Undergraduate Programs

Kent State University’s Department of Chemistry offers a full range of chemistry degree programs at the undergraduate level. Our faculty, which includes five recipients of College and University teaching awards, are dedicated to providing a high quality undergraduate experience for our students.

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Chemistry offers concentrations in Chemistry (certified by the American Chemical Society), Biological Chemistry and Materials Chemistry. Students pursuing each of these concentrations follow an in-depth program of study in the chemical sciences which also includes courses in related sciences and mathematics. These concentrations provide an excellent preparation for students wishing to pursue careers in chemistry, biochemistry, and materials science (respectively). The Biological Chemistry concentration offers an excellent preparation for admission to medical school and also is an attractive major for those students interested in other pre-professional programs. Opportunities also exist to pursue an accelerated combined B.S./M.S. degree in chemistry, where graduate-level coursework can simultaneously satisfy some undergraduate degree requirements.

By requiring fewer science courses than the B.S. curriculum, the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Chemistry allows students to use the flexibility of more elective hours to combine an undergraduate chemistry degree with career preparation in other fields.

An interdisciplinary Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Biotechnology is administered jointly by the Departments of Chemistry and Biological Sciences. This program is designed to provide a strong academic foundation in biological sciences and chemistry, training in the various biotechnologies and a solid understanding of their application in industry and biomedicine.

The Minor in Chemistry provides a more limited exposure to the field of chemistry for students pursuing other major programs of study.

All students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in chemistry at Kent State University complete a series of liberal education requirements in English composition, social sciences, humanities, fine arts, and foreign language. Undergraduate research is actively encouraged for all chemistry majors and opportunities exist for study abroad through our overseas exchange programs. Several active chemistry student organizations provide excellent opportunities for social and professional interactions among chemistry majors. Well-qualified students can obtain support for their studies through departmental as well as University scholarships. Such students are also encouraged to graduate with honors by pursuing honors work and/or a senior honors thesis through the Honors College.

Questions concerning the Chemistry Department’s undergraduate programs should be directed to Arla McPherson (email chemug@kent.edu; tel. 330-672-2405).