High-Demand Chemistry Careers
- Chemist
- Chemical Engineer
- Toxicologist
- Forensic Scientist
- Pharmacologist
- Materials Scientist
Chemistry BA, BS
Our Chemistry bachelor's degrees hold the formula for a rewarding career.
With chemists in high demand–get started in RIC's Chemistry Program.
Our program builds a comprehensive foundation in all areas of the discipline, offering multiple degree and concentration options. With 7,800 job openings projected each year over the next decade, chemistry is a crucial area of need in a variety of industries. Make a smart choice with a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from RIC.
Why Earn a Chemistry Bachelor's Degree at Rhode Island College?
- Choose from our more general and versatile Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry or the more specialized Bachelor of Science.
- Our Chemistry majors may choose for a concentration in biochemistry or professional chemistry.
- We offer an American Chemical Society certified program that provides hands-on opportunities and faculty-directed research in professional labs.
- Topics covered include: organic chemistry, biochemistry, methods of analysis, physical chemistry, biology and calculus.
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We're thrilled that you're interested in Rhode Island College and we want to make sure that nothing stands in your way of pursuing a RIC degree. Just let us know how we can help you with your next steps.
More Program Specifics
Understand the courses you’ll take, the curriculum requirements to meet, and the concepts you’ll gain mastery of. This program also offers 2 concentrations and a minor program option. Get the detailed information you’re looking for.
Clarke Science, home of our chemistry program, just underwent a $60 million renovation. The modern research and teaching workspace now houses 10 teaching labs, 4 research labs, an instrument room, 2 lecture halls, 2 traditional classrooms, and faculty offices.
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Our beautiful 180-acre campus is just 40 minutes from the beach, 1 hour from Boston & 3 hours from NYC.
Physical Sciences Faculty
Dr. Karen H. Almeida
- Professor
Dr. Andrea L. Del Vecchio
- Professor
Dr. Elizabeth Kiesewetter
- Associate Professor
Dr. Sarah Weinstein Knowlton
- Professor
Dr. Marc C. Lamontagne
- Professor
Dr. Chin Hin Leung
- Associate Professor
Dr. Emily McEachern
- Assistant Professor
Dr. Medini Padmanabhan
- Professor
Dr. Steven B. Rivers
- Professor
Dr. Daniel P. Snowman
- Professor
Dr. Jamie B. Towle-Weicksel
- Professor
Dr. Benjamin Young
- Associate Professor
Hear from a Student
Garrett Walsh
“Dr. Knowlton is by far one of the most important influences in my life. I owe her a lot. In fact, I owe the entire department a lot. They were all fantastic teachers. I never expected to be so much further ahead in grad school compared to my peers, yet there I was sitting in class thinking, ‘I know this material already.’ I already learned it at RIC.”
– Chemistry Major
Collaboration and Research with Faculty
You don't have to be a total science geek to appreciate what goes on in the Department of Physical Sciences at Rhode Island College.
Program Details
Degree and Concentration Options
In your degree plan, you will choose between a BA in chemistry or BS in chemistry.
Chemistry BA
The Chemistry Bachelor of Arts degree program is less specialized and more versatile than the BS program and includes more electives. You may consider courses in management, biology, physics and computer science. Many BA majors choose to minor in biology, math or physics in preparation for careers in chemistry and other technology and biotechnology industries. When combined with biology electives, this program is an ideal basic preparation for careers in medicine, dentistry or environmental science. Although it is not required, some independent study or other research participation is highly recommended, and many faculty research projects are open to student participation within the department.
Chemistry BS
The Chemistry Bachelor of Science degree program offers two American Chemical Society (ACS)-certified concentrations: Biochemistry and Professional Chemistry. These concentrations require at least 3 credits of research with a faculty member in the department.
Chemistry BS with Biochemistry Concentration
The ACS-certified BS in chemistry with biochemistry concentration provides a solid foundation in the five areas of chemistry (organic, inorganic, analytical, physical and biochemistry), while providing hands-on biochemistry laboratory experience. This concentration requires you to complete an intensive 3 credit hour laboratory course as well as 3 credit hours of independent study (research). Several faculty research projects are currently underway for you to choose from. You may also choose to complete an honors thesis. Electives in computer science, mathematics and physics are recommended.
Chemistry BS with Professional Chemistry Concentration
The ACS-certified BS in chemistry with professional chemistry concentration will prepare you for careers in industry, government or academia. This degree is also excellent preparation for entrance into a PHD program. At least 3 credit hours of independent study (research) is required. Several faculty research projects are currently underway for you to choose from. You may also choose to complete an honors thesis. Electives in biology, computer science and physics are highly recommended.
Program/Learning Goals
Upon completion of this program, students will be able to demonstrate:
- Field knowledge: A thorough knowledge, both descriptive and quantitative, of the principles and methods of the field, including an understanding of the questions addressed by the discipline, an appreciation for the historical development of the field and an understanding of the limitations inherent in its study.
- Problem-solving skills: The ability to interpret and solve theoretical and applied problems using established or new techniques.
- Lab skills: The acquisition of a complete set of laboratory skills, including the ability to collect and analyze data using a variety of instrumental and computational techniques, the ability to understand the applicability of each technique to a particular problem and the ability to work cooperatively with their peers.
- Research skills: The ability to plan and carry out research using proper methods, including the use of scientific literature to obtain information.
- Communication skills: The ability to clearly and correctly communicate scientific results and concepts in both spoken and written form.
- Safety skills: The ability to use proper safety measures, to recognize and avoid hazards and to recognize, handle and properly dispose of hazardous materials.
- Ethics: Understand the ethical responsibilities of a physicist/chemist, including the importance of honesty in all scientific endeavors and the consideration of the social and environmental ramifications of their field.
Minor in Chemistry
Declaring a minor allows you to explore other areas of interest and make interdisciplinary connections. Minor areas at RIC complement and reinforce all major areas of study. By declaring a minor, you can set yourself apart as a candidate for job, internship and volunteer opportunities.
Take the Next Step!
Department of Physical Sciences
The Department of Physical Sciences covers the four main branches of physical science: physics, chemistry, Earth science and space science.
- phone401-456-8049
- placeClarke Science, 1st Fl. Office Suite, 421 Library Rd, No. Providence, RI 02908