Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
A bachelor's degree program in Chemistry is ideal for students interested in understanding the properties and interactions of substances at a molecular level. With skills in chemical analysis, laboratory techniques, and materials synthesis, graduates are prepared for careers as laboratory chemists, pharmaceutical researchers, or environmental scientists, working in industries like healthcare, manufacturing, and environmental protection.
Program Overview
Unlock the secrets of matter and its transformations with our Chemistry bachelor's degree, a program that lays the foundation for scientific discovery and innovation. Through a blend of rigorous coursework, hands-on laboratory experiences, and research opportunities, you’ll explore areas such as organic chemistry, biochemistry, and materials science. This program prepares you for diverse career paths in pharmaceuticals, environmental science, forensics, education, and more, or for advanced studies in chemistry and related fields. Join a program where curiosity meets precision, and start your journey to making a lasting impact in science and industry.
Related Careers
Possible Areas of Employment with a Chemistry Degree
- Alternative and renewable fuels
- Environmental engineering
- Biotechnology
- Pharmaceutics
- Food and consumer products
- Oil and natural gas
- Polymers and electronic materials
- Medicine or health sciences
Career Opportunities in Chemistry
- Research chemist
- Analytical chemist
- Agricultural chemist
- Food chemist
- Technical officer
- Product development chemist
- Process development chemist
- Quality control chemist
- Patent agent
- Laboratory technician
- Teacher
- Technical writer
- Forensic technician
- Pharmaceutical development
- Product testing and analysis
- Ethnobotanist
- Forensic chemist
- Quality control chemist - chemical sales
- Scientific equipment sales
Admission Requirements
- Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
- Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.
Any "Program Specific Requirements" that display below are specific to the program and will be required for admission to the program.
Application Requirements
Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the 2028-29 academic year).
Application Deadlines
Freshman
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Early Action
- 12/01/2025 Apply early to be considered for Lewis Honors College, scholarships, or on-campus living.
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Regular Decision
- 02/15/2026
Transfer
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Fall Scholarship
- 06/15/2025 Apply early to be considered for scholarships.
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Fall
- 08/01/2025
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Spring
- 11/15/2025
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Summer
- 04/15/2026
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
The Chemistry program offers both Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS) degree options, allowing students to choose a path that aligns with their interests and goals. The BA degree provides a solid foundation in chemistry along with flexibility to take courses in other scientific fields, making it ideal for students seeking a broad scientific education. The BS degree is more specialized and designed for those pursuing a deeper focus in chemistry or planning for graduate or professional school. BS students choose from three tracks: traditional chemistry, biochemistry, or materials chemistry, with the traditional and biochemistry tracks certified by the American Chemical Society. Across both degree options, students gain experience in analytical, organic, physical, and inorganic chemistry, while building strong skills in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and scientific reasoning. Expand the menu below to view a sample curriculum plan.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Transfer in using our KCTCS Pathway
This program has a degree pathway from KCTCS, allowing students a seamless transfer process to obtain their bachelor's degree from the University of Kentucky.
View Pathways
Get a Head Start with an
Accelerated Pathway
This program is part of the Accelerated Master's Pathways program. If you plan to obtain a related master's degree, this program can save you time and money with dual credit hours when you sign up.
Attend an Upcoming Event for this Program
These events are designed to answer your questions and give you a glimpse into what it’s like to be a part of our program.
Register Now
Explore Financial Aid Options
Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.
Program Specific Funding Opportunities
The Chemistry Department offers several scholarships that students can apply for through Scholarship Universe by the standard college deadline of March 1 each year.
Expand Your Learning
ChemCats is a branch of a national organization for students of any major interested in chemistry. By joining ChemCats, you are associating yourself with the American Chemical Society (ACS), the largest scientific society in the world and one of the oldest professional societies in the United States. Learn more about ChemCats.
Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
Get More Information
Complete the form to get the latest updates on this program, including special events and application deadlines.
Discover your Future
At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.
