Chemistry, BA

The Bachelor of Arts in chemistry is recommended for those students interested in secondary education science teaching, certain careers in health medicine or a career in the paramedical laboratory specialties. 

Students learn to perform and design chemical experiments by using modern instrumentation (including NMR, FT-IR, GC-MS, and HPLC) and computers in a well-equipped laboratory where they can observe chemical phenomena for themselves. Some examples of the scope of chemistry application at UD include: synthesis of polymers and drugs; analyses of foods; study of environmental hazards; and calculations of energy values of molecular orbitals.

Degree Requirements

30 credit hours in chemistry to include:

• General Chemistry 1303/1103, 1304/1104
• Analytical Chemistry 2414/2014
• Inorganic Chemistry 3320
• Organic Chemistry 3321/3121, 3322/3122
• Physical Chemistry 3331/3131
• Biochemistry 3335/3135
• Chemical Literature 3151
• Chemistry Seminar 4153.
• Also: General Biology 1311/1111; General Physics 2311/2111, 2312/2112; Calculus 1404, 1411.

A grade of "C" or above in a prerequisite course is required for enrollment in an advanced course in chemistry. The chemistry and biochemistry majors are encouraged to take additional courses (e.g. Advanced Organic Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, the second semester of Physical Chemistry for biochemistry majors) beyond the required courses specified above.

Comprehensive Examination

All chemistry and biochemistry majors must pass a general written comprehensive examination. The examination consists of questions in general chemistry, analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry and biochemistry. All questions on the exam are based upon prior coursework. A study guide and sample questions are available from the department. Students can earn a pass with distinction, pass, low pass or failure. Students normally take the comprehensive exam at the beginning of the spring semester in their senior year.