By continuing to use this site, you agree to the use of cookies in accordance with our privacy policy.

Chemistry B.S.

Study analytical, biological, inorganic, organic and physical chemistry in lectures, seminars and laboratory-style courses. Choose from four chemistry degree programs based on your unique interests.
A person wearing a lab coat and safety glasses holding a lab dish
Quyen Pham ’25 stepped into a Syracuse chemistry lab as a high school student pursuing a summer internship, solidifying her interest in the field. “There are so many opportunities here. I can study abroad and participate in different labs," she says.

About this Program

  • Customize your curriculum by choosing to pursue either a B.A. or B.S. in chemistry and selecting a specialized track, including ones in medicinal chemistry and biological chemistry.
  • Make social connections by participating in first-year orientation events specifically for chemistry majors.
  • Learn from your peers and pursue special professional development opportunities by joining Syracuse’s student chapter of the American Chemical Society and/or Alpha Chi Sigma, a professional chemistry society for undergraduate students.
  • Use cutting-edge, research-grade instrumentation in both freshman-level and upper division lab courses.
  • Learn about the latest advances in chemistry via weekly seminars with visiting professors from around the world.
  • Contribute to important chemical research by joining one of our faculty’s research groups as early as your first year.
  • Present your research findings at national or regional chemistry meetings, publish your research, and pursue national and regional honors.
  • Receive special distinction that is given to students who maintain a strong GPA, conduct research and write a thesis during their senior year.
  • Prepare for the job market, graduate school or medical school, joining recent graduates who are working at Pfizer, Merck, Moderna, Regeneron, Xerox, and Estee Lauder or continuing their education at Cornell, Duke, Harvard, University of North Carolina, Tufts, Yale and, of course, Syracuse University.

Program Information

Degree Type

Major

Outcome

B.S.

Modality

In-person

College or School

Career Path

Exterior of Hall of languages building

College of Arts and Sciences

The College of Arts and Sciences (A&S) is Syracuse University’s first and largest college. As the home of the liberal arts, our internationally recognized programs provide the cornerstone of a Syracuse University education with 50+ majors in the natural sciences and mathematics, the humanities and the social sciences (in partnership with the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs).
Explore the College

Curriculum

Coursework for the B.S. in chemistry includes a focus on laboratory experience and research, and is designed to prepare students for advanced degrees in chemistry and other sciences and for careers in the health-related professions.

  • Develop quantitative and qualitative problem solving skills in core disciplines of chemistry.
  • Develop accurate and safe laboratory techniques, recognize hazards and wastes and disseminate results.
  • Train on modern instrumentation, interpret results, analyze data.
  • Communicate effectively, work in small groups and perform database literature reviews.
  • Design experiments using ethical behavior.
  • Understand the impact of chemistry on society.

The decision to pursue a B.A. or B.S. in chemistry depends mostly on the careers you’re considering. If you're considering a medical career, a B.S. degree is a good choice. There are two options: 1) B.S. in chemistry, an American Chemical Society-approved program, the most versatile degree for students looking to work in a range of industries or pursue graduate degrees; 2) B.S. in medicinal chemistry, ideal for students pursuing professional degrees or careers in biotech, government or medicine.

If you're considering double majoring or just want a more general education in chemistry, then the B.A. in chemistry is right for you. With fewer required courses, you’ll have more time to explore chemistry course offerings alongside courses in other academic areas. As a B.A. student, you'll choose between the chemistry or biological chemistry track options, depending on your interests.

  • Organic Chemistry Laboratory
  • Forensic Chemical Analysis
  • Biology of Cancer
  • Proteins and Nucleic Acids Laboratory
  • Calculus I

Extracurricular Opportunities

Student organization

American Chemical Society Student Chapter

The Syracuse University American Chemical Society Student Chapter helps foster relationships between chemistry majors, minors and faculty and promotes STEM education within our community. The chapter frequently volunteers at the Museum of Science and Technology, the Boys and Girls Club and more.

People sitting around a table.
Campus facilities

Center for Science and Technology

The Department of Chemistry is located in the Center for Science and Technology on the eastern edge of campus. Laboratories are equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation, including an isothermal titration calorimeter, NMR and X-ray crystallography facilities and ultrafast laser laboratory.

Exterior of building with sign
Student organization

Rebecca Lee Pre-Health Society

The Rebecca Lee Pre-Health Society—named after Rebecca Lee Crumpler, the first African American woman in the US to earn an MD—is a student organization that promotes and encourages a diverse group of pre-health students to attend professional health schools, including those for medicine, physician assistant, physical therapy, public health, pharmacy and other health careers. Students from all majors are welcome to join this organization.

Learn more about this program

Start your application
Start your academic journey with us.
Explore affordability
Learn about grants and scholarships.
Schedule a tour
Plan your visit and get ready to make yourself at home.