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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. It allows more flexibility to pursue other interests (frequently the health sciences). The Chemistry BSLAS major also offers a Secondary Education option for the teaching of Chemistry in high schools.

Career Options

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

Post-Graduation Success1

80% employed or continuing education

46% employed after graduation

34% attending graduate school

$45,611 average starting annual income

Sample employer destinations: AbbVie, Cargill, Ingredion View All

Sample grad school destinations: University of Illinois at Chicago, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, University of Michigan 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 Guide

Graduation & Retention2

4.0 years to degree

92% first-year retention rate

67% four-year graduation rate

84% six-year graduation rate

Annual Program Costs3

Illinois Resident

  • Tuition: $17,866
  • Fees: $4,928
  • Expenses: $18,222
  • Total: $41,016

Non-Resident

  • Tuition: $36,986
  • Fees: $4,928
  • Expenses:$18,562
  • Total: $60,476

International

  • Tuition: $39,434
  • Fees: $4,928
  • Expenses: $18,562
  • Total: $62,924

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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