Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry
The BS emphases require a common core of courses, but allows for a different concentration of advanced work according to the interests and career objectives of the student.
- American Chemical Society (ACS) BS Certified Degree Emphases provide excellent preparation for immediate entry into the job market or for graduate school in chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering, molecular biology, nutrition, food science, materials science, and a wide variety of other fields.
► Professional Chemistry Emphasis
► Biochemistry Emphasis
► Environmental Chemistry Emphasis
► Chemical Education is available to students who complete an ACS-certified program, together with the Professional Educaiton program in secondary education.
- BS with Life Science Emphasis degree is popular for students wishing to go on to medical or dental graduate programs. The life science emphasis is particularly appropriate for premedical and predental students who want a strong base for understanding the nature of chemical reactions in the body and the behavior of the drugs they will prescribe, or who want an attractive alternative should they decide ultimately not to pursue medical or dental school.
- Chemistry Teaching Major is available to those who want a career in secondary education.
- Composite Teaching Major in Physical Science is available to those who want a career in secondary education.
Bachelor of Arts Degree in Chemistry
The BA degree requires the common core of courses and is complemented with proficiency in one or more language programs. This degree is an excellent choice for students with an interest in studying law or business and who have an interest in science.
For more information and a complete listing of required courses visit https://goo.gl/2bd7NS.
Bachelor of Science Degree in Biochemistry
The BS in Biochemistry encompasses the study of the properties and functions of biological macromolecules, the mechanisms of action of enzymes, gene and protein regulation and expression, bioenergetics, and the metabolic pathways and processes that use and generate chemical and light energy. At its core, biochemistry recognizes and explains the unifying chemical principles that lie at the heart of the diverse expressions of life.
Additional information and a complete listing of required courses can be found on the major sheet.
Chemistry Minor
A chemistry minor can be accomplished by completing 10 credits of the required Principles of Chemistry Series with labs and 10 credits of chemistry elective courses with a C- or better. A chemistry minor is a background to a number of majors. The minor prepares you for graduate school, enhances many job opportunities, and gives you analytical skills that can benefit you in any career.
Note: Prerequisites are required for enrollment in chemistry courses.
For more information and a complete listing of required courses visit https://goo.gl/KkA5Ud.
Chemistry Teaching Minor
A Chemistry Teaching Minor is only available to students pursuing a Teaching Major at USU. The teaching minor can be accomplished by completing 14-15 credits of required courses and one 3-4 credit elective chemistry course with a C- or better. Students are also required to complete two semesters of the SCED Clinical Experience for Science and two semesters of Teaching Science Methods courses. With a chemistry teaching minor you are ready to start teaching a science course right away in secondary education.
For more information and a complete listing of required courses visit https://goo.gl/QY9hqd.
Degree with Honors
Students who have been admitted to the Honors Program and completed all required paperwork may complete an Honors degree. The Honors notation will appear on student's transcript and diploma.
A full description of USU Honors Program can be found here. There are several ways for Chemistry and Biochemistry majors who have been admitted to the Honors Program to earn Honors Practical Application Points from activities within the department. These include:
- Course contracts in upper division courses (3000-level or above)
- Contracts for research, scholarship, or other projects
- Internship contracts
For details and more information see the departmental honors advisor or consult the University Honors Program Contract and Practical Application Handbook, which can be found on the hours website. For a direct link to USU Honors Program visit http://honors.usu.edu/.
Advising is an essential tool for academic success and timely graduation. Each student should regularly meet with an advisor. Three different types of advising are available in the department. Click on the "Schedule and Appointment" button to get started.
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Undergraduate Scholarships
The following scholarships are offered by the department to chemistry and biochemistry undergraduate majors. Select each scholarship to learn more about application requirements and how to apply:
Garth L. Lee Scholarship
Three awards will be given to departmental chemistry and biochemistry majors who have demonstrated outstanding command of chemical science and have a demonstrated financial need. One award will go to each of the following:
- A freshman transitioning to sophomore
- A sophomore transitioning to junior
- A junior transitioning to senior
Recipients will receive a $2,000 scholarship to be applied toward tuition and fees.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Major in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
- Cumulative GPA of at least 3.5
- Full-time student (at least 12 credits)
Due Date: Applications are open and due by 5:00 pm, March 9 to Erin Russell (erin.russell@usu.edu).
Note: Plan to complete the application in one sitting. Work will not be saved until the form is submitted.
George H. and Billie Bush Emert Scholarship
One award will be given to an outstanding biochemistry major transitioning from the junior to senior year. The recipient will receive a scholarship for one semester of full in-state tuition and fees.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Major in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
- Cumulative GPA of at least 3.5
- Full-time student (at least 12 credits)
Due Date: Applications are open and due by 5:00 pm, March 9 to Erin Russell (erin.russell@usu.edu).
Note: Plan to complete the application in one sitting. Work will not be saved until the form is submitted.
R. Gaurth Hansen Scholarship
One award will be given to an outstanding chemistry major transitioning from the junior to senior year. The recipient will receive a scholarship for one semester of full in-state tuition and fees.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Major in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
- Cumulative GPA of at least 3.5
- Full-time student (at least 12 credits)
Due Date: Applications are open and due by 5:00 pm, March 9 to Erin Russell (erin.russell@usu.edu).
Note: Plan to complete the application in one sitting. Work will not be saved until the form is submitted.
ACS-HACH Land Grant Undergraduate Scholarship
This scholarship is given to a chemistry major with a commitment to become a high school chemistry teacher. The recipient will receive $10,000 per academic year as long as they meet eligibility requirements, for up to six years, until such time as they complete the necessary coursework for the chemistry degree and teachers’ certification.
Recipients must enroll as full-time students and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0. Recipients must sign a yearly agreement committing to becoming a high school chemistry teacher, and a brief annual written statement to the donor describing their career status for the first five years after graduation. Recipients must be citizens of the United States or permanent residents. Economic need will be considered but shall not be the determining factor in selection.
Directions to Apply:
- Complete and sign the application
- Collect the following documents:
- Current official transcript, or transcript from current high school, if not yet graduated
- Two letters of recommendation from appropriate sources (e.g. teachers, mentors, religious leaders, coaches) who can comment on your ability to pursue a career as a high school chemistry teacher. Letters should be submitted in sealed envelopes with the signature of the recommender on the seal.
- An essay (500 words or less) describing why you want to pursue a career as a high school chemistry teacher
- Send the application and all documents in one complete package to:
ACS-HACH Foundation Scholarship Committee
Attn: Erin Russell
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Utah State University
0300 Old Main Hill, 140 Maeser Lab
Logan, UT 84322-0300
Due Date: Applications are open and due by 5:00 pm, March 9 to Erin Russell (erin.russell@usu.edu).
Questions?
Contact the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at chemistry@usu.edu or 435-797-0544.
Working in a Lab
Start EARLY, don't wait until your junior year!
Undergraduate researchers usually start out in a laboratory as laboratory technicians, performing tasks such as washing dishes, autoclaving, and performing library searches. As the students become more comfortable in the lab, duties begin to shift toward procedures such as a novel synthesis, electrophoresis or simple reactions. Once enough technical expertise is achieved, students can move on to a research project. The earlier you start, the sooner you will be ready to tackle you own project.
Undergraduates don't just get experience, many of them get published!
Many of our undergraduates complete enough work to be listed as one of the authors on a research paper--and if you really work hard you could be the first author!
The Bottom Line:
If you are interested DON'T WAIT until your senior year. Check out the research programs of our faculty and the "Labs" tab that lists faculty support undergraduate trainees, and fill out an application to become an undergraduate researcher.
Chem 4800
Chem 4800 is not a normal class, it is an experience. Prior to registering for CHEM 4800, you must have identified a research mentor and discussed a novel research project with them. If you choose a mentor from outside the department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, you will need to receive pre-approval of the project.
Chemistry and Biochemistry
Students taking CHEM 4800 can apply for 1-3 credits toward their upper elective requirements. For each credit of CHEM 4800, > 3 hours per week is expected in to be spent in the lab. At the end of the semester you will be required to write a report in the style of a peer-reviewed research article. Examples of papers from previous students can be found in the department office.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How many hours a week will I need to work?
This completely depends on the professor you will be working with. Don’t worry if you can’t spend 15-20 hours a week in a lab, still apply and see if they will work with you.
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Will I get paid for my work?
Again, this depends on the lab. Research experience is still well worth it, even if you don’t get paid for your time.
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I didn’t get into the lab I wanted, what should I do next?
Sometimes labs don’t have room for all of the students that apply, so you can wait a couple months and email the professor again to see if any openings have come up, or you can find another interesting lab you’d like to be a part of. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get into a lab on your first few tries; that’s pretty normal.
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How can I get help with writing grants, or preparing for presentations?
The Office of Research and Graduate Studies has many great resources and helpful advice on how to create your poster, draft a proposal, prepare for an oral presentation, or even how to write a CV. Also, visit the Science Writing Center to find out more about where you can get one-on-one advice for your writing or your presentation.
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Can my research count for academic credit?
Yes, it can. CHEM 4800 is the class you are looking for. There is a section with more information at the top of this page.
Chemistry Club
Community Service
The Chemistry Club is very involved in the community, especially with local schools. We often visit schools and share with them lessons on chemistry. We provide teaching and demos for kids of all ages. We would love to come and share these lessons with you!
Career Exploration
As part of the Chemistry and Biochemistry Club you will have the opportunity to attend seminars, guest speakers, and fieldtrips. These provided experiences will allow you to explore your career options as you learn more about each career and the job pathways.
Networking
National conventions, departmental seminars, club socials, and student leadership opportunities are just a few of the networking benefits of participating in the Chemistry and Biochemistry Club. You will have the opportunity to network with faculty, students, and professionals.
