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Foundation in Chemistry

DSU instills a profound understanding of principles in chemistry to succeed in an undergraduate program, graduate program and career post-college.

BACHELOR’S DEGREES

Chemistry, BS

Biochemistry (Health Professions), BS

Chemistry Pre-Pharmacy, BS

MASTER’S DEGREE

Applied Chemistry, MS

DOCTORAL DEGREE

Applied Chemistry, PhD

Department of Chemistry

The Department of Chemistry is dedicated to providing a rigorous and supportive academic environment for students pursuing careers in chemistry, education, healthcare, and research. Our programs are designed to:

  • Build a strong foundation in chemical principles for students majoring in chemistry.
  • Prepare students for graduate studies and professional careers in chemistry, pharmacy, medicine, dentistry, and other health-related fields.
  • Offer a structured curriculum for future educators planning to teach chemistry at the secondary level.
  • Support students in pre-professional tracks, including Pre-Pharmacy, with coursework tailored to meet admission requirements for pharmacy schools.
  • Provide all students—regardless of major—with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of chemistry.

Chemistry majors are encouraged to join the American Chemical Society (ACS) Student Affiliates Chapter at DSU during their freshman year and remain active throughout their academic journey. This affiliation offers valuable opportunities for networking, leadership, and professional development.

Students selecting a major within the Department of Chemistry must complete the university’s general education requirements. Specific courses and curriculum options for each concentration—including Pre-Pharmacy—are outlined below.

Curriculum Options

Undergraduate Programs

Chemistry, B.S.
Designed for students pursuing professional careers in chemistry or graduate study, this program meets the standards set by the American Chemical Society (ACS) for undergraduate professional education.

Major Requirements (53 credit hours):

  • Core Courses: CHEM 101–102, 210–211, 303–304, 305, 306, 308, 403, 405, 407
  • Electives (9 credit hours):
    • Option 1: 6 hours in advanced chemistry + 3 hours in advanced mathematics or physics
    • Option 2: 9 hours in advanced chemistry
  • Supporting Courses: PSYC 201; MATH 251–252; PHYS 211–212
  • Biochemical Interest Track: Add BIOL 101–102

Biochemistry (Health Professions), B.S.
Ideal for students preparing for medical, dental, or other health professional schools, this pre-professional chemistry curriculum integrates biology and chemistry.

Major Requirements (40 credit hours):

  • Core Courses: CHEM 101–102, 210–211, 303, 305, 403, 405, 407
  • Advanced Chemistry Elective: 4 credit hours
  • Biology Courses: BIOL 101–102, 210, 215 + 3 hours of advanced biology elective
  • Supporting Courses: MATH 241, 251–252; PHYS 201–202 or 211–212; PSYC 201; SCCJ 101

Chemistry Pre-Pharmacy, B.S.
This track supports students pursuing careers in pharmacy through a 3+3 Dual Degree Program with the University of Maryland Eastern Shore School of Pharmacy.

DSU Requirements (27 credit hours):

  • Core Courses: CHEM 101–102, 210–211, 305, 403, 405
  • Biology Courses: BIOL 101–102, 210, 215 + 3 hours of advanced biology elective
  • Supporting Courses: MATH 251–252; PHYS 201–202 or 211–212; SCCJ 101; PSYC 201

UMES Pharmacy School Requirements (28 credit hours):
Courses include: PHARM 510, 511, 512, 524, 525, 530, 531, 550, 571, 572

DSU - UD MSE BS/MS 3+2 Program
This 3+2 dual-degree program allows students to earn a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from DSU and a Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) from the University of Delaware in five years.

  • Years 1–3: Complete core chemistry and general education requirements at DSU
  • Years 4–5: Transition to UD for graduate-level coursework in MSE
  • Ideal for students interested in advanced materials, nanotechnology, and interdisciplinary research

DSU UD BS/BS Dual Degree Program
This program enables students to earn two Bachelor of Science degrees—one from DSU and one from a partnering institution—through a coordinated curriculum.

  • Students complete foundational coursework at DSU
  • Additional requirements are fulfilled at the partner institution
  • Designed for students seeking interdisciplinary training and expanded career pathways

Chemistry Minor
Students pursuing a minor in chemistry must complete 18 credit hours, including:

  • CHEM 101–102, 210–211
  • One elective at the 300 level or higher

Foreign Language Requirement:
Chemistry majors who score 560 or higher on the College Board Achievement Test in a prescribed foreign language—either before entering DSU or during their freshman/sophomore year—will be considered to have satisfied the foreign language requirement for the baccalaureate degree.

Graduate Programs

Applied Chemistry, M.S.
The Master of Science in Applied Chemistry program prepares students for careers in industry, government, and research, with advanced training in analytical, environmental, and materials chemistry.

Applied Chemistry, Ph.D.
The Ph.D. in Applied Chemistry is designed for students seeking leadership roles in research and academia. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to solving real-world chemical challenges, including water quality, bioengineering, and sustainable materials.