Edited By Barani Krishnan
Review & Contribution By Dr. Mia Roberts
Unlock the mysteries of matter with an Online Chemistry Degree. Gain comprehensive knowledge and practical skills for a dynamic career in the chemical sciences.
Chemistry is a multidisciplinary discipline focused on studying living organisms and their interactions. Pursuing a master’s degree in Chemistry online enables students to delve into advanced topics such as organic chemistry, physical chemistry, analytical chemistry, and instrumental analysis. With this qualification, individuals can pursue diverse career paths in education, forensics, governmental policy, biotechnology, research, and beyond. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, chemists and material scientists earn a median annual salary of approximately $87,180[1]. Whether aspiring to pursue advanced academic programs or immediately entering the workforce, a bachelor’s degree in chemistry lays the foundation for professional growth and success.
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Find the Best Online Chemistry Programs
Many characteristics make up a good-quality bachelor’s program, including appropriate accreditation, an in-depth curriculum, availability of specializations, research facilities, and more. These and other factors must be carefully evaluated to understand which degree best suits your interests and professional objectives. To make finding a top chemistry bachelor’s degree easier, the teams at FBD have evaluated hundreds of colleges and programs and, using a proprietary methodology, prepared a list of schools offering the best online chemistry degrees:
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| Arizona State University | 411 N Central Ave, Phoenix, Arizona 85004 | NA | NA |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from an Online Degree in Chemistry
An online degree in chemistry offers a comprehensive curriculum that is both challenging and engaging for individuals pursuing such programs. Students explore various subjects ranging from mathematics to biology. The program typically comprises around 120 total credits, which can be completed through part-time, full-time, or hybrid learning. The online bachelor’s degree in chemistry emphasizes laboratory work and hands-on experience, even in virtual courses, with some institutions encouraging students to conduct chemical experiments at home using basic ingredients. Courses often cover science and technology, biochemistry, laboratory sciences, organic chemistry, and general chemistry.
Curriculum and Coursework
Students gain fundamental knowledge of organic, analytical, and inorganic chemistry through the bachelor’s in chemistry curriculum. They can expect lectures and lab classes to help them gain skills beneficial for any career path in chemistry and related fields. Most schools provide online and in-person labs, providing individuals with practical experiences.
Students must take core courses at this undergraduate level, including physical and organic chemistry. However, with the guidance of their advisors, students can select coursework that aligns with their interests and desired career paths, including subjects like computer science and advanced mathematics, which are essential for understanding chemical reactions.
The curriculum of the chemistry bachelor’s program delivers a foundational understanding of chemical concepts and principles applicable to addressing current challenges. Students can expect to explore various chemical principles through experimentation with modern instruments and gain hands-on experience with analytical techniques such as infrared or optical spectroscopy, gas chromatography, and more. Throughout the program, students can deepen their understanding of chemistry concepts through standard courses like:
Analytical Chemistry
Analytical chemistry is the science and art of determining what matter is and its composition and structure. This course introduces students to the basic concepts of analytical chemistry. It will help them understand instrumental methods, chromatography, potentiometric methods, and spectrophotometry. The course also explores the evaluation of gravimetric, titrimetric, and data analysis.
Biochemistry
In this course, students study chemical processes relating to various living organisms. They study molecular mechanisms through which the cells can divide, grow, and feed.
Additionally, the course provides an understanding of the evolution of animals and plants and genetic traits carried through successive generations.
Inorganic Chemistry
Inorganic chemistry deals with the behavior and synthesis of organometallic and inorganic compounds. Students comprehend chemical compounds that are not carbon-based and survey the elements of descriptive chemistry. The course explores topics such as structure, bonding, and symmetry.
Organic Chemistry
This course studies carbon-containing compounds’ properties, composition, structure, preparation, and reactions. It explains alkanes, optical activity, stereochemistry, alkenes and alkynes, ring systems, elimination, and substitution reactions.
Instrumental Analysis
Through instrumental analysis, students learn to investigate using scientific instruments to learn about different systems. Study topics include crystallography, electrochemical analysis, nuclear spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, separations, microscopy, and thermal analysis.
Some of the other common courses typically found in the chemistry bachelor’s curriculum include:
- Physical Chemistry
- Magnetism and Electricity
- General Chemistry
- Physical Mechanics
- Elementary Physical Chemistry Laboratory
- Physical Chemistry
- Calculus
- Kitchen Chemistry
- Computer Programming
- Chemistry of Living Systems
- Physical Chemistry
- Earth Science
- Environmental Chemistry
- Chemistry for Teachers
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
A bachelor’s degree in chemistry can provide education tailored for various careers, including roles such as analytical chemist, chemistry teacher, cosmetic scientist, dietary scientist, physician, laboratory analyst, production chemist, and more. This degree can also pave the way for further advanced programs such as master’s and doctorate degrees.
The comprehensive curriculum of this program, which combines lectures and lab courses, will equip individuals with skills beneficial for nearly all career paths they choose. It helps undergraduates develop the ability to:
- carry out scientific studies and experiments which are accurate and precise in their analyses;
- communicate through verbal and written technical presentations and reports to make others understand the results of their experiments and laboratories clearly;
- work collaboratively with interdisciplinary research teams and serve as team leaders on scientific projects;
- use complex mathematical formulas and equations, and demonstrate a broad understanding of math, including algebra, statistics, and calculus;
- document processes carefully to conform to industry procedures and regulations and deal with legal problems, damage to laboratory instruments or equipment, and other chemical spills;
- demonstrate scientific research involving much trial and error, and display exemplary skills to rectify such errors;
- research and develop innovative and improved chemical processes, materials, and products;
- manage time and prioritize efficient tasks while maintaining work quality in both the laboratory and other places.
Types of Degrees Chemistry Students Can Obtain
Those pursuing online chemistry degrees typically gain a solid understanding of chemistry fundamentals through coursework covering organic and inorganic chemistry, instrumental analysis, analytical chemistry, environmental and physical chemistry, and more. The Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS) in Chemistry are two-degree programs that can be completed in four years, each providing a foundation in chemistry. However, the curriculum and experience they offer to students may vary slightly.
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
The Bachelor of Science or B.S. in chemistry prepares students for entering the profession or continuing their academics at the graduate level. Students receive classes, research projects, internships, publishing opportunities, and laboratory experiences. The curriculum helps them focus on chemical substances and their interactions. This program provides all components of technical development required to gain chemistry expertise.
Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry
The Bachelor of Arts or B.A. in chemistry program provides foundational knowledge for various career paths such as environmental science, forensics, teaching, and more. It is typically grounded in physical science components and can be a good option for individuals seeking an additional degree.
Areas of Specialization for Chemistry Students
Specializations are focused areas of study attached to a major, with specific courses apart from their requirement of the major. Specializations increase students’ in-depth knowledge in a particular area of study, helping them become experts in that field. In an undergraduate online degree in chemistry, students would find many concentrations offered, including:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Analytical Chemistry | This concentration emphasizes chemical analysis and its implications for various fields such as drug production, environmental survey and monitoring, medical diagnosis, and more. Students study the application of instruments and learn various methods used to identify, separate, and quantify matter. | Academician, analytical chemist, synthetic chemist, quality control chemist, organic chemist, forensic scientist, pharmacologist, hazardous waste chemist, etc. |
| Biochemistry | This specialization facilitates understanding chemical reactions at the molecular level and explores various applications in the world around us. It provides knowledge of living matter and its application to biological processes at the molecular or cellular levels. | Biomedical expert, forensic scientist, data scientist, ecologist, food or biotechnologist, pharmacologist, etc. |
| Medicinal Chemistry | In this concentration, students delve into various interdisciplinary topics spanning chemistry and pharmacy, focusing on developing and designing pharmaceutical drugs. It involves identifying, comprehending, synthesizing, and creating new chemical entities for therapeutic purposes. | Various roles in the pharmaceutical industry or medicinal chemist. |
| Inorganic Chemistry | In this specialization, students learn about chemical compounds devoid of carbon-hydrogen bonds. It provides an understanding of the properties and reactions of various inorganic compounds and their applications to chemistry in general. | Inorganic chemists in mining, microchip manufacturing, etc. |
| Organic Chemistry | Students explore carbon-containing compounds’ properties, composition, reactions, structure, and synthesis in this concentration. They delve into compounds containing halogens, phosphorus, silicon, sulfur, and oxygen. | Biochemist, biophysicist, geoscientist, material engineer, physicist, natural science manager, etc. |
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
The online chemistry degree typically requires approximately four years for full-time students. Part-time students may need at least five to six years to finish. Various factors, including chosen specialization, semester credit load, transfer credits, and learning mode, can affect program length.
Accelerated Chemistry Programs
Students can expedite the completion of the online chemistry degree in less than four years through accelerated programs. Various strategies enable quicker graduation, including completing extra credits each semester, transferring credits from previous degrees, and pursuing integrated bachelor’s and master’s programs. Accelerated degrees benefit those seeking a swift educational path, entry into the workforce, or career transitions. Many universities, like Drexel University[2] and Illinois Tech[3], offer options for accelerated degree programs.
Requirements for Getting into an Online Chemistry Degree Program
To enroll in an online chemistry bachelor’s degree program, colleges typically mandate prerequisites in math, English, and other science subjects related to chemistry from previous degrees. Applicants failing to meet these prerequisites may need to fulfill them by taking additional credits alongside their regular coursework. While specific requirements vary by institution, common admission criteria for online chemistry degree programs include:
- An application form with the prescribed fee
- A high school diploma or GED
- Previous official transcripts from high school or college-level
- A cumulative grade point average of 3.0 (typical)
- ACT or SAT scores
- A Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose
- A Personal Essay (a requirement at some universities)
- PSAT scores (a requirement at some universities)
How to Ensure an Online Chemistry Program Is Accredited
Accreditation is a crucial aspect of a college degree, ensuring the quality of education offered by the institution to students and potential employers. The American Chemical Society (ACS)[4] significantly promotes quality chemistry education at the undergraduate level by accrediting bachelor’s chemistry programs. ACS-approved programs guarantee a robust chemistry education, equipping students with essential experimental, communication, and intellectual skills necessary for professional success. Additionally, some colleges offer programs accredited by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB)[5]. ASBMB accreditation serves as an independent, outcome-based evaluation mechanism at the national level, recognizing excellence in B.A. or B.S. degree programs in molecular biology, biochemistry, and related disciplines.
Students can verify their university and program’s accreditation status using national-level databases such as the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)[6] and the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs[7]. These databases provide comprehensive information regarding accreditation by agencies like the:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
To understand more about accreditation, read the guide to college accreditation.
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Chemistry Bachelor’s Students
Free courses offer invaluable opportunities to expand upon existing knowledge in a subject. They provide additional support beyond the regular curriculum and access to supplementary material that enriches classroom learning. Free chemistry courses can enhance understanding of key topics and introduce students to new areas of interest. Examples include:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Chemistry[8] | In this course, students delve into molecular compounds, exploring their bonding by examining Lewis Structures. The curriculum encompasses topics such as thermochemistry, guiding students through various quantitative relationships essential for determining balanced chemical equations. | Coursera |
| Basic Analytical Chemistry[9] | This course provides a fundamental background in chemical principles, especially analytical chemistry. It increases the student’s knowledge about judging experimental data’s precision and accuracy by understanding basic analytical methods tools like experimental error, chemical equilibrium, and more. | edX |
| Principles of Chemical Science[10] | This course can enhance students’ understanding of thermochemistry, molecular orbital theory, polar covalent bonds, valence bond theory, hybridization, and other foundational topics that complement their standard curriculum. Additionally, it includes exams that allow students to assess their comprehension of key concepts. | MIT OpenCourseWare |
Ways to Pay for an Online Chemistry Degree
Funding a college education can be an expensive pursuit. Leveraging various financial aids, which do not rely on personal savings, earned income, or family funds, can cover educational expenses such as housing and board, tuition and fees, transportation, library resources, and more. Some of these aids available for those pursuing an online degree in chemistry include:
Scholarships
Scholarships offer financial aid for students to pursue higher education, rewarding academic excellence, leadership, or specific talents. They alleviate the burden of tuition fees, enabling access to education for deserving individuals. Scholarships promote diversity, innovation, and societal progress by empowering students to reach their full potential regardless of economic background.
Grants
Like scholarships, grants are monetary awards given to students, primarily based on financial need rather than merit. Grant money does not need to be repaid, provided the recipient adheres to the terms specified by the grant.
FAFSA
FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, is a crucial form of college financial aid in the United States. It assesses eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study programs based on income and need.
Private Student Loans
Banks and other financial institutions provide student loans. They are frequently opted for by those who may not qualify for any other federal aid. Loans attract interest and will therefore increase the cost of education.
Federal Work-Study
Federal Work-Study (FWS) is a U.S. government program providing part-time jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay for educational expenses. Jobs are often on-campus or with approved off-campus employers, emphasizing community service and academic relevance.
Explore the financial aid guide to uncover the best ways to finance college expenses.
Scholarships for Online Chemistry Degree Students
Scholarships for online chemistry degree students offer financial support, recognizing academic excellence, leadership, or passion for the field. These scholarships ease the financial burden of tuition, textbooks, and other expenses associated with online education. They empower students to focus on their studies, excel academically, and contribute to advancements in chemistry. Here are some scholarships for bachelor’s in chemistry:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scholars Program[11] | This scholarship is provided to undergraduate students from underrepresented groups studying chemical sciences, majoring in chemistry or related disciplines, and intending to pursue careers related to chemistry. | $5,000 | March annually |
| Banatao Family Filipino American Education Fund[12] | This fund awards scholarships of around $5,000 to first-year students newly enrolling in four-year universities and colleges. Each scholarship depends on the meritorious academic performance of full-time undergraduate students. | $20,000 | January annually |
| Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship[13] | This scholarship program provides successful undergraduate candidates with awards that include academic assistance of up to an average of $9,500 annually for full-time study of two years. It also provides a 10-week, full-time paid internship at a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration facility during the summer term. | $19,000 | January annually |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating With an Online Chemistry Degree
After graduating with a bachelor’s in chemistry, career opportunities span diverse sectors such as research, healthcare, and technology. Salaries vary based on experience and location, but graduates often enjoy competitive compensation packages reflective of their analytical skills and scientific knowledge, facilitating upward career mobility. Some career pathways available to graduates with a bachelor’s in chemistry include:
| Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2032) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Technicians[14] | Analytical skills, communication skills, detail-oriented, interpersonal skills | $56,760 | 3% (as fast as average) | Chemical technicians set up, maintain, and operate the instruments and equipment in the laboratory. They are also entrusted with maintaining the production equipment and troubleshooting problems. They prepare and present graphs, charts, and other reports to summarize the results they find. |
| Chemists and Materials Scientists[1] | Analytical skills, communication skills, interpersonal skills, math skills, organizational skills, time-management skills, problem-solving skills, perseverance | $87,180 | 6% (faster than average) | Chemists use their knowledge to develop new products, improve existing outcomes, and test manufacturing quality. They plan and conduct research projects and instruct scientists and other professionals about proper testing procedures and chemical processing. |
| Environmental Scientists and Specialists[15] | Analytical skills, communication skills, problem-solving skills, interpersonal skills, self-discipline | $78,980 | 6% (faster than average) | Environmental scientists and specialists use their understanding of natural sciences to protect human health and the environment. They clean up polluted areas, work with relevant industries to reduce waste and advise policymakers. |
| Forensic Science Technicians[16] | Communication skills, detail-oriented, critical-thinking skills, math skills, problem-solving skills | $64,940 | 11% (much faster than average) | Forensic science technicians aid criminal investigations by analyzing and collecting evidence. They specialize in either laboratory analysis or crime scene investigation. They also explore crime scenes to understand what evidence needs to be collected and record their observations. |
| Natural Science Managers[17] | Time-management skills, problem-solving skills, leadership skills, interpersonal skills, critical thinking, communication skills | $137,900 | 6% (as fast as average) | Natural science managers generally supervise the work of scientists, including biologists, chemists, and physicists. They also direct activities related to development and research and coordinate tasks like quality control, production, and testing. |
Certifications and Licensing for Online Bachelor’s Students in Chemistry
Professional certifications help employees and professionals prove they possess unique skills and knowledge in the relevant discipline. Some occupations require candidates to have one or more professional certifications as a mandatory requirement.
In addition to acquiring a chemistry degree online, obtaining professional certification will enhance individuals’ expertise and distinguish them from competitors. Some certifications that chemistry degree students can pursue include:
GMP Laboratory Control Certification[18]
This certification program aims to provide the essential tools and principles that will help individuals become experts in working in laboratories. It is valuable for all those working at laboratories at various levels or researching and developing new products, testing, and controlling commercial drug products released in the market.
Clinical Chemistry[19]
This certification helps candidates showcase their knowledge of analytical methodology and instrumentation understanding of chemistry. They will gain expertise in general biochemistry, including solution preparations, electrophoresis, and enzyme kinetics. After completing this certification, individuals can demonstrate skills in quality control and statistics related to testing, clinical lab, and diseases.
Toxicological Chemistry[20]
Professionals can pursue this certification to demonstrate their mastery and knowledge of analytical methods, physiology, management, and pathophysiology. Individuals grasp the characteristics, principles, and limitations of technologies and instrumentation applicable to monitoring therapeutic drugs or clinical or forensic toxicology.
In chemistry, licensure or certification is generally not required in most cases.
Additional Resources for Bachelor’s Students in Chemistry Degree
Tapping into resources from various establishments can improve an individual’s knowledge and understanding of chemistry. Often, these resources go beyond what a bachelor’s degree in chemistry online has to offer, including seminars, journals, news, career assistance, etc. Here are some to explore:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| The American Institute of Chemists (AIC) | The AIC sets and maintains the standards of practice for professionals in chemistry. They encourage the best possible use of technology and science for the betterment of the community, nation, and world. |
| American Association for Clinical Chemistry (AACC) | The AACC develops and implements lab instrument tests used mainly in different areas of healthcare. The organization also holds one of the largest scientific conferences annually: the AACC Annual Scientific Meeting and Clinical Lab Expo. |
| American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) | The ASBMB has over 12,000 members and supports the research and careers of molecular biologists and biochemists. Members have access to funding opportunities, career development resources, publications, and training provided by experts in the field. |
| International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) | The IUPAC develops and maintains recommendations based on creating a standard language for the worldwide community in chemistry. They make scientific work through project systems in which proposals from chemists worldwide are peer-reviewed, and the worthy amongst them are supported. |
| American Chemical Society (ACS) | The ACS promotes development and innovation to advance the profession of chemistry. They look for ideas that can have a society-wide impact and further the strategic goals that can cultivate an inclusive, equitable, and diverse community of chemistry experts. |
FAQs About Online Chemistry Degree Programs
What does a chemistry degree teach students?
A chemistry degree equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles governing matter and its interactions. Through coursework and laboratory experiences, students develop analysis, problem-solving, and experimentation skills, enabling them to explore various scientific phenomena, innovate, and contribute to advancements in diverse fields such as healthcare, materials science, and environmental protection.
Are chemistry graduates in high demand?
Does a chemistry degree provide any practical experience?
Is an online program in chemistry at an undergraduate level common?
What can you do with a chemistry degree?
Is an online chemistry degree worth it?
Citations:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Chemists and Material Scientists
American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Council for Higher Education Accreditation
Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs
edx-Basic Analytical Chemistry
MIT Open Course Ware-Principles of Chemical Science
Banatao Family Filipino American Education Fund
Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Chemical Technicians
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Environmental Scientists and Specialists
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Forensic science technicians
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Natural Science Managers