Welcome to the Chemistry Undergraduate Program FAQ page. Below are answers to common questions for current and prospective students majoring in Chemistry or Chemical Physics at MSU.

For official program and degree information, visit the MSU Department of Chemistry
and MSU Office of the Registrar.

General Program Information

What undergraduate degree programs are offered?

The Department of Chemistry offers:

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Chemistry 
• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Chemistry 
• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Chemical Physics 

Learn more about undergraduate programs here. 

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What is the difference between the B.A., B.S., and Chemical Physics majors?

B.A. in Chemistry

The B.A. degree provides greater flexibility and is often selected by students interested in:

• Pre-health professions 
• Secondary education 
• Interdisciplinary studies 
• Double majors or minors 

B.S. in Chemistry

The B.S. degree is more rigorous and research-focused and is recommended for students planning to pursue:

• Graduate school 
• Research careers 
• Technical industry positions 

B.S. in Chemical Physics

Chemical Physics combines advanced chemistry, mathematics, and physics coursework and is ideal for students interested in:

• Physical chemistry 
• Materials science 
• Computational science 
• Physics-related careers or graduate programs 

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Academic Advising

Do I have an academic advisor?

Yes. Chemistry and Chemical Physics students are assigned an academic advisor within the Department of Chemistry. The current Chemistry and Chemical Physics advisor is Dr. Sheba Onchiri.

Your advisor can help you:
• Plan coursework 
• Understand degree requirements 
• Monitor graduation progress 
• Explore career and graduate school options 

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How often should I meet with my advisor?

Students are encouraged to meet with their advisor at least once each semester before enrollment.

You should also schedule an appointment if you are:

• Experiencing academic difficulty 
• Considering changing majors 
• Planning for graduate or professional school 
• Adjusting your graduation timeline 
How do I make an advising appointment?
• Follow these steps:

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Degree Requirements

How many credits are required to graduate?

All Chemistry and Chemical Physics undergraduate degrees require a minimum of 120 credits, including:

• University requirements 
• College requirements 
• Major requirements 

View official degree requirements through the MSU Registrar Academic Programs Page.

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What is the Tier II Writing Requirement?

The Tier II Writing Requirement is completed through designated upper-level courses within the major.

Examples may include:

• CEM 333 (B.A chemistry program)
• CEM 425 (B.A chemistry program)
• CEM 495 (B.S chemistry program)
• CEM 499 (B. S in chemical physics program)

Specific requirements vary by degree program.

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Course Planning & Registration

What courses should I take during my first year?

Most first-year students begin with:

• General Chemistry 
• Calculus 
• Introductory Physics (depending on major track) 
• University and Integrative Studies requirements

Please note that course placement may vary based on:

• AP/IB credit 
• Transfer credit 
• Placement exam results 

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Why is course sequencing important?

Chemistry courses build on one another and many upper-level courses require prerequisites.

Typical sequence:

General Chemistry → Organic Chemistry → Advanced Chemistry Courses

Delays in prerequisite completion may affect graduation timelines.

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Where can I view my degree progress?

Students should regularly review:

• SIS Degree Progress tools 
• Academic program requirements 
• Curriculum maps provided by the department 

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Can I repeat a course?

Yes. MSU allows students to repeat courses according to university policies. Repeating a course may impact:

• Graduation timeline 
• Financial aid 
• Academic standing

Students should discuss repeat plans with their advisor.

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Research & Career Preparation

Is undergraduate research available?

Yes. Undergraduate research opportunities are strongly encouraged for Chemistry and Chemical Physics students.

Students can:

• Join faculty research groups 
• Earn research credit 
• Participate in independent study projects

Learn more at the MSU Chemistry Research page here.

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What careers can I pursue with a Chemistry degree? 

Graduates pursue careers in:

• Pharmaceuticals 
• Biotechnology 
• Environmental science 
• Materials science 
• Healthcare professions 
• Government laboratories 
• Education

Many students also continue to:

• Graduate school 
• Medical school 
• Dental school 
• Pharmacy school 

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Academic Support & Student Success

What should I do if I am struggling academically?

Students are encouraged to seek support early.

Available resources may include:

• Academic advising 
• Tutoring services 
• Academic help rooms 
• Professors’ Office hours 
• Counseling and support services 

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Can I change from a B.A. to a B.S. or Chemical Physics major?

Yes. Students may change degree tracks, though additional coursework may be required.
Students should consult with an academic advisor before making changes to ensure proper planning.

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Graduation

How do I know if I am ready to graduate?

Before graduation, students must:

• Complete all degree requirements 
• Earn at least 120 credits 
• Satisfy university, college, and major requirements 
• Complete Tier II Writing requirements

Students should meet with their advisor to verify graduation readiness.

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What are common reasons graduation is delayed?

Common causes include:

• Missing prerequisites 
• Delayed math or chemistry sequencing 
• Incomplete major requirements 
• Insufficient total credits

Regular advising appointments help students stay on track.