Program Details
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
Bachelor of ScienceRoanoke College
Chemistry is the study of matter and its transformations. A major in chemistry can be a launching point for work, a Ph. D., medical school, or pharmacy school. Undergraduate research is required for graduation. You’ll work closely with a faculty member to design and conduct experiments, creating new knowledge. Instrumentation is a major strength of our department. We have a wide array of research-grade instrumentation and you’ll get to use all of it.
Outcomes
Outcomes: Students can apply the major concepts, theories, facts, and skills of chemistry. Students can prepare an effective scientific paper or report that clearly communicates scientific concepts. Students can prepare an effective scientific presentation that clearly communicates scientific concepts. Students can use concepts and strategies learned from lecture and laboratory experiences to independently design experiments in order to solve new problems. Students will work safely in the lab and will be able to evaluate the safety requirements of experiments.
Program Overview & Guidance

Program Guidance Element | What You Need to Know |
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Considerations for Selecting Degree | Are you fascinated by chemistry and understanding the world around you through science? Do you have strong quantitative skills and enjoy experiementing? Chemistry allows students to purse both very practical and very theoretical interests. |
Program Requirement Notes | Program Requirement Notes Two semesters of calculus and two semesters of physics required prior to physical chemistry (taken junior/senior year). The B.S. in Chemistry is certified by the American Chemical Society. |
Considerations When Selecting Courses |
Useful choices for transfer credit include general chemistry with lab, organic chemistry with lab, calculus. Transferring some foreign language courses will help students finish that college requirement faster.
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Program Requirements Beyond Specific Courses | |
Doing More With Your Degree | All BS Chemistry majors do research. Many are able to present this research at professional conferences. |
Program Successes & Highlights | Our graduates go in many directions. Some pursue medical school or health-related careers. Others go on to earn PhDs. And many head straight to jobs in industry. |
Program Credit Requirements

If you wish to see how your credits may apply, you can:
- Contact the institution where a staff member can help you map your credits to the requirements for this program.
- View the program requirements listed in the institution's catalog.
Applicable Admissions Agreements

The table below lists admissions agreements between Roanoke College and partner institutions that may guarantee admission to this program if you meet the required criteria. Click on the title name of the agreement to view a summary of those criteria.
You can view the full text of these Agreements in the Resource Center
What If I Have An Associate Degree Or Credit For Prior Learning?

Transfer Guidance Element | What You Need to Know |
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Associate Transfer Degree Completion | Courses completed as part of an associate's degree or general education certificate will be evaluated by our Registrar at admission, and appropriate transfer credits will be awarded. Nearly all general education requirements can be completed with transfer credits. Transferrable courses from an accredited college or university will apply to general education, major, and graduation requirements. UCGS and Passport courses will all transfer. |
Completion of Associate Degree Concurrent with High School | Transferrable courses from an accredited college or university taken as dual enrollment while in high school will apply to general education, major, and graduation requirements. Up to three additional World Language courses can satisfy the language requirement. UCGS and Passport courses will all transfer. |
Credit for Prior Learning | In general, Roanoke does not offer credit for prior learning outside of higher education coursework. Military training transcripted by an accredited institution of higher education is accepted. |
Did You Know That... |
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College Level Information

College Fit Guidance | What You Need to Know |
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Is This College Right For Me? | Roanoke has about 2000 students, mostly undergraduates. Classes are small, averaging 17 students, with a real commitment to teaching and supporting students. Expect close personal interactions with faculty and staff members who get to know you. Active athletic and recreational opportunities are part of the college as are a wide range of student clubs and activities. |
Transfer Student Catalog Year | Catalog year is determined by first semester of attendance. VCCS transfer students may choose a catalog from the two years prior to their first term of attendance if desired. |
First Year Student Catalog Year | Catalog year for freshmen is determined by first semester of attendance. |
Applying for Guaranteed Admissions | Expected transfer students should notify the admissions office as soon as possible, so we can provide advice on courses which will transfer. |
Where Can This Degree Transfer

Institution | Title | Degree | Award Name | Award Level | Delivery Mode |
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Randolph-Macon College | Chemistry - General (BS) | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Randolph-Macon College | Chemistry - Biochemistry (BS) | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Randolph-Macon College | Chemistry - Education (BS) | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Randolph-Macon College | Chemistry - Forensic Science (BS) | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Randolph-Macon College | Chemistry - Research (BS) | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Germanna Community College | Associate of Arts & Sciences Degree in Science | Associate | Associate of Arts and Sciences | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
Bridgewater College | Chemistry Major - BS | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Eastern Mennonite University | Bachelor of Science Biochemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Averett University | Bachelor of Arts in BioChemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
Averett University | Bachelor of Science in BioChemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Richard Bland College | Associate of Science-Clinical Lab Science | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
The University of Virginia's College at Wise | Bachelor of Science in Natural Sciences, Major in Biochemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Old Dominion University | Biochemistry-BS | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Marymount University | Biochemistry (BS) | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Bridgewater College | Biochemistry Major - BS | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Randolph-Macon College | Biology (BA) | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
Randolph-Macon College | Biology (BS) | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Eastern Mennonite University | Bachelor of Science Chemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Wytheville Community College | Associate of Arts & Sciences Degree in Science | Associate | Associate of Arts & Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Online, Hybrid |
Hollins University | BA in Chemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
Hollins University | BS in Chemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Mountain Gateway Community College | Associate of Science Degree in Science | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Online |
J Sargeant Reynolds Community College | Associate of Science in Science | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Online, Hybrid |
Brightpoint Community College | Associate of Science Degree in Science | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
Northern Virginia Community College | Science, A.S. | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Online |
Virginia Peninsula Community College | Associate of Science in Science | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Online |
Tidewater Community College | Associate of Science - Science | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person |
Ferrum College | B.S. in Biological Chemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
Virginia Western Community College | Associate of Science Degree in Science | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
Wytheville Community College | Associate of Science Degree in Science | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Online, Hybrid |
Sweet Briar College | Bachelor of Science in Chemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Christopher Newport University | Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Major in Biochemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Christopher Newport University | Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Major in Chemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
James Madison University | Bachelor of Science, Major in Biophysical Chemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
James Madison University | Bachelor of Science, Major in Chemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Longwood University | Chemistry: Biochemistry BS | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Longwood University | Chemistry BS | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Longwood University | Chemistry: Teacher Preparation in Chemistry BS | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Richard Bland College | Associate of Science-Physical Science | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
Radford University | BS in Chemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
The University of Virginia's College at Wise | Bachelor of Arts in Natural Sciences, Major in Chemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
The University of Virginia's College at Wise | Bachelor of Science in Natural Sciences, Major in Chemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Virginia Wesleyan University | Bachelor of Science in Chemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
George Mason University | Chemistry, BA | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | Not Specified |
George Mason University | Chemistry, BS | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Norfolk State University | Bachelor of Science in Chemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Norfolk State University | Bachelor of Science in Chemistry - (DNIMAS) Track | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Norfolk State University | Bachelor of Science in Chemistry - Secondary Education Concentration | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Norfolk State University | Bachelor of Science in Chemistry - Pre-Medicine Concentration | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Norfolk State University | Bachelor of Science in Chemistry - Pre-Medicine (DNIMAS) Track | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
William & Mary | Chemistry - Bachelor of Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Old Dominion University | Chemistry-BS | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
University of Mary Washington | BS in Biochemistry-ACS Cert. | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
University of Mary Washington | BS in Chemistry: Biochemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
University of Mary Washington | BS in Chemistry-ACS Certified | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
University of Mary Washington | BS in Chemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Shenandoah University | Bachelor of Science Chemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Bluefield University | BS in Chemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Randolph College | Bachelor of Science in Chemical Physics | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Randolph College | Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
Randolph College | Bachelor of Science in Chemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Virginia Commonwealth University | Chemistry with concentration in Biochemistry, Bachelor of Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Virginia Commonwealth University | Chemistry with concentration in Chemical Modeling, Bachelor of Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Virginia Commonwealth University | Chemistry with concentration in Chemical Science, Bachelor of Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Virginia Commonwealth University | Chemistry with concentration in Professional Chemist, Bachelor of Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Virginia Commonwealth University | Chemistry with concentration in Professional Chemist with Honors, Bachelor of Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Emory & Henry University | Chemistry (BA) | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
Emory & Henry University | Chemistry (BS) | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
University of Lynchburg | BA in Chemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
University of Lynchburg | BS in Chemistry | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
Careers Where This Degree Applies

O*Net Code | Name | Description | Parent |
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11-9121.01 | Clinical Research Coordinators | Plan, direct, or coordinate clinical research projects. Direct the activities of workers engaged in clinical research projects to ensure compliance with protocols and overall clinical objectives. May evaluate and analyze clinical data. | Management Occupations |
11-9121.00 | Natural Sciences Managers | Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, statistics, and research and development in these fields. | Management Occupations |
11-9121.02 | Water Resource Specialists | Design or implement programs and strategies related to water resource issues such as supply, quality, and regulatory compliance issues. | Management Occupations |
25-1052.00 | Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary | Teach courses pertaining to the chemical and physical properties and compositional changes of substances. Work may include providing instruction in the methods of qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching, and those who do a combination of teaching and research. | Educational Instruction and Library Occupations |
19-2031.00 | Chemists | Conduct qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses or experiments in laboratories for quality or process control or to develop new products or knowledge. | Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations |
19-4092.00 | Forensic Science Technicians | Collect, identify, classify, and analyze physical evidence related to criminal investigations. Perform tests on weapons or substances, such as fiber, hair, and tissue to determine significance to investigation. May testify as expert witnesses on evidence or crime laboratory techniques. May serve as specialists in area of expertise, such as ballistics, fingerprinting, handwriting, or biochemistry. | Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations |
19-4013.00 | Food Science Technicians | Work with food scientists or technologists to perform standardized qualitative and quantitative tests to determine physical or chemical properties of food or beverage products. Includes technicians who assist in research and development of production technology, quality control, packaging, processing, and use of foods. | Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations |
19-4031.00 | Chemical Technicians | Conduct chemical and physical laboratory tests to assist scientists in making qualitative and quantitative analyses of solids, liquids, and gaseous materials for research and development of new products or processes, quality control, maintenance of environmental standards, and other work involving experimental, theoretical, or practical application of chemistry and related sciences. | Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations |
19-1021.00 | Biochemists and Biophysicists | Study the chemical composition or physical principles of living cells and organisms, their electrical and mechanical energy, and related phenomena. May conduct research to further understanding of the complex chemical combinations and reactions involved in metabolism, reproduction, growth, and heredity. May determine the effects of foods, drugs, serums, hormones, and other substances on tissues and vital processes of living organisms. | Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations |
25-1042.00 | Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary | Teach courses in biological sciences. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research. | Educational Instruction and Library Occupations |
19-4021.00 | Biological Technicians | Assist biological and medical scientists. Set up, operate, and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment, monitor experiments, collect data and samples, make observations, and calculate and record results. May analyze organic substances, such as blood, food, and drugs. | Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations |
19-1042.00 | Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists | Conduct research dealing with the understanding of human diseases and the improvement of human health. Engage in clinical investigation, research and development, or other related activities. | Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations |
25-2031.00 | Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education | Teach one or more subjects to students at the secondary school level. | Educational Instruction and Library Occupations |
19-2041.01 | Climate Change Policy Analysts | Research and analyze policy developments related to climate change. Make climate-related recommendations for actions such as legislation, awareness campaigns, or fundraising approaches. | Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations |
19-2041.02 | Environmental Restoration Planners | Collaborate with field and biology staff to oversee the implementation of restoration projects and to develop new products. Process and synthesize complex scientific data into practical strategies for restoration, monitoring or management. | Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations |
25-1053.00 | Environmental Science Teachers, Postsecondary | Teach courses in environmental science. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research. | Educational Instruction and Library Occupations |
19-4042.00 | Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health | Perform laboratory and field tests to monitor the environment and investigate sources of pollution, including those that affect health, under the direction of an environmental scientist, engineer, or other specialist. May collect samples of gases, soil, water, and other materials for testing. | Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations |
19-2041.00 | Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health | Conduct research or perform investigation for the purpose of identifying, abating, or eliminating sources of pollutants or hazards that affect either the environment or public health. Using knowledge of various scientific disciplines, may collect, synthesize, study, report, and recommend action based on data derived from measurements or observations of air, food, soil, water, and other sources. | Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations |
19-2041.03 | Industrial Ecologists | Apply principles and processes of natural ecosystems to develop models for efficient industrial systems. Use knowledge from the physical and social sciences to maximize effective use of natural resources in the production and use of goods and services. Examine societal issues and their relationship with both technical systems and the environment. | Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations |
Cost To Complete
