Chemistry, BS

The Bachelor of Science in chemistry is recommended for those students who seek employment as a chemist/biochemist or for those who intend to study chemistry in graduate school. Research is required for the BS degree.

chemistry students

Students learn to perform and design chemical experiments by using modern instrumentation (including NMR, FT-IR, GC-MS, and HPLC) and computers in a well-equipped laboratory where they can observe chemical phenomena for themselves. Some examples of the scope of chemistry application at UD include: synthesis of polymers and drugs; analyses of foods; study of environmental hazards; and calculations of energy values of molecular orbitals.

 

Degree Requirements

42 credit hours in chemistry to include:

  • General Chemistry 1303/1103, 1304/1104
  • Analytical Chemistry 2414/2014
  • Organic Chemistry 3321/3121, 3322/3122
  • Physical Chemistry 3331/3131, 3332/3132
  • Chemical Literature 3151
  • Chemistry Seminar 4153
  • Biochemistry 3335/3135
  • Instrumental Analysis 4454 and four credits of student research.
  • Also: General Biology 1311/1111; General Physics 2311/2111, 2312/2112; Calculus 1404, 1411

Comprehensive Examination

All chemistry and biochemistry majors must pass a general written comprehensive examination. The examination consists of questions in general chemistry, analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry and biochemistry. All questions on the exam are based upon prior coursework. A study guide and sample questions are available from the department. Students can earn a pass with distinction, pass, low pass or failure. Students normally take the comprehensive exam at the beginning of the spring semester in their senior year.