Chemistry, B.S.
Chemistry has an impact on every aspect of our world. Every day, chemists work to develop life-changing medicines, improve methods for growing our foods, reduce energy use and pollution and much more.
The chemistry major at LR offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide you with creative and analytical insight into the importance of chemistry in our world.
Chemistry is often called the central science because it bridges other natural sciences, including physics, geology and biology. Students electing to pursue a degree in chemistry have the opportunity to become a part of one of the largest scientific professions in the United States.
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Take the next step toward completing your Bachelor of Science in Chemistry degree at Lenoir-Rhyne University.
Get StartedTake the next step toward completing your Bachelor of Science in Chemistry degree at Lenoir-Rhyne University.
Learning Inside & Outside the Classroom
Future employers and graduate schools will look at your entire undergraduate work both inside and outside the classroom. Take full advantage of all opportunities that are available to you at LR, including research, study abroad, internships, student clubs and organizations.
The chemistry major is rigorous yet rewarding and offers many opportunities to gain invaluable experience in and out of the classroom.
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Benefits of Majoring in Chemistry
Pursuing a degree in chemistry gives you the opportunity to become a part of one of the largest scientific professions in the United States. The benefits of a chemistry degree include:
- Developing problem-solving and critical thinking skills
- Learning to effectively collaborate with others
- Honing your research abilities
- Understanding how to best analyze data and draw conclusions
- Enhancing your writing and presentation skills
- Preparation for professional programs such as medicine, dentistry, veterinary science and physical therapy
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Internships, Careers & Graduate School
A degree in chemistry will provide you with the background and critical thinking skills to be successful in a variety of post-graduate situations.
Internships
As a student, you can complete internships, allowing you to apply what you’ve learned in class and gain real-world experience. We work in partnership with local companies and organizations to provide opportunities for you to collaborate with professionals in the field.
Graduate School
It is an option for you if you are planning to pursue graduate study (M.S. or Ph.D.), to become a health professional, work in the chemical or pharmaceutical industries or teach at the K-12 or collegiate level.
Students interested in applying to medical, dental, veterinary, pharmacy, or physical therapy school can major in chemistry (usually in the biochemistry track).
Careers
Career opportunities in science and technology are consistently growing. As a chemistry graduate, you could become any of the following and more.
- Analytical chemist
- Chemical oceanographer
- Chemical salesperson
- Engineer
- Environmental protection specialist
- Food researcher
- Forensic chemist
- Formulation chemist
- Medical scientist
- Researcher and product developer
- Teacher or professor
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Outside the Classroom
We understand that education goes beyond our university campus. We offer many ways to expand your learning and get connected with peers in the industry.
Research
You will be required to complete a year-long research project. With the assistance of faculty mentors, you can focus on an area of study, while developing vital skills in research methodology.
Lecture Series
Our College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics hosts the Steelman Lecture Series through which renowned scientists and writers are invited to speak to the campus and surrounding community.
Social & Networking Events
Career and graduate school nights are also held annually. These events feature former students and respected professionals who offer information and guidance about various career options.
Admission & Financial Aid
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Undergraduate AdmissionOur admission team is here to assist you in making the college search process as easy as possible. Our counselors are happy to provide the information and guidance you need to submit your application, apply for financial aid and scholarships, visit and tour our campus.
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Financial AidWe recognize that paying for college is a top concern for students and their families. Our financial aid staff is here to provide you with financial aid options and assistance to help you achieve your educational goals.
Major Requirements
Lenoir-Rhyne University's Chemistry major offers a rigorous and engaging exploration of the principles that govern matter and its transformations. The curriculum fosters both creative and analytical thinking, emphasizing the essential role of chemistry in scientific discovery and real-world applications. The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Chemistry prepares students for a wide range of opportunities, including graduate study, professional school (such as medicine or pharmacy) and careers in research, industry, education and government. As one of the largest and most influential scientific fields in the U.S., chemistry offers a strong foundation for meaningful, impactful work across diverse sectors.
Honors
Students majoring in Chemistry and judged qualified by the faculty may, upon invitation, elect to pursue honors work in Chemistry. To graduate ''With Honors in Chemistry,'' students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 and a minimum major GPA of 3.5, with no Chemistry grade lower than a B-/2.7. They must present their research in a setting outside the chemistry department.
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General Education Requirements (37 hours)
Graduation Requirements (4 hours)
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Major Requirements (58 Hours)
- CHE 103 - General Chemistry and Qualitative Analysis I
- CHE 103L - General Chemistry and Qualitative Analysis Laboratory I
- CHE 104 - General Chemistry and Qualitative Analysis II
- CHE 104L - General Chemistry and Qualitative Analysis Laboratory II
- CHE 201 - Organic Chemistry
- CHE 201L - Organic Chemistry Laboratory
- CHE 202 - Organic Chemistry
- CHE 202L - Organic Chemistry Laboratory
- CHE 271 - Caring for Chemicals
- CHE 272 - Reading Chemical Research
- CHE 303 - Thermodynamics and Kinetics Theory
- CHE 304 - Quantum Mechanics
- CHE 321 - Analytical Chemistry I
- CHE 321L - Analytical Chemistry I Laboratory
- CHE 322 - Analytical Chemistry II
- CHE 322L - Analytical Chemistry II Laboratory
- CHE 371 - Creating Research Plans
- CHE 372 - Prototyping Chemical Research
- CHE 411 - Biochemistry I
- CHE 411L - Biochemistry I Laboratory
- CHE 471 - Conducting Research
- CHE 472 - Communicating Research
- MAT 165 - Calculus I
- MAT 166 - Calculus II
- PHY 211 - Analytical Physics I
- PHY 212 - Analytical Physics II
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Total Credit Hours - Minimum 120 hours
On occasion, technical and/or program requirements may also meet specific General Education requirements. Please confer with your program advisor to determine which courses, if any, may be counted accordingly.
All bachelor's degree programs at Lenoir-Rhyne require at least 120 credit hours. If, in combination, General Education, technical, and program requirements do not generate at least 120 hours, additional credits must be completed to achieve 120 hours. These classes may be general electives, or a student may complete a minor or additional major.
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General Elective Credits
General Electives (21 hours) as needed to reach 120 hours overall.
News & Events
One scholarship. Full tuition. A job after graduation. Michael Gerbitz ’27 just unlocked one of the best deals in higher education: the Department of Defense SMART Scholarship.
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Four new members bring leadership and experience to the Lenoir-Rhyne University Board of Trustees, as the university also honors the dedicated service of those concluding their terms.
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