Why Major in Chemistry?
Chemistry is often called the "central science" because a strong knowledge of the material world is paramount to advancements in all areas of science. The study of chemistry in our program at Kent State University will involve specialized instruction in each of the five sub-disciplines of chemistry: analytical chemistry, biochemistry, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, and physical chemistry. The benefits for studying and majoring in chemistry include:
- Gaining vital skills in research, critical thinking and writing, and collaborative problem solving which are essential to success in the career marketplace today.
- Research projects available in all areas of chemistry and biochemistry.
- Active chemistry student organizations providing excellent opportunities for social and professional interactions among chemistry majors.
- Opportunities for advanced study offered in graduate courses, as well as M.S. and Ph.D. degree programs.
Major
Chemistry (B.A., B.S.)
B.S. Concentrations
Biochemistry
Biochemistry: Pre-Medicine/Pre-Osteopathy/Pre-Dentistry
Chemistry
Materials Chemistry
What can I do with a Chemistry degree?
Below is a list of potential career paths for students who major in chemistry.
| Analytical Chemist | Medical Doctor |
| Chemical Instrumentation Developer | Patent Law |
| Dentist | Petroleum Research |
| Drug Development and Manufacturing | Pharmaceutical Chemist |
| Chemical Engineering | Pharmacist |
| Environmental Protection | Physician's Assistant |
| Food Researcher | Quality Control & Assurance |
| Forensic Chemistry | Research & Development |
| Formulation Chemist | Research Assistant |
| Industrial Chemist | Synthetic Chemist |
| Materials Scientist | Teaching |
"Focus 2" Major & Career Information
- Create an account in Focus 2 to reveal your best career-fit and explore majors that connect you to your career
Match Majors to Careers
U.S. Department of Labor Websites
- Occupational Outlook Handbook - Learn about occupations including responsibilities, salaries, education required, and employment outlook
- Career One Stop - Explore careers, salary and benefits, training required, and employment seeker services by state
- O*Net - Quick search tool for Ohio employment data and more
Ohio's In-Demand Careers
- In-Demand Careers - Learn about growing fields in the state of Ohio
Talk with Faculty, Family and Professionals
- Find out what a career is really like by speaking to someone in the field. Review the informational interviewing questions to ask and the list of possible people in your network to speak with.
- Talk with your professors who have a wealth of knowledge about their career fields.
- Chat with family members about their work experiences and:
- how they selected their careers
- what they find rewarding/challenging
- what skills they utilize
- what their long-term goals are