Chemistry, the study of matter and its changes, is typically divided into analytical, environmental, inorganic, materials, organic, and physical. The Department of Chemistry offers a B.S. degree in Chemistry. In addition to the standard B.S. degree, students can choose options in Chemical Physics and in Environmental Chemistry. Students following these curricula meet the requirements for certification by the American Chemical Society. The department also offers a B.A. degree, with less emphasis on Chemistry courses and reduced Physics and Math requirements. Students have increased ease in meeting requirements for such areas as premedical, predental, or prepharmaceutical science, education, and administration.
Chem vials
The Department of Chemistry offers students excellent preparation for a career in chemistry and related fields. The chemistry major provides a strong background for preprofessional students aiming for graduate, medical, or allied health professional schools after graduation.
A Chemistry degree prepares students for graduate work in chemistry and related fields, and provides an appropriate background for medical, dental, or pharmacy school. B.S.-level chemists find employment in a wide range of companies, from the petrochemical to the pharmaceutical and biotech industries. Flavor and fragrance chemists work in companies that make food, beverages, and consumer products. Chemists working in materials science contribute to the development of new functional materials, including nanomaterials. Many chemists work in the public sector, focused on air and water quality, forensics, and drug analysis. Chemists also find employment outside the laboratory in areas such as chemical sales, science writing, teaching, and patent law.
Many Chemistry majors are engaged in research, some as early as their freshman year. These students work side by side with faculty, postdoctoral researchers, and graduate students on exciting projects at the cutting edge of modern chemistry. UCR's Undergraduate Chemistry Club meets regularly for social activities, field trips, networking, and outreach.
