American Chemical Society Certified B.S. in Chemistry
Program Overview
Often called the central science, chemistry plays a vital role in nearly every aspect of our lives. From developing life-saving drugs and next-generation batteries to ensuring clean water and protecting the environment, chemists make a lasting impact. If you enjoy working in the lab, conducting experiments, or envision pursuing graduate studies in a scientific field, a bachelor's degree in Chemistry (ACS certified) could be the right path for you. NMU's Chemistry program is designed for students aiming for professional careers in chemistry, biochemistry, and related scientific fields. Graduates are well-prepared not only for traditional chemistry roles but also for careers in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, teaching, engineering, environmental science, material science, and more.
Our program is accredited by the American Chemical Society (ACS). This prestigious certification reflects the academic strength of our curriculum and the department's commitment to preparing students for the demands of an evolving scientific landscape.
Skills and Competencies
As in most other fields, strong interpersonal communication and organizational skills are a must. You will also develop other valuable skills and competencies specific to chemistry-oriented professions, such as analytical and data-processing skills, theory development, experimental design, lab skills, and the ability to remain objective when analyzing data. Students in our programs gain hands-on experience using state-of-the-art equipment and instrumentation and are well-prepared for the workforce or postgraduate education.
Learning Objectives
Requirements
Required Courses in Major 49 Credits
- CH 111 - General Chemistry I [SCII] [LAB] 5 Credits
- CH 112 - General Chemistry II 5 Credits
- CH 215 - Chemistry of the Elements 4 Credits
- CH 241 - Chemical Equilibrium 3 Credits
- CH 242 - Quantitative Analysis 2 Credits
- CH 315 - Organic Chemistry I 3 Credits
- CH 317 - Organic Chemistry Laboratory I 1 Credits
- CH 325 - Organic Chemistry II 3 Credits
- CH 327 - Organic Chemistry Laboratory II 1 Credits
- CH 341 - Physical Chemistry I 4 Credits
- CH 342 - Physical Chemistry II 4 Credits
- CH 415 - Inorganic Chemistry 4 Credits
- CH 435 - Gas and Liquid Chromatography 2 Credits
- CH 436 - Modern Spectroscopy 3 Credits
- CH 437 - Atomic Spectrometry 1 Credits
- CH 450 - Biochemistry I 4 Credits
Other Required Courses 18 Credits
- MA 161 - Calculus I [QUAR] [MATH] 4 Credits
- MA 163 - Calculus II [MATH] 4 Credits
- PH 220 - Introductory Physics I [SCII] [LAB] 5 Credits
- or
- PH 201 - College Physics I [SCII] [LAB] 5 Credits
- PH 221 - Introductory Physics II [SCII] [LAB] 5 Credits
- or
- PH 202 - College Physics II [SCII] [LAB] 5 Credits
What you can do with an ACS Chemistry degree?
The job market for Chemists is expected to grow by 5% from 2024 to 2034. The starting salary in most fields will average around $60,000. The median salary for experienced chemists is $120,000, and is even higher with an advanced degree.
Potential Careers
NMU's Chemistry Program prepares students for employment in the following careers:
- Agricultural Scientist
- Biochemist
- Crime Lab Analyst
- Environmental Science
- Food Chemist
- Forensic Scientist
- Laboratory Analyst
- Occupational Safety Specialist
- Patent Expert
- Petroleum Scientist
- Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
- Pharmacist
- Physician/Dentist
- Polymer/Plastic Scientist
- Professor/Teacher (with certification)
- Toxicologist
- Wastewater treatment
- Writer/Editor