Programs of Study

There are several degree options in Chemistry at Valparaiso University, leading to the following majors:

BA in Chemistry
BS in Chemistry
BS in Biochemistry

BA, Chemistry - 27 Credits

The Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry requires 27 credits in chemistry along with a minor or second major in another area. There is no restriction on the area of the minor or second major.

This Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry requires 27 credits in chemistry along with a second science major. The second science major may be in Biology, Computer Science, Geology, Mathematics, Meteorolgy, Physics, or Psychology.

BS, Chemistry - 32 Credits

This Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry requires 32 credits in chemistry along with a science minor, an Engineering Minor, a Liberal Arts Business Minor, an Applied Statistics Minor, or a non-science major.

BS, Chemistry - 40 Credits

This Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry requires 40 credits in chemistry, and does not require any minor or second major. This degree is approved by the American Chemical Society for the training of professional chemists.

BS, Biochemistry - 56 Credits

This Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry requires 44 credits in chemistry and 12 credits in biology, and does not require any minor or second major. This degree is also approved by the American Chemical Society for the training of professional chemists.

As part of these majors, students may also be interested in the following options:

Biochemistry Concentration

Within the 32 credit BS degree in Chemistry option listed above, a student may choose to have a concentration in biochemistry. This concentration requires 12 credits in biology in addition to the 32 credits in chemistry.

Pre-Medical Arts Programs

A major in chemistry is an appropriate preparation for admission into professional schools and programs such as medicine, dentistry, hospital administration, medical technology, optometry, osteopathy, physical therapy, podiatry, public health, veterinary medicine, and other allied health fields. Further information may be obtained from the Chair of the Department or members of the Committee on Pre-Medical Arts.

Chemical Engineering

The College of Engineering offers a minor in engineering. Combining an engineering minor with a major in chemistry will prepare students who wish to pursue further studies in chemical engineering. Further information may be obtained from the Chair of the Chemistry Department or the Freshman Engineering Coordinator in the College of Engineering.

Cooperative Education

Qualified students may combine semesters in chemical research at a professional work site with other semesters of traditional academic studies on campus. Although this program will probably extend the participating student's college education beyond the normal four years, the students will be financially reimbursed by the cooperating employer and also receive credit toward the chemistry major. No more than six credits earned in Cooperative Education may be applied toward minimum requirements of the major in Chemistry. Enrollment in this program is limited by the availability of positions offered by suitable cooperating companies. Eligible students are junior or senior chemistry majors who have completed CHEM 222 with a cumulative grade point average of 2.50 in their mathematics and science courses.