group of students concentrate on chemistry experiment

Chemistry Major

Earn a bachelor's degree in chemistry

A chemistry degree from Southwest Baptist University will give you a solid foundation for a wide variety of science careers in fields such as in general chemistry, biochemistry or forensic science, or in health-related careers such as in pharmacy, medicine or in becoming a physician's assistant.

As a chemistry major at SBU, you will earn a chemistry degree under the direction of expert faculty and by engaging in intriguing and stimulating classroom and laboratory experiences. You will receive one-on-one advising to help you pursue your personal and professional goals.

The chemistry degree is offered through SBU's College of Arts and Sciences.

The SBU Advantage

Work alongside expert faculty to do research while still an undergraduate student through SBU's Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) program.
One-on-one academic advisement by a faculty member will set you up for success as they guide you through making an academic plan that will help you achieve your goals.
Small lecture and lab class sizes allow for more hands-on learning opportunities and closer interactions with faculty and other students.

Faith Integration

SBU is home to the Darrell R. Strait Center for the Integration of Science and Christian Faith, which is intentionally focused on equipping students to study the history and philosophy of science, Biblical hermeneutics, and the integration of science and faith. Faculty encourage discussion of ethical issues that arise in the world of science and challenge students to use their Christian faith as the basis for approaching all issues. SBU believes strongly that science and Christian faith can be integrated and support each other.

As a chemistry major, you will take a course from the Strait Center — Chemistry Through the Eyes of Faith. You will have the option to add a second major in Integration of Science and Christian Faith by taking the other Strait Center courses including: Methods of Biblical Interpretation, Philosophical Foundations for a Christian Worldview, and History and Philosophy of Science and Technology.

Careers in Chemistry

Chemistry graduates have pursued a variety of careers working at places such as:

Eutical
Mallinckrodt
Sigma-Aldrich
U.S. Air Force
Brewer Science

Graduate Schools

Most SBU students with a chemistry degree continue their education in various disciplines such as biochemistry, chemistry, forensic science, medicine or statistics at institutions including:

Iowa State University
Purdue University
St. Louis University
University of Central Florida
University of Tennessee
Vanderbilt University
Wake Forest University

"The academics at SBU established the background in chemistry I need to be a successful forensic scientist. More than that, at SBU you receive an individualized education. Professors are readily available and students aren't just a number."

Serena Baird '11

Group Lead Forensic Scientist at Quest Diagnostics

Pre-Health Society

Pre-Health Society is an open club for students who are interested in pursuing a career in a health-related field. The club meets once a month for group meetings, planning service events and hearing from guest speakers from various health fields. The club is a mix of under and upperclassmen, giving younger students the chance to meet peers and mentors who can encourage them in their chosen fields and through the challenges of pursuing a health-related career.

Scholarships

SBU chemistry students have the opportunity to apply for several privately funded scholarships including:

Bill Little Chemistry Scholarship
Friends of the College of Science and Mathematics Scholarship
James Lightfoot Scholarship
Marie Colvin Scholarship
Smith-Glynn-Callaway Medical Foundation Scholarship

Chemistry Four Year Plan

Discover Core Curriculum