Chemistry

The Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at California State University offers students a comprehensive foundation in the fundamental principles of chemistry, preparing them for diverse careers in scientific research, industry, education, and healthcare. The program is designed to develop students' critical thinking, laboratory skills, and understanding of chemical theories to address real-world problems. Core courses include organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry, complemented by advanced electives that allow students to specialize in areas such as biochemistry, materials science, or environmental chemistry. Laboratory components emphasize hands-on experience with modern instrumentation and techniques, fostering proficiency in data analysis and experimental design. The curriculum integrates lectures, seminars, and research projects, encouraging collaborative work and independent inquiry. Opportunities for internships, research assistantships, and participation in faculty-led projects provide practical exposure and enhance career readiness. The program also emphasizes the importance of scientific communication and ethical research practices. Graduates of the Chemistry program at CSU are well-equipped to pursue advanced degrees or enter the workforce in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, environmental agencies, and chemical manufacturing. The faculty are dedicated to mentoring students and fostering an innovative and inclusive learning environment. Facilities include state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with modern instrumentation to support experimental learning. Students are encouraged to engage in professional development activities, attend conferences, and join chemistry clubs to expand their network and stay updated with current developments in the field. The CSU Chemistry program aims to produce graduates who are not only skilled chemists but also responsible citizens equipped to contribute to society through scientific knowledge and ethical practices. Comprehensive support services, career counseling, and interdisciplinary opportunities ensure students are prepared to thrive in graduate studies or the competitive job market.

Lower Division Requirements (28 Units)

Chemistry
CHEM 121 General Chemistry I (4)
CHEM 122 General Chemistry II (4)
CHEM 250 Quantitative Analysis (3)
CHEM 251 Quantitative Analysis Laboratory (1)
 

Math
MATH 150 Calculus I (4)
MATH 151 Calculus II (4)
 

Physics
Choose one of the following:
PHYS 100 Introduction to Physics I (4)
PHYS 200 General Physics I (4)

Choose one of the following:
PHYS 101 Introduction to Physics II (4)
PHYS 201 General Physics II (4)

Upper Division Requirements (22 units)

CHEM 305 Computer Applications in Chemistry (1)
CHEM 311 Organic Chemistry I (3)
CHEM 312 Organic Chemistry I Laboratory (1)
CHEM 314 Organic Chemistry II (3)
CHEM 315 Organic Chemistry II Laboratory (1)
CHEM 371 Physical Chemistry I (3)
CHEM 372 Physical Chemistry Laboratory (1)
CHEM 373 Physical Chemistry II (3)
CHEM 460 Biochemistry I (3)
CHEM 461 Biochemistry I Laboratory (1)
CHEM 499 Chemistry Capstone (2)

(Nine units of the above courses will be counted toward lower-division GE Categories B1, B3, and B4)

Upper Division Chemistry Electives (20 units)

A total of twenty units of electives from those listed below are needed, including a minimum of three lab courses
denoted (L):

CHEM 301 Environmental Chemistry - Atmosphere and Climate (3)
CHEM 302 Environmental Chemistry - Water and Soil (4) L
CHEM 313 Organic Chemistry I Learning Community (1)
CHEM 316 Organic Chemistry II Learning Community (1)
CHEM 330 The History of Science: Non-Western Origins and the Western Revolution (HIST) (3) I
CHEM 335 The Chemistry of the Kitchen (3) L, I
CHEM 341 Drug Discovery and Development (BUS/ECON) (3) I
CHEM 343 Forensic Science (3) L, I
CHEM 344 Energy and Society [PHYS] (3) I
CHEM 410 Advanced Organic Synthesis (4) L
CHEM 415 Molecular Structure Determination (4) L
CHEM 420 Advanced Inorganic Chemistry (3)
CHEM 450 Instrumental Analysis and Laboratory (4) L
CHEM 462 Biochemistry II (3)
CHEM 463 Biochemistry II Laboratory (1)L
CHEM 465 Bioinorganic Chemistry (4) L
CHEM 490 Special Topics in Chemistry (1-3)
CHEM 491 Special Laboratory Topics in Chemistry (1-3) L

CHEM 492 Internship/ Service Learning (1-3) L, R
CHEM 494 Independent Research (1-3) L, R
CHEM 497 Directed Studies (1-3)

I A maximum of three units of upper-division interdisciplinary GE credit (CHEM 330-349 or CHEM 430-449) may be applied as chemistry electives towards the degree.

R No more than a combined total of six units of CHEM 492, 494, and 497 may be applied as electives. No more than one CHEM 492 or CHEM 494 may be (by petition) considered a laboratory elective.

Required Supporting and Other GE Courses (45 units)

American Institutions Requirement (6)
Other Courses in GE Categories A-E (39)
Electives in Any Discipline (5)

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Four-Year Plan to Graduation: Bachelor of Science in Chemistry

First Year

FALL

CHEM 121 General Chemistry I (4)   (or CHEM 105)
CHEM 123 General Chemistry Problem Solving I (1)   (recommended)
MATH 150 Calculus I (4)   (or MATH 105)
General Education Course (3-4)   (BIOL 200 suggested)
General Education Course (3)

SPRING

CHEM 122 General Chemistry II (4)
CHEM 124 General Chemistry Problem Solving II (1)   (recommended)
MATH 151 Calculus II (4)
General Education Course (3)
General Education Course (3)

Second Year

FALL

CHEM 250 Quantitative Analysis (3)   (can take this in Spring with lab)
CHEM 251 Quantitative Analysis Laboratory (1)
CHEM 311 Organic Chemistry I (3)
CHEM 312 Organic Chemistry I Laboratory (1)
CHEM 313 Organic Chemistry Problem Solving I (1)   (recommended)
PHYS 200 General Physics I (4)   (or PHYS 100)
General Education Course (3)   (or independent research)

SPRING

CHEM 314 Organic Chemistry II (3)
CHEM 315 Organic Chemistry II Laboratory (1)
CHEM 316 Organic Chemistry Problem Solving II (1)   (recommended)
PHYS 201 General Physics II (4)   (or PHYS 101)
General Education Course (3)   (or independent research)
General Education Course (3)

Third Year

FALL

CHEM 305 Computer Applications in Chemistry (1)
CHEM 371 Physical Chemistry I (3)
CHEM 372 Physical Chemistry Laboratory I (1)
CHEM 374 Physical Chemistry Problem Solving I (1)   (recommended)
Chemistry Elective (3-4)
General Education Course (3)   (or independent research)

SPRING

CHEM 373 Physical Chemistry II (3)
Chemistry Elective (3-4)
CHEM 494 Research (1-3)   (recommended)
General Education Course (3)   (can be UDIGE course)
General Education Course (3)

Fourth Year

FALL

CHEM 460 Biochemistry I (3)   (can take in Spring)
CHEM 461 Biochemistry I Laboratory (1) (can take in spring)
CHEM 494 Research (1-3)   (recommended)
Chemistry Elective (3-4)
Chemistry Elective (3-4)
General Education Course (3)   (or elective course)

SPRING

CHEM 499 Chemistry Capstone (2)
Chemistry Elective (3-4)
Chemistry Elective (3-4)
General Education Course (3)   (or elective course)
General Education Course (3)

Note to Students: To maximize University Electives, it is recommended that the nine units of upper-division, interdisciplinary GE courses (numbered 330-349 or 430-449) be taken from those courses marked with an asterisk (*), in order to meet simultaneously Categories A-E and the nine units of Upper-Division GE.

International Undergraduate Admission Requirements

The process for freshmen and transfer students is the same; however, as a transfer student additional criteria must be met. This additional criteria is marked with an *.

International Checklist & Application

International Freshmen Checklist  

International Transfer Checklist 

Financial Affidavit for Undergraduate applicants 

Submit all application documents to the Center for International Affairs. 

*Transfer Students: We are currently accepting applications from all community colleges in the U.S.  Please make sure that you have at least 60 units and have completed “Oral communication”, “Written communication”, “Critical thinking” and “College level mathematics/quantitative reasoning” with “C” or better.  Please note that the Nursing programs are closed for international students.  

English Score

Submit the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or other acceptable test (see below for list of tests).  Scores must be sent directly to CSUCI from testing agency.

Acceptable English Placement Exams

TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language with a minimum Paper-Based score of 500, a minimum Computer Based score of 173 or a minimum Internet Based score of 61.

IELTS – International English Language Test System with an overall band score of 6.0.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at California State University provides students with a comprehensive education in the fundamental principles of chemistry, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry. Regarding financing studies, students have access to a variety of financial aid options to support their academic pursuits. California State University offers federal and state financial aid programs, including Pell Grants, Cal Grants, and Federal Work-Study opportunities, which students can apply for through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Additionally, the university has scholarships specifically for science students, including those enrolled in the Chemistry program, based on academic achievement, financial need, and other criteria. Students may also explore private scholarships and external funding sources related to chemistry and scientific research.

The university provides information and resources to help students navigate the application process for financial aid, including counseling, workshops, and online guides. Tuition fees at California State University are relatively affordable compared to other institutions, with in-state residents benefiting from lower rates; out-of-state students may be able to reduce costs through scholarships, assistantships, or transfer credits. Moreover, students are encouraged to participate in part-time employment opportunities on campus, such as research assistantships or teaching assistantships, which can provide both income and professional experience in the field of chemistry.

Financial planning is an integral part of the academic journey, and students are advised to consult the university’s financial aid office to develop a personalized funding plan. The university also promotes awareness of loan options, including federal student loans with manageable interest rates. Overall, the combination of institutional aid, external scholarships, work opportunities, and careful financial planning can make pursuing a degree in Chemistry at California State University financially feasible for many students.

The Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at California State University offers students a comprehensive education in the fundamental principles of chemistry and its applications. The program is designed to equip students with a strong foundation in organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry, preparing them for careers in research, industry, education, or further graduate study. Students will engage in both lecture-based learning and laboratory research, gaining practical skills in chemical analysis, laboratory techniques, and data interpretation. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and the scientific method, fostering the ability to apply chemical principles to real-world challenges. In addition to core requirements, students have opportunities to select electives that align with their interests, such as biochemistry, environmental chemistry, or materials science. The program also encourages participation in internships, research projects, and professional development activities to enhance employment prospects upon graduation. Faculty members are active researchers, contributing to advancements in various fields of chemistry, and often involve students in their projects. Facilities include well-equipped laboratories and research centers supporting experimental learning. Graduates of the program are prepared for entry-level positions in chemical manufacturing, pharmaceutical companies, environmental agencies, or to pursue graduate studies in chemistry or related disciplines. The program aims to foster analytical skills, ethical scientific practice, and a commitment to continual learning, all within the context of a diverse and inclusive academic community.