemistry from VCU, you’ll gain major expertise in the concepts and principles of chemistry.
You’ll develop the written and oral skills needed to explain chemical phenomena, become proficient in the laboratory and master scientific data processing. When you graduate, you’ll be ready to apply your skills in research and development, quality control, environment and health, law and policy, manufacturing, education – yes, there are a lot of possibilities!
Some of our graduates have successfully gone out in the workforce while others have furthered their education and pursued advanced degrees (Ph.D., M.D., D.V.M., Pharm.D.) in chemistry, biochemistry, medicinal chemistry, chemical biology and pharmacology, as well as attending medical, veterinary, pharmacy and dental schools.
Concentrations
The Department of Chemistry offers five areas of concentration for completing the Bachelor of Science in chemistry.
Biochemistry
The biochemistry concentration combines core foundational backgrounds from the chemical and biological sciences. Through rigorous coursework and hands-on laboratory experiences, students are prepared for careers in health sciences, biochemistry research and the biotechnology industry, and advanced studies in biochemistry, molecular biology or related disciplines.
Chemical Modeling
The chemical modeling concentration combines interests in mathematics, computers and chemistry. Students gain an understanding in molecular visualization to a wide range of chemical and biological applications. Typical career pathways include graduate study in pharmacy and medicinal and positions in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industries.
Chemical Science
The chemical science concentration provides students with the maximum flexibility to select courses from other disciplines of interest while granting a solid background in chemical knowledge. Typical career pathways are health-related science occupations, teaching careers, and business-related professions such as product development and sales.
Professional Chemist
The professional chemist concentration is a comprehensive preparation in all the core areas of chemistry through rigorous coursework and hands-on laboratory training. Students may pursue independent research and American Chemical Society certification. Career pathways include advanced degrees in chemistry and employment in the chemical and pharmaceutical industry.
Professional Chemist with Honors
Students in the professional chemist with honors concentration gain rich research experience under the guidance of one of VCU’s outstanding and internationally renowned chemistry professors. Students complete an honors thesis that includes a presentation of the research results to the entire chemistry department and the potential to publish in a scientific journal.
Study in Our New STEM Building
Our brand new, 169,000-square-foot building is dedicated to all things STEM, including chemistry. Students will have the opportunity to learn in in state-of-the-art labs, classrooms and shared study spaces.