Chemistry is a diverse discipline that encompasses living processes, inorganic interactions, and analytical methods. Students trained in chemistry enter careers such as academia, research, pharmacy, forensics, medicine, the environment, space exploration, and international defense. This degree produces graduates who are well versed in chemistry and also allows for different chemistry emphases.
If you're excited by the possibilities in test tubes and eager to find adventure in the laboratory, then discover chemistry. Chemistry deals with the basic laws of the physical world and the composition and properties of matter. Advances in computer technology, pharmaceuticals, space exploration, and medicine all have their roots in the chemical sciences. Demand for well-trained technicians and researchers is rising. Our programs prepare you for careers in industry (about 75% of chemists are employed privately), pure science, or the health care professions. Many students prepare for medical, dental, or veterinary school with a chemistry major. Depending on your career path, you can choose one of several emphases. The Chemistry program also offers opportunities to participate in faculty-led undergraduate research or independent study projects.
To receive a bachelor's degree at Northern Arizona University, you must complete at least 120 units of credit that minimally includes a major, the liberal studies requirements, and university requirements as listed below.
The full policy can be viewed here.
In addition to University Requirements:
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
| Minimum Units for Completion | 120 |
| Highest Mathematics Required | MAT 137 |
| Additional Admission Requirements | Required |
| Emphasis, Minor, or Certificate Required | Required |
| Fieldwork Experience/Internship | Optional |
| Research | Optional |
| University Honors Program | Optional |
| Progression Plan Link | View Progression Plan |
All Chemistry Degrees
Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required.
ACS plans are certified by the American Chemical Society. Students must meet the following requirements to be admitted into an ACS plan:
Students must complete all Chemistry coursework with no more than two grades of D (excluding prerequisite courses that require a C or better).
Take the following 39 units:
Select additional units from additional courses in Chemistry and/or Biology (6 units)
If electing to complete the B.S. Chemistry with a non-Chemistry minor, take the following 9 units plus at least 18 units of minor requirements.
For those electing to complete a minor, select at least 18 units from those described in this catalog. In consultation with your advisor, you should select a minor that's appropriate for your career aspirations and educational needs. Your minor advisor will advise you about this part of your academic plan.
Additional coursework is required if, after you have met the previously described requirements, you have not yet completed a total of 120 units of credit.
You may take these remaining courses from any of the academic areas, using these courses to pursue your specific interests and goals. You may also use prerequisites or transfer credits as electives if they weren't used to meet major, minor, or liberal studies requirements.
We encourage you to consult with your advisor to select the courses that will be most advantageous to you.
Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.