Chemistry
Study the building blocks of matter and create new substances
What You'll Study
Chemistry is the central science. It bridges physics and biology. You study atoms and molecules, how they interact, and how to change them to create medicines, materials, and energy.
- Organic Chemistry
- Inorganic Chemistry
- Physical Chemistry
- Analytical Chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Lab Safety & Techniques
- Spectroscopy
- Quantum Chemistry Basics
Example Classes
How to Know If You'll Like It
You'll probably enjoy this if...
- ✓You loved performing titrations and mixing chemicals in high school
- ✓You are curious about what things are made of
- ✓You have good manual dexterity (lab hands)
- ✓You are patient (reactions take time)
- ✓You are interested in medicine or pharma
- ✓You like cooking (it's just chemistry!)
You might not enjoy this if...
- ✕You are clumsy (labs can be dangerous)
- ✕You dislike memorization (Organic chem requires some)
- ✕You want a clean desk job (labs can be smelly/messy)
- ✕You dislike wearing goggles/coats all day
Self-Check Quiz
Answer these questions honestly to see if this major might be a good fit for you.
Did you enjoy balancing chemical equations?
Career Outcomes
Featured In-Demand Careers
Pharmacist
Dispense medications, counsel patients, and ensure safe and effective pharmaceutical care.
Biomedical Engineer
Apply engineering principles to healthcare, developing medical devices, prosthetics, and diagnostic equipment.
Environmental Engineer
Develop solutions to environmental problems including pollution control, waste management, and sustainability.
Other Common Career Paths
- •Chemist
- •Forensic Scientist
- •Toxicologist
- •Pharmacist
- •Patent Lawyer
Industries
Try It First
Test if you like this field before committing to a major:
Conduct a kitchen chemistry experiment (e.g., Red Cabbage pH indicator).
Research the molecular structure of your favorite food or medicine.
Grow a large crystal garden and document the growth conditions.
Related Majors
Frequently Asked Questions
Chemistry = Small scale discovery. ChemE = Large scale production.
It's notorious as a "weed-out" class, but manageable with study.
For leading research, yes. For lab tech jobs, BS is fine.
Yes, Chemistry is a very common Pre-Med major.
Modern labs are very safe, but you must follow rules strict.
Ready to Explore This Major?
Get personalized guidance on whether Chemistry is right for you and how to build a competitive profile.