Chemistry

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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

90% employed or continuing education

21% employed after graduation

69% attending graduate school

$56,254 average starting annual income

Sample employer destinations: Integrated Bioprocessing Research Laboratory, Crystal Pharmatech, Mercer, Gilead Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Glanbia Performance Nutrition, Constellation, Rochester Midland Corporation View All

Sample grad school destinations: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Southern California, Illinois Institute of Technology, Roger Williams University, University of Michigan, Medical College of Wisconsin, Duke University View All

Program Resources

College of Liberal Arts & Sciences Program Webpage Degree Requirements

Review Criteria

First-Year Major-Specific Criteria

Strong math and science coursework and performance
Calculus preferred (if available at high school)
4 years of science
Demonstrated understanding of and interest in the major

View All Review Criteria

Transfer Criteria

Transfer Handbook

Graduation & Retention²

4.0 years to degree

97% returned for second year

72% graduated within 4 years

82% graduated within 6 years

Annual Program Costs³

Illinois Resident

Tuition: $18,626
Fees: $5,182
Expenses: $19,558
Total: $43,366

Non-Resident

Tuition: $41,302
Fees: $5,182
Expenses:$19,898
Total: $66,382

International

Tuition: $43,950
Fees: $5,182
Expenses: $19,898
Total: $69,030

Related Majors

Biochemistry - LAS

Bioengineering - ENG

Chemical Engineering - LAS

Materials Science and Engineering - ENG

Molecular and Cellular Biology - LAS

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.