Chemistry (BS)

Program Description

Chemistry is commonly referred to as the central science:  The study of all natural and man-made matter.  The work of chemists spans five major branches of study.  Biochemists study the carbon-based molecules and chemical processes that occur in people and all living organisms.  Analytical chemists use laboratory instruments and advanced technology to develop new ways to observe and measure chemical substances.  Organic chemists study natural and man-made carbon-based molecules, and inorganic chemists study non-carbon solids and gases.  Physical chemists use physics and chemistry to study matter and energy, often through use of computer simulations.

Concord's curriculum is built on the use of hands-on laboratory equipment and is guided by recommendations of the American Chemical Society Committee on Professional Training.  After completing basic introductory and foundational coursework, chemistry majors can choose to focus in-depth coursework suitable for a wide variety of careers.

The degree requires successful completion of 120 semester hours, including:  (1) the General Education Program (29-30 credit hours); (2) the multidisciplinary Core Requirements in chemistry, physics, and mathematics (43-49 credit hours); and (3) in-depth course work from one of the four elective concentrations listed below (generally 12-16 credit hours).  Each of the elective concentrations is designed for different career interests.

• Biochemistry (pre-Medicine) - Designed for students interested in medical school, biomedical research, or pharmaceutical research and product development.  This concentration is also suitable for double majors in Chemistry and Biology.
   
• Professional Chemistry - Designed for students interested in chemistry research and graduate programs, as well as professional careers as a chemist.  Students interested in graduate programs in chemistry should consider taking MATH 254, MATH 255, CHEM 332, CHEM 352, CHEM 401, CHEM 402, CHEM 413, and additional elective courses in mathematics and/or physics in consultation with a chemistry faculty advisor.
   
• Geochemistry - Designed for students interested in chemistry applied to the Earth and environmental  sciences, and careers in environmental chemistry.  This concentration is also suitable for double majors in Chemistry and Environmental Geosciences.
   
• 3+1 Health Sciences (pre-Pharmacy) - Designed for students interested in pharmacy school or clinical lab science (medical technology).  Students in the 3+1 concentration complete three (3) years of coursework at Concord followed by the first year of the 4-Year Doctor of Pharmacy program or a one-year residency at a fully accredited hospital School of Medical Technology and Clinical Lab science (such as the Jefferson College of Health Sciences, Roanoke, VA).  Students should remain in close contact with a chemistry adviser or assure that all requirements for admission are met, as they can vary from school to school.  Admission to pharmacy schools and clinical lab science programs is competitive.  Students who fail to be admitted will not be eligible for the 3+1 elective concentration and will be referred to one of the other elective concentrations for their fourth year.