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Chemistry

College of Liberal Arts & Sciences

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What is Chemistry?

Chemistry is the study of matter at the molecular level. Professional chemists

  • make new compounds, like pharmaceuticals,
  • develop new ways to measure chemical reactions at the limits of space and time, and
  • create new theoretical frameworks to understand and predict molecular behavior.

Through classwork and hands-on laboratory learning, you’ll develop the skills to tackle a variety of technical problems in environments that range from aerospace to the local zoo. You’ll also have the opportunity to join research labs and take part in internships at various companies.

When you apply, you can choose to apply to either 

  • Chemistry (Bachelor of Science in Chemistry) or 
  • Chemistry BSLAS (Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts and Sciences). 

The Chemistry BS degree is certified by the American Chemical Society. It is intended for people who intend to pursue a career in the chemical sciences. Our Chemistry BSLAS major has fewer technical requirements, which allows for more flexibility to pursue other interests (frequently the health sciences). 

Career Options

  • Chemistry
  • Dentistry
  • Environmental Chemistry
  • Government
  • Medicine
  • Pharmacy
  • Research
  • Teaching

Post-Graduation Success1

95% employed or continuing education

34% employed after graduation

61% attending graduate school

$54,074 average starting annual income

Sample employer destinations: AbbVie (2), Eli Lilly & Co. (2), Intertek (2) View All

Sample grad school destinations: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Illinois Chicago, University of Chicago View All

Program Resources

College of Liberal Arts & Sciences Program Webpage Degree Requirements

Review Criteria

First-Year Major-Specific Criteria

  • Calculus preferred (if available at high school)
  • Demonstrated understanding of and interest in the major

View All Review Criteria

Transfer Criteria

Transfer Handbook

Graduation & Retention2

3.9 years to degree

95% first-year retention rate

76% four-year graduation rate

88% six-year graduation rate

Annual Program Costs3

Illinois Resident

  • Tuition: $18,260
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses: $18,884
  • Total: $42,198

Non-Resident

  • Tuition: $38,612
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses:$19,224
  • Total: $62,890

International

  • Tuition: $41,140
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses: $19,224
  • Total: $65,418

Related Majors

1 Post-graduate data was collected through the Illini Success initiative, which primarily relies on self-reported survey data sources. Statistics are aggregated from the past three years. Please note that total compensation may be greater than annual salary as other forms of compensation (e.g., signing bonus, commission, benefits) are not included. For more information on Illini Success data and methods, please visit the Illini Success website. For average wage or salary information five years after entry into an occupation, visit the Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes Explorer.

2 Graduation and retention data comes from several majors within a similar interest area. Data may not yet be available for newly created programs. Years-to-degree data is only available for programs from which you can earn a degree. Retention and graduation rates are only available for programs that you can apply directly into. Retention rates reflect retention to the university, not necessarily retention within the major.

3 "Expenses" are estimated and include books, supplies, housing, and other living expenses. The exact amount you’ll pay depends on where you decide to live, the meal plan you choose, and your overall lifestyle. To learn more about costs, please visit the Office of Student Financial Aid website. To learn the average monthly student loan payment over a period of 20 years based on estimated cost, visit the Illinois College2Career website.

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