Chemical Sciences (BA)
Why study chemical sciences?
Chemical sciences is an interdisciplinary study incorporating foundational chemistry knowledge and techniques into a variety of fields. From healthcare and environmental conservation to manufacturing, food testing, and forensic science, chemical sciences play an important role in solving real-world problems and improving lives. If you are interested in science and want to build strong laboratory, analytical, and problem-solving skills, a degree in chemical sciences may be right for you.
As a chemical sciences major at Aurora University, you will develop foundational knowledge of matter transformation through a series of chemistry core courses. You will also have the opportunity to conduct research in state-of-the-art science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) labs. In AU’s labs, you will gain hands-on experience with modern instrumental techniques, including powder X-ray diffraction, atomic absorption, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, gas chromatography, and high-performance liquid chromatography.
Within the chemical sciences program, you will choose one of six interdisciplinary tracks to tailor your studies to your interests and career goals:
- Biomedical, to prepare for careers in biomedical research, medical laboratories, and the food industry.
- Business Management, to develop expertise in leadership, management, marketing, and sales for scientific companies.
- Computational Science, to focus on computational chemistry, data analysis, and scientific programming.
- Conservation, to explore environmental monitoring, hazardous waste remediation, and water treatment.
- Data Analytics, to build skills in data analytics, data-driven decision-making, and scientific computing.
- Forensics, to prepare for work in drug analysis, toxicology, and trace evidence analysis.
You can also expand your career opportunities with a double major. The chemical sciences major pairs well with biology, business administration, computer science, health science, mathematics, and psychology. Even with a second major, you’ll still be able to graduate in four years.
- Analytical chemistry
- Chemical research methods
- General chemistry
- Instrumental methods of analysis
- Organic chemistry
- Chemistry Club
- Mu Sigma Pi: Mind. Body. Spirit.
Experiential learning
Chemical sciences students will work and study in AU’s modern labs to prepare for real-world scenarios. You will learn technical instrumentation, experimentation, and analysis, as well as how to effectively communicate in interdisciplinary settings.
Prepare for your future
The chemical sciences program at AU was developed with input from regional industry partners, including Entegris, FONA/McCormick, and Fox Metro Water Reclamation, so students will graduate ready to meet workforce needs in the western Chicago suburbs and Fox Valley area. This interdisciplinary program is designed to prepare you for a variety of chemistry careers that may not require the advanced mathematics or research focus of a traditional chemistry program.
Career possibilities
- Chemical sales representative
- Clinical lab assistant
- Data analytics/science technology roles
- Entry-level laboratory technician
- Environmental health and safety lab technician
- Food testing technician
- Forensics lab technician
- Quality control technician
- Water treatment technician