How long does it take to get a BS in Chemistry?

The on-campus Bachelor of Science in Chemistry degree requires 120 total credits for completion. The majority of the courses you will take are 15 weeks each in length. To learn more about the timeframe of completion, fill out the form on this page to get in contact with a university counselor.

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry

Start your GCU journey today.

Step 1: Educational Interests

This helps us connect you with the right enrollment counselor to help you through the process.

Degree Level

Bachelor's

Class Setting

Campus

Area of Study

Science

Program

BS in Chemistry

Current Education Level

Make a selection

High School Graduation Year

Make a selection

High School Name

Country

United States

Find Your Purpose

Start your GCU journey today.

Request Info

Overview

Practice Fundamental Chemistry Skills With a Bachelor’s Degree 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 having the opportunity to change the world around you and improving the lives of people in your community, consider applying to the Bachelor of Science (BS) in Chemistry degree program at Grand Canyon University.

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry

Offered By

College of Natural Sciences

Class Settings

Campus

Tuition Rate

Campus: $8,250 per semester [More Info]

Cost of Attendance

Course Information

Credits: 120

Campus: 15 weeks

[]

Transfer Credits

Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division

Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)

16+ years old
High School Graduate
3.0+ Unweighted GPA

OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and

ACT: 19
SAT: 1000*

Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).

Why GCU

Earn Your BS in Chemistry at GCU

Offered by the College of Natural Sciences, the bachelor’s in chemistry degree provides you with a foundation for understanding scientific processes. In this program, you’ll be taught 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 ideas through various modes of communication.

Morality and Ethics in Chemistry

As a private Christian university, GCU emphasizes the role of ethical decision-making within the scientific field. The BS in Chemistry degree analyzes the roles and responsibilities of future professions in light of ethical considerations and matters of morality.

Chemistry Curriculum Standards

The curriculum for this degree 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.

Coursework

BS in Chemistry Course Topics

Careers in science and technology present many possibilities for graduates who have earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. During your undergraduate scientific studies at GCU, you will be taught professional skills and foundational scientific knowledge that may be necessary to pursue your future ambitions. Develop knowledge in chemical science and through faith-integrated courses and focus on your studies through the lens of the Christian perspective. You will be taught to consider the principles of environmental and ecological responsibility, humanitarianism and social issues as you study the chemical sciences.

Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry Core Competencies

In courses such as Principles of Biochemistry, Critical Analyses in Science and Organic Chemistry, bachelor’s in chemistry degree students work to 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

In the last part of the program, you are required to complete the Capstone Project in the Sciences. This is a culmination of your learning experiences, during which you will prepare an extensive scientific report or proposal on a topic in the chemical sciences.

Careers

Career Opportunities With a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry

Some graduates may pursue work in hospital research laboratories, universities or government agencies. Others may choose to work in fields such as biotechnology, or to pursue biomedical, pharmaceutical, chemical or environmental research specializations. Advanced opportunities may require a graduate degree. Some career paths, such as jobs in the healthcare field, may require additional academic qualifications, licensure and certifications as well.

Some specific jobs that may be related to a BS in Chemistry include the following:

Chemists

Chemical technicians

Forensic science technicians

Food science technicians

Natural sciences managers

Chemistry teachers

$79,760

Median annual wage for chemists and materials scientists as of May 2021^{(See disclaimer 1)}

FAQ

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry Degree FAQs

If you’re passionate about chemistry and are looking to earn your bachelor’s degree, read through our frequently asked questions to learn more.

What’s the differences between a BA and a BS in Chemistry?

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 BS in Chemistry degree will have a more rigorous component that focuses on math and hands-on science. This degree may be a better option if you have an interest in stepping into the biochemistry or organic chemistry fields.

A BA degree 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.

Are mathematics required for a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry?

Generally speaking, mathematics is required for a chemistry degree. How math-intensive the 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 degree program at GCU, there are specific GPA and math requirements for admission. Visit our Undergraduate Admissions Requirements page for more details.

Is a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry degree worth it?

How difficult is a bachelor’s degree in chemistry?

A chemistry major may be more challenging for some rather than others depending on where their strengths lie. Collegiate-level chemistry courses may be more advanced than what one is used to in their prior education, which may take some adjustment. There is a lot of reading, mathematic processes and formulations and abstract concepts in the chemistry field. If you’re passionate about chemistry, prepare to spend time reading and studying, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Those are all components to help prepare yourself to be successful in a chemistry program.

Courses

Program Curriculum

Credit Summary

General Education Requirements34-40 credits

Major80 credits

Open Elective Credits0-6 credits

Degree Requirements120 credits

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.

Competency

4 Total Credits

Course Description

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.

Competency

9-12 Total Credits

Competency

4 Total Credits

Competency

11-12 Total Credits

Course Description

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.

Competency

6-8 Total Credits

Course Description

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.

Required General Education Courses

MAT-261

4 Total Credits

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

CHM-113

3 Total Credits

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.

CHM-113L

1 Total Credits

CHM-115

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This is the second course in 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 are able to 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 the fundamentals of nuclear chemistry. Prerequisites: CHM-113 and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115L.

CHM-115L

1 Total Credits

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.

SCI-150

4 Total Credits

CHM-231

3 Total Credits

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.

CHM-231L

1 Total Credits

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.

MAT-262

4 Total Credits

MAT-274

4 Total Credits

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.

CHM-232

3 Total Credits

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.

CHM-232L

1 Total Credits

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.

MAT-264

4 Total Credits

CHM-315

3 Total Credits

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.

CHM-315L

1 Total Credits

CHM-420

3 Total Credits

BIO-181

3 Total Credits

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.

BIO-181L

1 Total Credits

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.

PHY-121

3 Total Credits

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 or higher. Co-Requisite: PHY-121L.

PHY-121L

1 Total Credits

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 or higher. Co-Requisite: PHY-121.

SCI-300L

1 Total Credits

CHM-333

4 Total Credits

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.

CHM-360

3 Total Credits

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.

CHM-360L

1 Total Credits

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.

CHM-441

3 Total Credits

CHM-441L

1 Total Credits

PHY-122

3 Total Credits

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: PHY-121 and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122L.

PHY-122L

1 Total Credits

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: PHY-121 and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122.

CHM-444

3 Total Credits

CHM-444L

1 Total Credits

CHM-365

3 Total Credits

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.

CHM-365L

1 Total Credits

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.

CHM-448

3 Total Credits

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.

CHM-448L

1 Total Credits

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.

SCI-495

4 Total Credits

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.

GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
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

More Resources

Learning Goals

Financial

Calculate My Costs

Tuition & Financing

Scholarships & Grants

Information

Admission

Start Your Journey Today

If you are interested in pursuing a career in chemistry, apply for enrollment in GCU’s bachelor’s in chemistry degree. Complete the form on this page to get started.

Apply Now

The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (“BLS”), Chemists and Materials Scientists as of May 2021, retrieved on May 5, 2023. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 and 2021 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. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, and accept employment from, determines salary not only based on education, but also individual characteristics and skills and fit to that organization (among other categories) against a pool of candidates.