Chemistry

The Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry at the University of Kansas offers students a comprehensive foundation in the core principles of chemistry, combined with opportunities for academic exploration and hands-on laboratory experience. This program is designed for students interested in understanding the fundamental aspects of matter, its properties, composition, and the transformations it undergoes. The curriculum includes courses in inorganic, organic, physical, and analytical chemistry, providing a well-rounded education that prepares graduates for diverse career paths in research, industry, education, and further graduate study. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, enabling them to develop practical skills and engage in cutting-edge research projects. The program emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific communication, equipping students to address complex scientific challenges. Additionally, the program offers specialized tracks and electives that allow students to tailor their education towards particular interests such as biochemistry, environmental chemistry, or materials science. The Department of Chemistry at the University of Kansas also provides excellent support through mentorship, internships, and research opportunities that foster academic growth and professional development. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to pursue advanced degrees in chemistry or related fields, or to enter the workforce in industries such as pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, environmental consulting, and education. With a commitment to academic excellence and research innovation, the Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry aims to cultivate knowledgeable, skilled, and ethically responsible scientists who can contribute meaningfully to society.

Each student must complete (with a B or better) a distribution requirement consisting of two courses selected from the following list of introductory courses in the 4 major areas of study:

In addition, the student must also complete (with a B or better) CHEM 700 (Responsible Scholarship in the Chemical Sciences) and CHEM 701 (Laboratory Safety in the Chemical Sciences).

The minimum total credit hours required for the master’s degree is 30.

The candidate for the master’s degree must complete a thesis that does not exceed one-third of the credit hours and demands the solution of some research problem in chemistry. The remaining work may consist of additional specialized courses in chemistry or in related fields such as physics, mathematics, microbiology, biochemistry, or chemical engineering. Students completing a master’s thesis in chemical education must take EPSY 715 Understanding Research in Education and EPSY 710 Introduction to Statistical Analysis. Courses from outside the department cannot be from more than 2 departments.

Applications must include academic transcripts from all post-secondary schools attended, as well as recommendation letters from 3 individuals familiar with the applicant’s academic background and abilities. Additional materials that are strongly recommended include Graduate Record Examination scores (GRE), a resume/CV and a personal statement describing the applicant’s qualifications and reasons for pursuing a graduate degree in chemistry.

International applicants should also provide official scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

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

While it is not guaranteed, the department does its best to provide funding in the form of Graduate Teaching Assistantship (GTA) appointments to all incoming graduate students.  GTA appointments are awarded for the academic year and come with:

• a competitive academic year (9 month) salary
• a 100% tuition waiver for all courses at KU
• payment of up to 3 hours of student fees
• optional University-subsidized group health insurance 

The appointments are guaranteed based on performance for up to 3 years for M.A. students, and 6 years for students who receive both an M.A. and a Ph.D. at The University of Kansas.  GTAs in the department receive thorough training in language instruction, close mentoring, and the opportunity to teach French at a variety of levels, providing them with a strong base of teaching experience upon entering the job market. Additional information about teaching for the department is available on the Graduate Funding page of our departmental website.

Post-comprehensive students completing their dissertations are also eligible to apply for 1 of the the departmental Max Kade Dissertation Fellowships.

The University of Kansas offers a comprehensive undergraduate program in Chemistry designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the principles and applications of chemistry. The Bachelor's degree in Chemistry encompasses both theoretical knowledge and practical laboratory skills, preparing graduates for diverse careers in science, research, education, industry, and health sciences. The curriculum includes core courses such as General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, and Analytical Chemistry, along with advanced electives that allow students to specialize in areas like Biochemistry, Materials Chemistry, or Environmental Chemistry. The program emphasizes experiential learning through research opportunities, internships, and undergraduate laboratories, fostering hands-on skills and a deeper understanding of chemical concepts. Students are encouraged to participate in faculty-led research projects, which are aimed at current scientific challenges and innovations. The university also offers options for students to pursue a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry, depending on their academic and professional goals. The department maintains modern laboratories, equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation, to support active learning and research. The program prepares students for graduate studies in chemistry or related fields, as well as for careers in pharmaceuticals, forensics, teaching, and industrial research. Additionally, the university promotes interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing chemistry students to engage with other departments such as Biology, Environmental Science, and Engineering. Support services are available through academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling to help students succeed and transition into their professional paths. Upon graduation, students receive a well-rounded education that combines theoretical understanding with practical experience, making them competitive in various scientific and technical employment sectors. The program also aligns with national and international standards for chemistry education, ensuring students are prepared for certification exams and professional development opportunities. Overall, the University of Kansas’ Chemistry program aims to cultivate analytical thinking, scientific inquiry, and ethical considerations that are essential for responsible practice in the chemical sciences.