Chemistry Majors
Explore your degree options
Bachelors of Science
The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Chemistry at ISU is certified by the American Chemical Society, ensuring rigorous preparation for advanced study and professional careers in the chemical sciences. Students benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes depth in analytical, organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry, along with extensive laboratory training that develops technical expertise and problem‑solving skills. A defining feature of the program is its strong commitment to undergraduate research: BS students have the unique opportunity to collaborate with faculty research groups, gaining hands-on experience with cutting-edge scientific inquiry. Our graduates gain the knowledge, skills, and practical foundation needed to excel in graduate school or to contribute meaningfully to industry, government, and academic careers in Chemistry.
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Chemistry – Highlights
- ACS certification: meets American Chemical Society standards for professional preparation.
- Rigorous coursework: advanced training in analytical, organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry.
- Extensive lab experience: hands‑on technical skill development and problem‑solving practice.
- Research integration: nearly all BS students collaborate with faculty research groups.
- Career readiness: strong foundation for graduate study or direct entry into industry, government, or academia.
Bachelors of Arts
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) program in Chemistry requires fewer courses than the Bachelor of Science track and is designed for students whose academic or career goals demand a strong foundation in Chemistry alongside expertise in other disciplines. This flexibility makes the BA particularly well-suited for students pursuing careers in medicine, veterinary science, or secondary education, as it allows them to integrate coursework from outside the Department of Chemistry. In addition, BA students have full access to research opportunities within the department, ensuring they can gain valuable hands-on experience while tailoring their studies to their broader professional interests.
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Chemistry – Highlights
- Flexible curriculum: fewer required courses, allowing broader academic exploration.
- Interdisciplinary focus: ideal for careers combining Chemistry with medicine, veterinary science, or education.
- Research access: BA students can fully participate in departmental research opportunities.
- Broader study options: more room for electives outside Chemistry.
Everything you need to unearth your potential
Undergraduate Chemistry Research
Where curiosity turns into discovery — our students have the opportunity to conduct research under our excellent research faculty.
Undergraduate Chemistry Research
Careers in Chemistry
Potential is in your nature. Turning it into a career is in ours.
Making Connections
Learning Community
The Chemistry Learning Community (CLC) creates a welcoming environment where chemistry students can grow both academically and personally. With research at the heart of the program, the CLC helps students explore the excitement of discovery while building connections with peers and faculty. Weekly meetings and activities bring together freshmen and transfer students, offering a supportive space to learn, collaborate, and thrive throughout the year.
Students in the CLC enroll in Chemistry 1010: Chemistry Learning Community Orientation during the fall and spring semesters. This course introduces them to key resources at Iowa State University, including Workday, Canvas, and the Society of Chemistry Undergraduate Majors (SCUM) — our student chemistry club. Beyond academics, the CLC emphasizes team‑building, problem‑solving, and professional development through field trips, service opportunities, and faculty‑led research discussions. And because balance matters, we also plan plenty of fun activities to make the experience memorable.
Chemistry Club
The Society for Chemistry Undergraduate Majors (SCUM) is a student-led organization run by undergraduate students of all majors who are passionate about sharing the excitement of science with the community. Members design and perform engaging demonstrations that bring chemistry to life for K–12 students and throughout the Ames community, sparking curiosity and showing how scientific concepts connect to everyday experiences. SCUM meets weekly to practice the experiments and ensure every demonstration is performed safely and confidently.
In addition to community outreach, the club plays an active role in recruitment events for the department and university. By showcasing interactive demonstrations and connecting with prospective students, members highlight the collaborative and creative spirit of the chemistry department. The club not only strengthens ties between the university and local schools but also provides its undergraduate members with valuable experience in leadership, communication, and science education.
Joining the club means you’ll get to share your love of science, meet new friends, and build skills in teaching and leadership — all while having a blast.