Future Students

Academics

Chemistry

College of Sciences


 

QUICK JUMP
  Chemistry
  Study Options
  Requirements and Core Courses
  Careers in Chemistry
  Suggested Strengths, Interests, and Preparation
  Scholarships and Financial Aid
  Campus Organizations and Activities
  Learn More About Chemistry
  Contact Information

Chemistry

Chemistry is the fundamental science of the nature of substances and the changes occurring in them. Since chemical reactions are the basis of all life on Earth, everything we are or do depends in one way or another on chemistry.
• Offered at WSU: Bachelor of science, minor, master of science, master of arts, doctorate
&3149; Available at: Pullman, Tri-Cities (M.S. only)

Study Options

Students can focus on three specific areas of interest within the chemistry major. All lead to degrees certified by the American Chemical Society and are ideal for students interested in graduate or professional school.
• General Chemistry (requirements listed below) provides the broadest training in all aspects of chemistry.
• Environmental Chemistry focuses on identifying and measuring chemical compositions in rocks and minerals, natural waters, and the atmosphere.
• Materials Chemistry emphasizes a molecular understanding of the chemical, electrical, optical, and magnetic properties of materials.

NOTE: The Honors College curriculum can be integrated with any undergraduate major.

Requirements and Core Courses

—Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
In addition to the classes listed below, students must complete University general education, college, and department requirements, as well as approved science and degree electives. Some approved substitutions may be made. In order to graduate, students must meet the requirements described in the appropriate, official General Catalog. (Consult with academic advisor for specific details.)

GENERAL CHEMISTRY OPTION
Chem 105 & 106—Principles of Chemistry I
Chem 106—Chemical Principles II or Chem 116 Honors (by invitation)
Math 171, 172, & 273—Calculus I, II, & III
Biol 106 or 107—Introductory Biology
Chem 345, 346, & 347—Organic Chemistry I, II, & Lab
Phys 201 & 202—Physics for Scientists and Engineers I & II
Math 220—Introductory Linear Algebra
Chem 220 & 222—Quantitative Analysis & Lab
MBios 303—Introductory Biochemistry
Chem 331 & 333—Physical Chemistry I & Lab
Chem 332 & 334—Physical Chemistry II & Lab
Chem 398—Undergraduate Seminar
Chem 499—Special Problems
Chem 425 & 426—Quantitative Instrumental Analysis & Lab
Chem 401—Modern Inorganic Chemistry
Chem 410—Advanced Synthesis and Characterization
Chem 495—Directed Research

NOTE: Students should consult the General Catalog for course planning and must meet course requirements as outlined in the General Catalog in order to graduate.

Careers in Chemistry

A major in chemistry prepares students for a variety of careers in industry, education, ecology, and public service or for graduate study and research in chemistry and many related fields. An American Chemical Society survey showed the unemployment rate among chemists at approximately half that of the general population.  

Careers in the chemistry field include quality control specialist, toxicologist, industrial chemist, technical sales, museum scientist, patent researcher, medical technologist, nutritionist, teacher, science librarian, food scientist, dentist, forensic chemist, environmental consultant, water purity chemist, professor, pharmaceutical chemist, biotechnology researcher, medical doctor, and technical writer.

Suggested Strengths, Interests, and Preparation

• Essential high school preparation includes writing, mathematics, and science through the chemistry level.
• Calculus and advanced chemistry are highly recommended.
• Students should take two years of a foreign language in high school, which will also meet a WSU graduation requirement.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

• For 2001-2002, the Washington State University department of chemistry awarded more than $12,000 in departmental scholarships to our undergraduate students. The department also hires many work-study students to work in laboratories.
• A variety of federal, state, and University-sponsored programs are available to assist qualified students with educational costs. For more information, contact the Office of Financial Aid.

Campus Organizations and Activities

The active undergraduate Chemistry Club—sponsored by the American Chemical Society—provides student mentoring, sponsors social events, and develops programs for high school and junior high school students.

Learn More About Chemistry

To learn more about chemistry, visit the American Chemical Society Web page.

Contact Information
Department of Chemistry
Washington State University
PO Box 644630
Pullman, WA 99164-4630
Phone: 509-335-1516
Fax: 509-335-8867  
pjb@wsu.edu
 

Strengths of the Program

  • The chemistry department is nationally known for its excellent undergraduate preparation and state-of-the-art lab facilities.
  • WSU graduates have a high success rate in landing employment and being accepted into recognized graduate and professional schools.
  • Work with a faculty of recognized scientists who provide opportunities to conduct independent research and present work at national meetings.
  • WSU's chemistry department has produced several winners of the prestigious national Goldwater Scholarship.
  • Learn from experienced faculty who publish their research in journals and attract more than $2.5 million in external funding each year.
  • You can join a math, science, and engineering community residence hall at WSU Pullman—share classes with your neighbors, study together, get free tutoring, and use the hall’s computer lab.
Office of Enrollment Management, PO Box 641067, Washington State University, Pullman WA 99164-1067, 888-GO TO WSU (888-468-6978), Contact Us