College of the Sciences
Chemistry
Bachelor of Science | Major
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
In our BS in Chemistry, learn the fundamental principles and practical applications of chemistry.
Build a strong foundation in core topics such as analytical, organic, physical, and inorganic chemistry, as well as related areas like biochemistry and environmental chemistry. Our program emphasizes laboratory experience, which can include undergraduate research or internships with local companies, allowing the gained knowledge and skills to be applied in research and commercial applications.
Questions? Contact Us.
Chemistry
Science Building, Room 302
At the Center of a Better Future
What You'll Study
Academic Catalog | Chemistry Website
Chemistry BS Core
General Chemistry and Laboratory
- CHEM 181 - General Chemistry I
- CHEM 181LAB - General Chemistry Laboratory I
- CHEM 182 - General Chemistry II
- CHEM 182LAB - General Chemistry Laboratory II
- CHEM 183 - General Chemistry III
- CHEM 183LAB - General Chemistry Laboratory III
- CHEM 193LAB - General Chemistry III Honors Laboratory
Organic Chemistry
- CHEM 361 - Organic Chemistry I
- CHEM 361LAB - Organic Chemistry Laboratory I
- CHEM 362 - Organic Chemistry II
- CHEM 363 - Organic Chemistry III
- CHEM 363LAB - Organic Chemistry Laboratory II
Additional Courses
Quantitative Analysis
- CHEM 332 - Quantitative Analysis
- CHEM 332LAB - Quantitative Analysis Laboratory
Upper-Division Chemistry
- CHEM 350 - Inorganic Chemistry
- CHEM 431 - Biochemistry I
- CHEM 431LAB - Biochemistry Laboratory
- CHEM 452 - Instrumental Analysis Lecture
- CHEM 452LAB - Instrumental Analysis Laboratory
- CHEM 488 - Colloquium
Physical Chemistry
- CHEM 381 - Physical Chemistry (Thermodynamics)
- CHEM 382 - Physical Chemistry (Quantum Chemistry) II
- CHEM 382LAB - Integrated Physical/Inorganic Laboratory I
- CHEM 383 - Physical Chemistry (Quantum, Statistical Mechanics) III
- CHEM 383LAB - Integrated Physical/Inorganic Laboratory II
Introductory, Life Sciences, or General Physics
- PHYS 111 - Introductory Physics I with Laboratory
- PHYS 121 - Introductory Physics for Life Sciences I
- PHYS 181 - General Physics I with Laboratory
- PHYS 112 - Introductory Physics II with Laboratory
- PHYS 122 - Introductory Physics for Life Sciences II
- PHYS 182 - General Physics II with Laboratory
- PHYS 113 - Introductory Physics III with Laboratory
- PHYS 123 - Introductory Physics for Life Sciences III
- PHYS 183 - General Physics III with Laboratory
Calculus
- MATH 172 - Calculus I
- MATH 173 - Calculus II
- MATH 272 - Multivariable Calculus I
Department-Approved Electives
Advanced Instrumentation
At CWU, you’ll receive hands-on instruction with advanced instrumentation, including ultraviolet-visible and infrared spectrometers, nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometers, and gel electrophoresis for proteins and DNA.
Chemistry Club
Explore your interests in chemistry through the Chemistry Club at CWU. Meet up with like-minded students and participate in community events, outreach, and networking!
American Chemical Society
If nine department-approved electives come from a designated set of upper-division courses within chemistry, your BS will be certified by the American Chemical Society.
Physical Chemistry- Thermodynamics
Use equations of state, internal energy, entropy, Gibbs and Helmholtz energies, and phase diagrams to solve thermodynamic problems, deepening your understanding of the physical world in this class!
Apply
Discover how to apply to your program of choice at Central.
Financial Aid
Our Financial Aid staff are here to help you navigate financial aid.
Student Life
Pursue your interests in a supportive community. Learn more.
Visit
The best way to discover what makes CWU so special is to experience it yourself.
Lab Work
The chemistry labs at CWU provide a hands-on environment for experiments and collaboration, enhancing your practical skills in the chemical sciences.
Scholarship Opportunities
The Chemistry Department holds three department-specific scholarships that you can apply for to better support our education.
Specialized Skills
Specialize in various fields, including biochemistry, inorganic, organic, analytical, physical, and environmental chemistry, as well as chemistry education.
Why Study Chemistry at Central?
- The faculty in the Chemistry Department at CWU is dedicated to guiding students toward excellence in the chemical sciences
- With a diverse range of programs, the department tailors educational experiences to meet each student’s unique interests
- Students can collaborate closely with faculty members on engaging undergraduate research projects
- There are exciting opportunities for students to take on roles as teaching assistants and tutors, enhancing their learning experience.
Alumni Success
3M
Eli Lilly
Fremont Analytical
HP
Johns Hopkins University
SnowLake
WA State Patrol
Inpria
Blue Origin
Merck