Chemistry (BS)

Print Degree Planner (opens a new window) |

Offered by the Department of Chemistry , College of Arts and Sciences , the Chemistry (BS) is appropriate for students who want to explore the full breadth of chemistry: synthesis, analysis, and characterization of chemicals from small molecules to macromolecules and materials and their influence over health and the environment. Chemistry majors will be well prepared for private sector work or further training in graduate school or in the medical professions. The department encourages students interested in forensic science, food chemistry, or cosmetics to major in chemistry. Completion of the Chemistry (BS) degree is accredited by the American Chemical Society.

Admission to the Program

Formal admission to the major requires a grade point average of 2.00 (on a 4.00 scale). The department counsels first-year and transfer students, as well as declared chemistry majors.

University Requirements

120 credit hours with minimum 2.00 cumulative GPA (Undergraduate Academic Regulation 2 )
Completion of all requirements for a major (Undergraduate Academic Regulation 9 )

AU Core Requirements

Completion of AU Core foundation requirements (Undergraduate Academic Regulation 8.2-8.6 )
Completion of AU Core Habits of Mind requirements (Undergraduate Academic Regulation 8.7 )
Completion of AU Core integrative course requirements (Undergraduate Academic Regulation 8.8-8.11 )

For additional information, see AU Core Curriculum .

Major Requirements

69 credit hours with grades of C or better, including at least 18 credit hours at or above 300-level

Course Requirements

Math and Physics (20 credit hours)

Capstone (3 credit hours)

CHEM-472 Experimental Biological Chemistry II (3)

Combined Chemistry (BS) and Chemistry (MS)

American University offers students the opportunity to earn both undergraduate and graduate degrees through its combined bachelor’s/master’s programs. See Admission to a Combined Bachelor’s / Master’s Program and Combined Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees for more information.

In addition to meeting the minimum university requirements for combined bachelor’s/master’s programs:

Admission is open to undergraduates whose overall grade point average and grade point average in chemistry courses is 3.00 or higher. Applications must be accompanied by two letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose. Students should discuss their interest in the program with members of the faculty before submitting a formal application. Interested students are encouraged to enroll in CHEM-490 Independent Study Project in Chemistry (1-6) to conduct independent study research before applying
Undergraduate students may apply up to 9 credit hours of approved graduate-level coursework in chemistry and/or STAT-614 Statistical Methods (3) to satisfy the requirements for both degrees