Chemistry BA

Degree Awarded: Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Minimum Required Credits: 122                           
Co-op Option(s): Three Co-op, Two Co-op, One Co-op, No Co-op                                                       
Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code: 40.0501
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code: 11-9121, 19-2031, 19-4031

About the Program

Students in Drexel University’s Department of Chemistry engage in both foundational and advanced areas of chemistry, examining its applications in natural and technological contexts through diverse experiential learning opportunities.

Through hands-on research and access to state-of-the-art instrumentation chemistry students explore atomic- and molecular-scale structure, macroscopic properties and reactivity. Drexel chemistry majors gain the skills and experience needed to excel as leaders in research, teaching and innovation. Our graduates have been recognized for their contributions to academic, industrial and governmental research organizations around the world.

Drexel’s BA in Chemistry degree introduces students to the same sub-disciplines as the BS in Chemistry degree – however they are not required to take the full sequence of courses. The BA in Chemistry includes additional free electives, allowing students to easily explore other courses required for professional schools or double majors.

Students who complete the Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Chemistry will be able to communicate scientific ideas effectively, complete chemical computations, perform a variety of laboratory techniques and have an understanding of how atomic- and molecular-scale structure governs macroscopic properties and reactivity. Students will also improve their critical and analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

The first two years of chemistry courses in the BA program are taught by full-time chemistry faculty in classes that include only chemistry majors, allowing for small class sizes and close peer interaction. Students receive an introduction to the main subfields of chemistry, followed by a choice of advanced courses in the subfields that interest them the most, in addition to hands-on laboratory and research experience and culminating in a yearlong course-based research project supervised by a faculty member.

Students can complete up to 3 six-month co-op experiences as part of their plan of study. Co-operative education options prepare chemistry students to pursue advanced education and careers across wide-ranging areas.

This program is ideal for students who plan to enter medical, dental, or pharmaceutical school. It is also a good fit for students interested in chemistry-related careers in biotechnology, forensic chemistry, and environmental chemistry. BA in Chemistry graduates often work as laboratory technicians or as research assistants in medical school science departments.

Additional Information

For more information about this program, please contact the College of Arts and Sciences

Admission Requirements

Same as Drexel admissions requirements

Degree Requirements

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A complete list of eligible Introductory Core Competency courses can be found here.

Program Learning Outcomes