MAJOR: CHEMISTRY
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Chemistry is the science that deals with and investigates the composition, properties, and transformation of substances and various elementary forms of matter. A degree in chemistry is designed to prepare students for professional careers as chemists, either upon graduation or after graduate study in chemistry or related fields.

In addition, it may serve as a basis for a wide range of career choices outside chemistry, including but not limited to: materials science, medicine and other healthcare related occupations, pharmacology, secondary school teaching, environmental science, and patent law.

Declare This Major

The entry-level requirements for the Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS) Chemistry degrees are completion of two semesters of calculus with grades of C- or higher and completion of the first two semesters of Chemistry (CH 301 and CH 302). Learn the difference between the BA vs BS degree. Students who have met these requirements may schedule an appointment with an academic advisor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry Advising Office.

Current UT students who have not yet completed the entry-level requirements should schedule an appointment with an academic advisor in WCH 1.106. Contact the appropriate College of Natural Sciences Advising Center to schedule an appointment and change majors to Chemistry.

Prospective University of Texas at Austin students should visit to learn about the application process and how to declare a major.

Required Courses

For information on required courses, students can view Chemistry degree plans by specific major. For additional information, view Chemistry course websites and chemistry course descriptions.

Specializations

The chemistry curriculum provides broad and comprehensive training in all areas of modern chemistry, including course work in the major sub-disciplines of chemistry - organic, inorganic, physical, biological, and analytical.

Degree Options:

  • Bachelor of Arts
  • Bachelor of Science
    • Option I: Chemistry
    • Option II: Computation
    • Option III: Teaching: Composite or Physical Science
    • Option IV: Chemistry Honors (must first be admitted to Dean's Scholars)

Personality

Students generally have a strong mathematical background and enjoy studying chemistry. Chemistry majors tend to be observant and curious about the world around them, especially within the realm of science.

Learn about chemistry-related student organizations on campus.

Skills

  • Aptitude for accurate details
  • Ability to organize and interpret data
  • Enjoy problem-solving and decision-making
  • Ability to derive information from computers
  • Sensitive to the health and safety of others
  • Desire for life-long learning