Chemistry Degree Options

The Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry consists of four Options.

  • General Chemistry: Students following this Option prepare for research, industrial, and governmental careers or for graduate study in chemistry or related fields. Students completing this Option will receive a degree certified by the American Chemical Society. Click here for a program course sequence.
  • Industrial Chemistry: This Option serves students preparing for positions in science industries or in technical sales.
  • Biochemistry: Students who wish to prepare for careers in biomedical research or to gain admission to medical, dental, or pharmacy school usually follow this Option. Click here for a program course sequence.
  • Secondary Teaching Option in Chemistry: Completion of this Option qualifies students for an Initial Type 09 Illinois High School Certificate with a high school endorsement in science and a chemistry designation for grades 9-12. Certification requires the successful completion of the Illinois Certification Tests of Basic Skills, Chemistry Content, and Assessment of Professional Teaching (Secondary 6-12). The Secondary Teaching Program is accredited by the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), and meets Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) standards in science education. Click here for a program course sequence.

Physics Degree Options

The Bachelor of Science degree in Physics consists of three Options.

  • General Physics: Students following this Option prepare for research, industrial, and governmental careers or for graduate study in physics or related fields. Click here for information on the option.
  • Physics for Biosciences Applications: Students who wish to pursue careers in biophysics, medical physics, motion science or gain admission to medical, dental, or pharmacy school usually follow this option. Click here for information on the option.
  • Secondary Teaching Option in Physics: Completion of this Option qualifies students for an Initial Type 09 Illinois High School Certificate with a high school endorsement in science and a physics designation for grades 9-12. Certification requires the successful completion of the Illinois Certification Tests of Basic Skills, Physics Content, and Assessment of Professional Teaching (Secondary 6-12). The Secondary Teaching Program is accredited by the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), and meets Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) standards in science education.  Click here for information on the option.

Engineering Studies Program

The engineering studies program is for students who want the foundational courses needed for an engineering degree.  Click here to learn more.