Chemistry: General Track
Get a deep, ACS-aligned chemistry foundation. SSU's General Chemistry track combines analytical, organic, inorganic, physical, and biochemistry coursework with hands-on lab work and one-on-one research with faculty.
Program Overview
Shawnee State University’s Bachelor of Science in Chemistry provides students with a deep and comprehensive understanding of this essential discipline, preparing them for successful chemistry careers in industrial chemistry, government, or pharmaceuticals—or for advanced study in chemistry or other allied sciences.
Our bachelor's in chemistry is designed to meet the highest standards in the field, closely aligning with the American Chemical Society (ACS) guidelines. Students engage in a rigorous curriculum that includes coursework in analytical, organic, inorganic, physical, and biochemistry. Hands-on laboratory work is integrated into each stage of the BS chemistry program, with access to state-of-the-art instrumentation and software tools, including those used in computational chemistry.
SSU chemistry majors also benefit from frequent one-on-one research opportunities with faculty. This commitment to mentorship and experiential learning ensures that every student is guided toward career readiness, whether that means stepping directly into the workforce or pursuing graduate or professional school, such as pharmacy or medical school.
Tailored Career Tracks in Chemistry
We offer three tracks in Chemistry, based on your career goals: General Chemistry, Industrial Chemistry, and Pre-Pharmacy. Learn more about our Chemistry Bachelor Degrees.
Career Outcomes
How to Apply
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Start your application
Free, takes about 15 minutes.
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Send transcripts
Have your high school guidance counselor send them to admissions@shawnee.edu
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File the FAFSA
School code 009942. Required for Free Tuition.
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Get your decision
Most decisions in under 7 days.
At A Glance
Chemistry: General Track
Degree
B.S.
Format
On Campus
Length
4 years (full-time)
Credits
120
Class Size
12:1
Location
Main Campus (Massie Hall)
Start Date
6 entry points; next start date October 19
Why Study Chemistry: General Track at Shawnee University
ACS-aligned curriculum. The program follows American Chemical Society guidelines, so the chemistry you learn meets recognized national standards.
Three tracks to fit your goals. Choose the General track for graduate school or broad chemistry careers, or move into Industrial or Pre-Pharmacy.
Modern instrumentation. You'll learn on the kind of equipment and computational chemistry tools used in real labs.
One-on-one research. Faculty mentor undergraduate research projects from project design through presentation.
The 120-credit B.S. blends general education, chemistry coursework, and supporting math and sciences. The General track adds depth in analytical, physical, biochemistry, and inorganic chemistry, plus a capstone research experience.
- General Education Program (31 credits)
- Chemistry curriculum (track-based, 30-46 credits)
- Math and support sciences (7-8 credits)
- General electives (24-28 credits)
- General Chemistry track (46 credits): General & Organic Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry I & II, Biochemistry, Physical Chemistry I & II, Inorganic Chemistry, Chemistry Capstone & Research
- Total: 120 credits
You'll have the chance to work with faculty on original research, take on internships in industry or healthcare, and use modern instrumentation in lab courses. Lab work focuses on safe practice, technical accuracy, and the kinds of problem-solving you'll do on the job or in graduate school.
- Apply and evaluate chemical information from scientific literature and databases
- Communicate complex chemical concepts clearly in writing and out loud
- Solve problems using scientific reasoning and chemical knowledge
- Follow and advocate for proper laboratory safety practices
- Operate and interpret results from industry-standard instrumentation
On campus at Shawnee State University in Portsmouth, Ohio, with modern lab facilities in Massie Hall and partnerships that support research and internships.
- Chemist in pharmaceuticals, biotech, or chemical manufacturing
- Quality control or analytical chemist
- Environmental testing or forensic chemistry
- Laboratory manager or research associate
- Graduate study in chemistry, biochemistry, or materials science
- Pharmacy, medical, or other professional school
Graduates work in pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, environmental testing, lab and education roles, or move on to graduate or professional school.
Free Tuition and Financial Aid
Shawnee State's tuition is among the lowest in Ohio, and the Shawnee Advantage Tuition Guarantee keeps your rate flat for four years. Scholarships including Choose Ohio First and the Pell-Eligible Free Tuition Program may also apply.
See if you Qualify for Free Tuition
Ohio students can apply to receive a $1,500 scholarship up to full-tuition when you apply and are accepted.
Learn More about Choose Ohio FirstChemistry: General Track Frequently Asked Questions
The Pre-Pharmacy track is built specifically around pharmacy school prerequisites.
Yes. Research is highly encouraged and often counts toward degree requirements.
Graduates work in chemical manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, environmental testing, lab work, and education, or pursue graduate or professional school.
Internships aren't required, but they're highly encouraged, especially for students considering the Industrial track.
Program handbook
Contact the Department of Natural Sciences for the current chemistry program handbook.
Accreditation
Shawnee State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The chemistry curriculum is aligned with American Chemical Society (ACS) guidelines.
