Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
Holistic Learning
The Department of Chemistry at HPU believes that new knowledge in the chemical sciences is only generated in the laboratory through research. Top programs of undergraduate education in chemistry utilize undergraduate research as the vehicle for the preparation of chemistry majors who not only attend highly competitive graduate and professional programs, but also are sought by these programs. The expectation is that the majority of graduates with this degree will attend graduate school in the chemical sciences or closely-aligned fields.
Why should I major in chemistry at HPU?
- Chemistry majors will be relied upon to resolve many problems of the world such as green energy, eco-friendly food production, waste management and recycling.
- Chemists are responsible for many of the life-saving drugs currently available.
- Chemistry connects physical, life and applied sciences thus preparing you for a variety of career paths. Often considered a gateway science, chemistry is essential for understanding biology, geology, physics and astrophysics.
- Chemistry as an undergraduate major allows you to explore many research projects before confirming your thesis or graduate school path.
Experiential Learning
All chemistry and biochemistry majors are strongly encouraged to apply for undergraduate research programs or internships. High Point University students have most recently presented research at the National ACS Meeting, SERMACS and the Big South Undergraduate Research Symposium. Students have also participated in the esteemed National Science Foundation sponsored Research Experiences for Undergraduate Summer Internships (NSF-REU).
Innovative Study
Breakthroughs in the field of biochemistry have energized and revolutionized the fields of medicine and biotechnology and have transformed the study of biology and chemistry over the past 30 years. The study of biochemistry requires a student to be well-versed in a variety of disciplines, including math, physics, biology and chemistry. While the curriculum prescribes a demanding level of rigor and breadth, it also affords students the opportunity to tailor their choice of upper-level courses in biology according to their specific interests.
Career Opportunities
Students in the chemistry and biochemistry programs at High Point University have gone on to many wonderful careers after college. The interdisciplinary nature of the subject has led to outcomes as diverse as criminology to prenatal screening, agriculture to cosmetics, and home healthcare diagnostics to tailored drug therapies. The number of jobs for chemists is 96,200. Median pay for all occupations is $34,750. Median pay for chemists is $73,060. Students with degrees in chemistry or biochemistry currently have careers as/in:
- Chemical Engineers
- Crystallography
- Industrial Management
- Laboratory Management
- Pharmaceutical Sales
- Public Health Consultant
- Chemical Health and Safety Manager
- Toxicologist
- Hazardous Waste Management
- Regulatory Affairs
- Human Resources
- Forensic Chemist
- University Instructor
- High School Chemistry Teacher
https://www.highpoint.edu/chemistry/