Bachelor of Science (BS) in Chemistry Degree
What Is a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry?
Chemical sciences have shaped modern society. Scientific advancements in this field influence many aspects of everyday life, and behind these advancements is a team of chemists and chemical engineers. If you’re interested in changing the world around you and improving the lives of people in your community, consider applying to the Bachelor of Science in Chemistry degree program at Grand Canyon University.
Offered by the College of Science, Engineering and Technology, the bachelor’s in chemistry degree program provides students with a firm foundation for understanding scientific processes and inquiry. Learn to design scientifically sound experiments to test hypotheses, understand the properties of matter and explore the behavior of matter during chemical reactions. Learn to present your research and original ideas through various modes of communication.
As a private Christian university, GCU emphasizes the role of ethical decision-making within the scientific field. Bachelor’s in chemistry students analyze the roles and responsibilities of their future profession in light of ethical considerations and matters of morality.
American Chemical Society Standards
The curriculum for this bachelor’s degree in chemistry aligns with the guidelines established by the American Chemical Society (ACS). The ACS is a nonprofit organization that empowers scientists and educators for the betterment of chemistry innovation, research and education across the globe.
What You’ll Learn With a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry
Careers in science and technology present exciting possibilities for today’s students. During your undergraduate scientific studies at GCU, you will acquire the professional skills and foundational scientific knowledge necessary to pursue your future ambitions. Develop a values-based knowledge in chemical science and focus on your studies through the lens of the Christian perspective. Consider the principles of environmental and ecological responsibility, humanitarianism and social issues as you study the chemical sciences.
In courses such as Principles of Biochemistry, Critical Analyses in Science and Organic Chemistry, bachelor’s in chemistry degree students will acquire the following core competencies:
- The systematic use of data to make critical decisions, and the application of inquiry, reasoning and logic as they pertain to science
- The essentials of chemical bonding, chemical structure, acid-base principles and chemical reactions, including radical reactions
- The composition, structure and function of proteins, nucleic acids, lipids and carbohydrates, and key biochemical principles such as kinetics, equilibrium, thermodynamics and metabolic energy pathways
- A calculus-based study of the fundamental concepts in physics, including motion, forces, energy, heat, the properties of matter and thermodynamics
Additionally, senior students are required to complete the Capstone Project in the Sciences. This is a culmination of their learning experiences, during which they will prepare an extensive scientific report or proposal on a topic in the chemical sciences.
Careers With a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry
There is a broad range of possibilities for graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry degree. Some chemistry degree graduates may pursue work in hospital research laboratories, universities or government agencies. Others may choose to work in fields such as biotechnology or healthcare, or to pursue biomedical, pharmaceutical, chemical or environmental research specializations. Some specific jobs that may be related to this degree include the following:
- Chemists
- Chemical technicians
- Forensic science technicians
- Food science technicians
- Natural sciences managers
- Chemistry teachers
There are many entry-level opportunities for graduates with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. Graduates may pursue work as a technician or assayer. Advanced opportunities may require a graduate-level chemistry degree. Some career paths, such as jobs in the healthcare field, may require additional academic qualifications, licensure and certification.
Chemistry Degree FAQs
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, chemists and materials scientists have a median annual wage of $80,680 as of May 2020.1
The difference between a Bachelor of Science (BS) and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Chemistry comes down to what is studied in the classroom and the greater application of the two. A Bachelor of Science in Chemistry will have a more rigorous component that focuses on math and hands-on science. This degree is better if you have an interest in stepping into the biochemistry or organic chemistry fields.
A BA in Chemistry will study the same chemistry concepts but is designed with a liberal arts component. Depending on the program, there may be more English or psychology courses with emphases on research and writing. If you have an interest in becoming a chemistry teacher, you may want to consider earning a BA in Chemistry.
Generally speaking, mathematics is required for a chemistry degree. How math-intensive a chemistry degree is depends on the program; however, you should expect to encounter calculus, algebra and probability and statistics. There are mathematics components built into every chemistry and science-based course, so you should have an understanding of basic calculus before starting.
To attend the chemistry program at GCU, there are specific GPA and math requirements for admission. Visit our Undergraduate Admissions Requirements page for more details.
If you have a passion for chemistry and understanding the chemical makeup of everything around you, earning a bachelor’s in chemistry is worth it. With a chemistry degree, students can contribute to a range of work, from developing antibiotics to working on criminal investigations. Majoring in chemistry can lead to careers in medicine, research, the chemical industry, government and more.
1 The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (“BLS”), Chemists and Materials Scientists as of May 2020. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 may be atypical compared to prior years. The pandemic may also impact the predicted future workforce outcomes indicated by the BLS. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers from across the country with varying levels of education and experience and does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as Chemists and Materials Scientists. It does not reflect earnings of workers in one city or region of the country. It also does not reflect a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. You may also wish to compare median salaries if you are considering more than one career path.
General Education Requirements
General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.
Requirements
Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.
Course Options
- UNV-112, Success in Science, Engineering and Technology & Lab: 4
- UNV-103, University Success: 4
- UNV-303, University Success: 4
- UNV-108, University Success in the College of Education: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to construct rhetorically effective communications appropriate to diverse audiences, purposes, and occasions (English composition, communication, critical reading, foreign language, sign language, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of English grammar or composition.
Course Options
- UNV-104, 21st Century Skills: Communication and Information Literacy: 4
- ENG-105, English Composition I: 4
- ENG-106, English Composition II: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to express aspects of Christian heritage and worldview. Students are required to take CWV-101/CWV-301.
Course Options
- CWV-101, Christian Worldview: 4
- CWV-301, Christian Worldview: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.
Course Options
- MAT-154, Applications of College Algebra: 4
- MAT-144, College Mathematics: 4
- PHI-105, 21st Century Skills: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: 4
- BIO-220, Environmental Science: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.
Course Options
- HIS-144, U.S. History Themes: 4
- PSY-102, General Psychology: 4
- SOC-100, Everyday Sociology: 4
Required General Education Courses
Course Description
This course presents the fundamentals of algebra and trigonometry with some applications; it provides the background and introduction for the study of calculus. Topics include review of linear equations and inequalities in one and multiple variables; functions and their graphs; polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions; systems of equations and matrices; and sequences and series. Slope and rate of change are introduced to set up the concepts of limits and derivatives. There is an emphasis on both an understanding of the mathematical concepts involved as well as their applications to the principles and real-world problems encountered in science and engineering. Technology is utilized to facilitate problem analysis and graphing. Prerequisite: MAT-134 or MAT-154.
Core Courses
Course Description
This is the first course of a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. The course assumes no prior knowledge of chemistry and begins with basic concepts. Topics include an introduction to the scientific method, dimensional analysis, atomic structure, nomenclature, stoichiometry and chemical reactions, the gas laws, thermodynamics, chemical bonding, and properties of solutions. Co-Requisite: CHM-113L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of CHM-113 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Experiments include determination of density, classification of chemical reactions, the gas laws, determination of enthalpy change using calorimetry, and determination of empirical formula. Co-Requisite: CHM-113.
Course Description
This is the second course of a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. Upon successful completion of this course, students demonstrate knowledge and/or skill in solving problems involving the principles of chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, and thermodynamics; understanding chemical reactions using kinetics, equilibrium, and thermodynamics; comparing and contrasting the principal theories of acids and bases; solving equilibrium involving acids, bases, and buffers; describing solubility equilibrium; describing terms associated with electrochemistry and solving problems associated with electrochemistry; and describing fundamentals and applications of nuclear chemistry and organic chemistry. Prerequisites: CHM-113 and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of CHM-115 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Experiments include determination of rate law, examples of Le Châtelier’s principle, the use of pH indicators, buffer preparation, experimental determination of thermodynamic quantities, the use of electrochemical cells, and qualitative and quantitative analysis. Prerequisites: CHM-113L and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115.
Course Description
This course provides an introduction to the analysis skills required for scientific problems. Students will study approaches on inquiry, reasoning, and logic as applied to science, the systematic use of data to make critical decisions, and the expectations of science careers in healthcare or research.
Course Description
This course is the first of two organic chemistry courses. The first half of this course develops the vocabulary and concepts of chemical bonding, chemical structure, acid-base principles, and nomenclature needed to understand properties and reactions of organic compounds. The second half of this course discusses chemical reactions, including radical reactions, substitution and elimination reactions, and synthesis and reactions of alkenes. Students learn how to predict reaction products and draw reaction mechanisms. Organic synthesis and structural determination are also covered. Instruction includes lecture and in-class problem solving. Prerequisites: CHM-115 and CHM-115L. Co-requisite: CHM-231L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of CHM-231 reinforces principles learned in the lecture course through various techniques that organic chemists use to synthesize compounds. Students use these techniques throughout the semester. These techniques include determination of melting point, determination of solubility, thin layer chromatography, recrystallization, and distillation. Structural determination using theories discussed in CHM-231 is applied to unknown compounds. Prerequisites: CHM-115 and CHM-115L. Co-requisite: CHM-231.
Course Description
This course provides a rigorous treatment of the concepts and methods of elementary calculus and its application to real-world problems. Topics include differentiation, optimization, and integration. Software is utilized to facilitate problem analysis and graphing. Prerequisite: MAT-261 or ESG-162/162L.
Course Description
This course provides an introduction to the study of basic probability, descriptive and inferential statistics, and decision making. Emphasis is placed on measures of central tendency and dispersion, correlation, regression, discrete and continuous probability distributions, quality control population parameter estimation, and hypothesis testing. Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in MAT-134, MAT-144 or MAT-154.
Course Description
This course is the second of two organic chemistry courses. The course is organized by common organic functional groups, including alkynes, alcohols, ether, aromatic compounds, ketones and aldehydes, amines, carboxylic acid, and carboxylic acid derivatives. The reactions and properties of each functional group are discussed. Students learn how to predict reaction products, draw reaction mechanisms, and predict physical properties. Instruction includes lecture and in-class problem solving. Prerequisites: CHM-231 and CHM-231L. Co-Requisite: CHM-232L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of CHM-232 supports and extends principles learned in the lecture course. Students carry out various organic syntheses using techniques taught in CHM-231. The experiments include preparation of an alkene from an alcohol, a Grignard reaction, preparation of cinnamaldehyde, nitration of methyl benzoate, synthesis of N-Methyl Prozac, an Aldol reaction, Benzimidazole synthesis, and a Diazonium coupling reaction. Prerequisites: CHM-231 and CHM-231L. Co-requisite: CHM-232.
Course Description
This course provides a rigorous treatment of the concepts and methods of integral, multivariable, and vector calculus and its application to real-world problems. Prerequisite: MAT-262.
Course Description
This course introduces advanced principles and theory of quantitative analysis, including stoichiometry, equilibria, photometric methods, electrochemistry, separation processes, statistical data analysis, and applications to advanced topics in analytical chemistry. Sampling strategies and sample preparation for analysis will also be discussed. Prerequisite: CHM-235, CHM-235L or CHM-231, CHM-231L. Co-Requisite: CHM-315L.
Course Description
This course will discuss the fundamental principles of analytical chemistry. Topics will include sampling strategies, sample preparations and analysis, instrument operation, data collection and statistical analysis, and presentation of results. Prerequisites: CHM-235 and CHM-235L or CHM-231 and CHM-231L. Co-Requisite: CHM-315.
Course Description
This writing intensive course focuses on the fundamental chemical principles involved in environmental phenomena and how they are influenced by human actions. Prerequisite: CHM-115.
Course Description
This course is a study of biological concepts emphasizing the interplay of structure and function, particularly at the molecular and cellular levels of organization. Cell components and their duties are investigated, as well as the locations of cellular functions within the cell. The importance of the membrane is studied, particularly its roles in controlling movement of ions and molecules and in energy production. The effect of genetic information on the cell is followed through the pathway from DNA to RNA to protein. Co-requisite: BIO-181L.
Course Description
This lab course is designed to reinforce principles learned in BIO-181 through experiments and activities which complement and enhance understanding of macromolecules, cell membrane properties, cellular components, and their contribution to cell structure and function. Assignments are designed to relate cellular processes such as metabolism, cell division, and the flow of genetic information to cell structure. Co-requisite: BIO-181.
Course Description
This course is a calculus-based study of basic concepts of physics, including motion; forces; energy; the properties of solids, liquids, and gases; and heat and thermodynamics. The mathematics used includes algebra, trigonometry, and vector analysis. A primary course goal is to build a functional knowledge that allows students to more fully understand the physical world and to apply that understanding to other areas of the natural and mathematical sciences. Conceptual, visual, graphical, and mathematical models of physical phenomena are stressed. Students build critical thinking skills by engaging in individual and group problem-solving sessions. Prerequisite: MAT-262. Co-Requisite: PHY-121L.
Course Description
This calculus-based course utilizes lab experimentation to practice concepts of physical principles introduced in the PHY-121 lecture course. Students are able to perform the proper analysis and calculations to arrive at the correct quantifiable result when confronted with equations involving gravity, sound, energy, and motion. Prerequisite: MAT-262. Co-Requisite: PHY-121.
Course Description
This course surveys accepted safety principles in classroom laboratories and their impact on the learning environment. Students design a capstone lab learning unit in a science discipline that incorporates proper lab safety protocols. Prerequisites: CHM-115 and CHM-115L.
Course Description
This course discusses the theory and application of spectroscopic methods/techniques useful for the determination of the molecular structures of organic molecules. Topics covered include chemical tests for functional group identification and modern instrumental techniques used for structure determination: ultraviolet/visible, infrared, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. The major emphasis of this course is on structure determination by way of interpreting the data (generally in the form of a spectrum or spectra) that each method provides. Prerequisite: CHM-232 & CHM-232L.
Course Description
The course objective is to survey basic biochemical principles, including the composition, structure, and function of proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and carbohydrates. Important biochemical principles include structure-function correlation, chemical reactivity, kinetics and equilibrium, thermodynamics, membrane structure and function, and metabolic energy pathways. The application of biochemical concepts in the medical field is emphasized. Prerequisite: BIO-181, BIO-181L, CHM-231, CHM-231L. Co-Requisite: CHM-360L.
Course Description
This laboratory course covers modern biochemical laboratory techniques and their theoretical foundations. Topics include methods for protein, nucleic acid, and lipid isolation and characterization; enzyme assays; chromatography; electrophoresis; and representing and manipulating proteins and nucleic acids. Experiments are designed for hands-on experimentation and students acquire practical techniques currently used in biochemistry laboratories. Prerequisite: BIO-181, BIO-181L, CHM-231, CHM-231L. Co-Requisite: CHM-360.
Course Description
A study of the physical and chemical behavior of substances at the macroscopic and molecular levels. Topics include behavior of single substances and mixtures, thermodynamics, chemical reactions, and equilibria. Prerequisites: CHM-115, CHM-115L, and MAT-262. Co-Requisite: CHM-441L.
Course Description
A laboratory course designed to complement and support the principles being learned in CHM-441 lecture. Prerequisites: CHM-115, CHM-115L, and MAT-262. Co-Requisite: CHM-441.
Course Description
This calculus-based course is the second in a 1-year introductory physics sequence. In this course, the basics of three areas in physics are covered, including electricity and magnetism, optics, and modern physics. The sequence of topics includes an introduction to electric and magnetic fields. This is followed by the nature of light as an electromagnetic wave and topics associated with geometric optics. The final topic discussed in the course is quantum mechanics. Prerequisites: MAT-264, PHY-121, and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122L.
Course Description
This course utilizes lab experimentation to practice concepts of physical principles introduced in the PHY-122 lecture course. Some of the topics students understand and analyze involve the relationship between electric charges and insulators/conductors, magnetism in physics, energy transformations in electric circuits, the relationship between magnetism and electricity, and how they relate to the medical industry. Prerequisites: MAT-264, PHY-121, and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122.
Course Description
This course is a study of the physical and chemical behavior of substances at the molecular level. Topics include quantum chemistry, molecular structure and spectra, molecular reaction dynamics, and statistical mechanics. Prerequisites: CHM-441, PHY-121 and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: CHM-444L.
Course Description
This is a laboratory course designed to complement and support the principles being learned in CHM-444. Prerequisites: CHM-441, PHY-121 and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: CHM-444.
Course Description
This course introduces students to the quantitative, qualitative, and instrumental analysis of various sample types. Methods for selecting proper techniques to answer various questions are discussed. Analytical methods for the qualitative and quantitative analyses of sample by gas chromatography, mass spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, capillary and gel electrophoresis, and ultraviolet and visible spectroscopy are also covered. Other techniques, such as high-pressure liquid chromatography and thin layer chromatography, are discussed as well. Prerequisites: 1) CHM-231 and CHM-231L, or 2) CHM-235 and CHM-235L. Co-Requisite: CHM-365L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of CHM-365 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. This course allows students to apply quantitative, qualitative, and instrumental analysis of various sample types. Focus is on the validity of results. Analytical methods for the qualitative and quantitative analyses of sample by gas chromatography, mass spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, capillary and gel are also covered. Prerequisites: 1) CHM-231 and CHM-231L, or 2) CHM-235 and CHM-235L. Co-Requisite: CHM-365.
Course Description
The objective of this course is to provide basic principles and applications of inorganic chemistry. Students will learn about modern atomic structure, structure and bonding in molecules and simple solids, transition metals and coordination chemistry, molecular symmetry, descriptive chemistry of select elements, chemistry of materials, and catalysis. Prerequisites: CHM-444 and CHM-444L. Co-Requisite: CHM-448L.
Course Description
The objective of this course is to learn about a variety of methods and techniques in the synthesis, isolation, characterization, and handling of inorganic and organometallic compounds. Students will also learn about proper interpretation of experimental data, and dissemination of experimental results through presentation and writing technical reports. Prerequisites: CHM-444 and CHM-444L. Co-Requisite: CHM-448.
Course Description
The capstone project is a culmination of the learning experiences while a student in the science programs at Grand Canyon University. Students discuss and write on current topics in their field and prepare an extensive written scientific report or proposal on select topics on the sciences, relevant to their program of study. The capstone project needs to reflect synthesis and integration of course content and good scientific practice. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisite: Senior status.
Join Grand Canyon University’s vibrant and growing campus community, with daytime classes designed for traditional students. Immerse yourself in a full undergraduate experience, complete with curriculum designed within the context of our Christian worldview.
* Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
* Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change.