Chemistry
Welcome to our Chemistry Program, where a world of discovery awaits students with diverse interests and career goals in the physical sciences. Our program offers both Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degrees, alongside a comprehensive minor in Chemistry. Tailored to cultivate a deep understanding across a wide spectrum of chemical knowledge, our curriculum covers inorganic, organic, analytical, and biochemistry, supported by essential physics and mathematics. Ideal for those eyeing advanced studies or careers in health-related fields, our program promises a robust foundation, hands-on research opportunities, and a pathway to a promising future in the chemical sciences. Join us to build your scientific expertise and pioneer in the realm of chemistry.
Program Overview
Pre-Professional Tracks
If you're thinking about going to medical school, you'll need to plan your courses carefully to make sure you meet all the requirements. Most medical schools want to see that you've taken certain classes in biology, chemistry, English, math, and physics. It's a good idea to complete your bachelor's degree with a major and minor that you're interested in. Usually, students take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) in the spring of their junior year and start applying to medical schools that summer.
If you're not majoring in a science subject but still want to go to medical school, it's important to have two advisors: one for your major and one for pre-med to guide you through the process. Here's a quick list of the classes you'll typically need for medical school admission:
- Biology: BIO 111-112 (two semesters)
- Chemistry: CHE 111-112 and 211-212 (four semesters total)
- English: ENG 101-102 (two semesters)
- Mathematics: MAT 131-132 or six hours of higher-level math electives (two semesters)
- Physics: PHY 101-102 or 211-212 (two semesters)
- Advanced Science Electives: 8 hours (with lab work)
- General Electives: 37 hours of approved courses
These courses will not only help you get into medical school but will also give you a strong foundation in the sciences. Make sure to talk to your advisors to keep on track and choose the best courses for your goals!
Thinking about a career in dentistry? Getting into dental school requires careful planning and taking specific courses during your undergraduate studies. Dental schools look for applicants who have a strong background in various subjects including behavioral sciences, biology, chemistry, English, math, and physics. It’s recommended to complete your bachelor's degree with a major and minor that interest you. Students usually take the Dental Admission Test (DAT), administered by the American Dental Association, in their junior year's spring and start applying to dental schools in the following summer.
For those whose major isn't in the sciences, having an academic advisor as well as a pre-dental advisor is crucial to navigate through your pre-dental journey. Here's a breakdown of the courses you'll need:
- Behavioral Sciences: 6 hours (e.g., PSY 201, SOC 101)
- Biology: BIO 111-112 (two semesters)
- Chemistry: CHE 111-112 and 211-212 (four semesters total)
- English: ENG 101-102 and another 200-level English course (four semesters total)
- Mathematics: MAT 131-132 or six hours of higher-level math electives (two semesters)
- Physics: PHY 101-102 or 211-212 (two semesters)
- Advanced Biology or Chemistry: 4 hours (with lab work)
- General Electives: 29 hours of approved courses
These courses aim to equip you with a solid scientific foundation and ensure you're well-prepared for the DAT and dental school challenges. Be sure to regularly consult with your advisors to make sure you're on the right track toward achieving your dental career goals!
Interested in pursuing a career in physical therapy? Preparing for a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program means planning your undergraduate course work carefully to meet specific requirements. These programs typically look for a solid foundation in behavioral sciences, biology, chemistry, English, mathematics, and physics. Completing your bachelor's degree in a major and minor you're passionate about is a great start. Most students take the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) in the spring or summer of their junior year and begin applying to physical therapy schools in the fall.
If your major isn't directly in the sciences, it's essential to work with both an academic advisor and a pre-physical therapy advisor to navigate your preparation effectively. Beyond your major's core and educational requirements, here’s a list of courses generally required for physical therapy school admission:
- Biology: BIO 234-235 (Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II)
- Chemistry: CHE 111-112 (General Chemistry I and II)
- Physics: PHY 101-102 (General Physics I and II)
- Mathematics: Choose between MAT 270 (Statistics) or PSY 351 (Psychological Statistics)
- Recommended Psychology Courses: PSY 201 (Introduction to Psychology), PSY 305 (Abnormal Psychology), and PSY 410 (Developmental Psychology)
These courses are designed to build a strong foundational knowledge base necessary for succeeding in physical therapy programs. Additionally, the recommended psychology courses will enrich your understanding of human behavior and development, crucial aspects of physical therapy. Remember to stay in close contact with your advisors to ensure you're meeting all the prerequisites, and make sure to check out the William Carey University Physical Therapy page.
Hours
Completing the Chemistry major entails a commitment of 120 semester hours, encompassing a broad spectrum of coursework from foundational to advanced levels in chemistry, supplemented by relevant studies in biology, physics, and mathematics. The major is designed to be completed typically in four years of full-time study, offering both Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) tracks to suit diverse academic and professional goals. For those interested in a more focused study, our Chemistry minor requires 21 semester hours, providing a solid introduction to the field. The length and structure of our programs are thoughtfully designed to ensure that students not only acquire the necessary knowledge and skills but also have the opportunity to engage in meaningful research and professional development activities.
Applicant Prerequisites & Requirements
Prospective students must:
Meet all undergraduate admissions requirements of the University
Complete an online application
Submit official transcripts via eScript or mailed from the institution
Career Outlooks
Graduates from our Chemistry program embark on a journey filled with diverse and promising career opportunities. With a solid grounding in chemical principles and practical research experience, our alumni are well-equipped for success in various sectors. Career paths include but are not limited to research and development in pharmaceuticals, environmental science, and materials science, positions in chemical and biochemical analysis, roles in government and policy-making related to public health and safety, and further academic pursuits in graduate or professional schools for medicine, dentistry, physical therapy, and pharmacy. Our comprehensive curriculum and hands-on research experience prepare students not only to meet the demands of their chosen careers but also to excel and innovate in their fields.
Find Your Calling
Embark on a journey to discover your passion and purpose at William Carey University. Here, education goes beyond textbooks, blending innovation, faith, and learning to prepare you for not just a career, but a calling.
Hattiesburg
710 William Carey Parkway | Hattiesburg, MS 39401
chemistry@wmcarey.edu | (601) 318 - 6083