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.

UD’s rigorous Chemistry curriculum equips students to be professional practitioners of science with problem solving skills to understand the natural world and prepares them for success in diverse careers in research, industry, education, and beyond. The BS degree requires students to participate in the practice of science with undergraduate research experiences that connect them with the mission of professional science: “to understand the world and to extend the precision and scope with which it has been ordered” (Thomas Kuhn, The Structure of Scientific Revolutions)

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.