Program Overview
The science of chemistry is so intimately woven into the fabric of modern society that a chemistry degree opens many career options. A deep understanding of chemistry is necessary to work in frontier areas of science such as nanotechnology, catalysis, renewable energy, and pharmaceutical design. A degree in chemistry is commonly a prerequisite to advanced study in these areas. Training in chemistry can also serve as preparation for careers in law, medicine, and business.
The American Chemical Society recommends standards for the training of professional chemists. Students interested in a career in chemistry and especially those interested in advanced study are strongly encouraged to pursue the program leading to the Bachelor of Science degree accredited to the American Chemical Society.
Program Requirements
Departmental Honors in Chemistry
In order for students to be considered for admission to the Departmental Honors Program in chemistry, they must meet the general college requirements for admission to such programs. Interested students should consult the department chairperson.
Major Requirements
Bachelor of Science (American Chemical Society Accredited)
1. Chemistry courses:
General Chemistry I and II 121/123, 122/124; Organic Chemistry I and II 201/211, 202/212; Analytical Chemistry 301/311;
Physical Chemistry I and II 351/353W, 352/354;
Foundations of Inorganic Chemistry and Chemical Literature and Information Retrieval 331/361S; Biochemistry 321;
Senior Assessment 900;
Four credits of Independent Study 491-494 or Chemistry Internship 400; and at least one of the following:
(a) Advanced Inorganic Chemistry 332/334; (b) Instrumental Analysis 392; (c) Biochemistry II 322W/324.
2. Supportive coursework in cognate fields:
(a) PHYS 104/114, 105/115 as the Natural Science Foundation requirement
(b) MATH 115 and 201 to complete the B.S. requirement.
Total: 11 courses and 36 credit hours minimum
Bachelor of Science
1. General Chemistry I and II 121/123, 122/124; Senior Assessment 900;
Chemical Literature and Information Retrieval 361S;
Physical Chemistry 351, 353W
2. Six of the following with:
(a) at least three chosen from Organic Chemistry 201, 211; Analytical Chemistry 301, 311; Physical Chemistry 351, 353W; Foundations of Inorganic Chemistry 331; Biochemistry 321 and
(b) the remainder chosen from Organic Chemistry 202, 212; Instrumental Analysis 392; Advanced Inorganic Chemistry 332, 334; Biochemistry 322, 324; at least four credits of Independent Study 491-494 or Chemistry Internship 400
3. Supportive coursework in cognate fields:
(a) PHYS 104/114, 105/115 as the Natural Science Foundation requirement
(b) MATH 115 and 201 to complete the B.S. requirement.
Total: 11 courses and 36 credit hours minimum
Minor Requirements
CHEM 121/123, 122/124, 201/ 211, 202/212, and at least six additional hours in chemistry numbered 300 or above.
Certification to Teach*
The Department of Education at Centenary prepares students to teach Chemistry in secondary schools through an alternative certification program leading to the Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.). Undergraduate students may apply to enroll in M.A.T. coursework a) upon completion of 90 undergraduate credit hours or b) after completion of the baccalaureate degree.