Chemistry is the study of all things chemical, such as chemical processes, chemical compositions and chemical manipulations. It is an exciting time in the field of Chemistry — science and technology career opportunities are seeing unprecedented growth. Opportunities to work as a researcher, chemical engineer, forensic chemist, pharmaceutical chemist, biotechnologist, or as a chemist within areas such as law, defense, public health and the environment, abound. The SCSU Chemistry and Biochemistry Department offers bachelor's and master's courses of study; learner outcomes meet American Chemical Society (ACS) requirements. Students are encouraged to speak to their faculty advisors in order to meet the requirements of an ACS certified degree. In all Chemistry degree options, students have the opportunity to expand their knowledge base by taking elective Chemistry courses in areas such as Biochemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, Drug Discovery, Pharmacology, Instrumental Analysis, Computational Chemistry, Chemical Education, and Environmental Chemistry, among others. Students can also opt to and are highly encouraged to use their elective Chemistry courses to pursue research with a faculty member.
The B.S. Chemistry with 7-12 teaching certification is intended to train future Chemistry teachers. This program has similar requirements as the B.S. Chemistry program, but students generally take fewer cognate courses and are required to take Chemical Education. Students also must take a number of educational courses from the College of Education. Chemistry teachers are always in high demand. Teaching Chemistry at the 7-12 level is also an excellent way to shape the future of the field. A student who graduates with the B.S. Chemistry with 7- 12 teaching certification is also just as qualified to pursue other careers in chemistry, should they decide to not pursue teaching later on in life.