In addition to having the region’s most affordable tuition, we offer thousands of dollars in scholarships every year. Learn more about scholarships and aid as you pursue a Chemistry degree.
Chemistry Degree
About the Chemistry Degree
Chemistry is the study of matter – its composition, structure, properties, and changes in state. Our faculty are dedicated to ensuring your education is one of discovery, and our program gives you an understanding of the chemical world in which we live. It’s a great field to enter because it connects and helps you understand other sciences such as physics, biology, and geology. With a Chemistry degree from Wayne State College, you will be ready for graduate work or a variety of career opportunities. You can use your Chemistry degree to enter the health professions such as medicine and pharmacy. Or you could become a product developer, creating things such as perfume, makeup, or cleaning solutions.
Percent of recent WSC graduates employed or in graduate school
based on the most recent graduate survey
Fast Facts
Degrees offered: B.A. or B.S. in Chemistry / Chemical Sciences
Hours required:
For chemical sciences program: 55
General education: 30
To graduate from WSC: 120
Popular minors: Mathematics, Physics, Biology, Earth Science, Criminal Justice
School: Science, Health, and Criminal Justice
Department: Physical Sciences and Mathematics
Research: Individualized research experience designed for your interest
Nationally Ranked Program
Top 10% of all U.S. Colleges
Most Focused Chemistry Degree Program, 2019
College Factual
Most Focused Chemistry Degree Program, 2019
Top 10% of all U.S. Colleges
College Factual
In a recent ranking of the best chemistry degree programs by College Factual, Wayne State College earned #79 of all colleges in the U.S., placing us in the top 10% nationwide for 2019. Three metrics measure how College Factual determines which colleges are the "Most Focused."
- Percentage of students studying a particular major - the higher the better. This is a signal from students at the college that they recognize the strength of the program, and also stands to reason that more resources are dedicated to departments with more students.
- Market share - We take it as a positive signal if a college is attracting a lot of students to a particular major. This usually means that a college has more income from tuition to further invest in the program.
- Post graduate resources - If a college has significant graduate and doctoral level programs, that indicates they are even more focused on a particular major. This can mean more resources available to all students.
College Factual, located in Troy, New York, is a leading source of college data analytics and insights, with a strong focus on student outcomes. Its mission is to help all types of students discover their best-fit college and major so they can enjoy their college experience and graduate with less debt. College Factual provides coverage for over 2,500 colleges and universities, 350 college majors, for students in over 160 countries.
Recognized for Excellence
Best Colleges of Distinction, 2022-23
Colleges of Distinction
Best Colleges of Distinction, 2022-23
Recognized for Excellence
Colleges of Distinction
Wayne State College has been named as a College of Distinction. Colleges of Distinction honors and recognizes the hundreds of smaller, teaching-centered colleges that make up the fabric of the American educational system, schools that deliver well four overarching distinctions — Engagement, Teaching, Community, and Outcomes — which are the fundamental elements of an effective undergraduate education.
To be designated a “college of distinction,” a school’s curriculum must emphasize such core competencies as critical thinking, writing, oral skills, research, and global perspectives. They must also offer dynamic out-of-classroom learning and study abroad programs. The process is objective, in-depth, and qualitative; however, quantitative data such as class-size statistics, faculty-to-student ratio, plus retention and four-year graduation rates are also taken into account.
Our Focus is Results
Wayne State has the keys to your success and offers just what you need to become well prepared for the real world in the Chemistry degree program.
Skills Learned
- Chemical processes and materials
- Chemical experiment and design
- Modern equipment usage
- Analytical, organic, and inorganic chemistry
- Biochemistry and environmental chemistry
- Probability and statistics
- University physics and experimentation
- Advanced lab techniques and management
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Research, observation, and analysis of data
- Communication
- Time management
Possible Careers
- Pharmacologist
- Forensic chemist
- Lab technician
- Chemical engineer
- Forensic scientist
- Research scientist
- Environmental scientist
- Toxicologist
- Soil scientist
- Nuclear engineer
- Chemical consultant
- Product developer
Employers
- Hospitals and medical clinics
- Research labs
- Energy and utility companies
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Chemical companies
- Cosmetic companies
- Community programs
- Environmental agencies
- Public health organizations
- Manufacturing companies
- Government / federal agencies
- Schools, colleges, and universities
Learn From the Best
Our faculty are accomplished. Several are highly regarded as experts and have been recognized with notable honors and awards. And with a low student-to-faculty ratio, you'll be sure to receive an excellent education in the Chemistry degree program.
DJ Black JR
Assistant Professor
Michael Marmorstein, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Outside the Classroom
At Wayne State College, you’ll have opportunities to enhance your education in the Chemistry degree program by participating in clubs, organizations, activities, and more.
Clubs and Organizations
Service-Learning
Make a difference in the community while learning skills you can apply toward your future career. Wayne State’s Service-Learning program has received national awards in recognition of outstanding community service, with more than 400 students participating in Service-Learning projects each semester.
Opportunities
- Research projects, class trips, and more – Conduct your own research and present your work at regional conferences. Additionally, you’ll have opportunities to help judge at the Junior Academy of Science Fair, and also visit area science labs.
- Peer tutoring and mentoring programs – Help fellow students master their courses and improve their skills, or be part of a support system for new students, all while gaining valuable experience for your resume.
- Study Abroad - Earn credit toward your degree while experiencing exciting global adventures overseas.
Internships
Before graduating with your chemistry degree, we encourage you to first complete an internship in order to gain field experience. Career Services is available to help you find the best internship opportunities in your field of study.