Choices For Majors
B.S. in Chemistry
The overall objective of the B.S. Chemistry Major program is to provide the fundamental scientific background and practical training for students as they prepare for chemically related careers or advanced study in fields including the traditional chemical specialties, as well as biochemistry, materials science, forensic science, medicine, education, law, and other endeavors that may draw upon an understanding of the chemical basis of the world around us. A key general objective is the development of qualitative and quantitative problem-solving skills. Of comparable importance is developing effective communication skills. Specific learning objectives for the chemistry major include, to:
- develop conceptual understanding and problem-solving abilities in the fundamental chemical subfields of analytical chemistry, biochemistry, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, and physical chemistry
- gain a foundation of physics and mathematics and integrate these areas with chemical principles
- earn the relevance of chemistry to biology, pharmacology, medicine, manufactured and natural materials, and the environment
- perform accurate and precise quantitative measurements
- synthesize and characterize inorganic and organic compounds
- earn proper laboratory practices, including safety, waste management, and record keeping
- use and understand modern instruments, including NMR, IR, UV-vis, and mass spectrometers, and chromatographic and electrochemical instruments
- interpret experimental results and draw reasonable conclusions
- develop proficiency with computers for data acquisition and analysis, simulation, theoretical prediction, access to information, and report preparation
- plan, design, and execute experiments based on chemical literature
- communicate effectively through written and oral reports
B.S /M.S. in Chemistry
The Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology has developed a unique program leading to both Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Chemistry following an intensive five-year period of study including significant research and industrial experience. The B.S. / M.S. program is entirely compatible with the goals of a pre-med student.
The goal of the dual degree is to foster closer relations between students, faculty and industrial partners. Students will work on research projects developed jointly by faculty and private sector partners leading to a MS thesis. Students will participate in three six-month co-op and/or internship periods. For students interested in medicine, the internships will involve local medical schools and hospitals.
The B.S. / M.S. program is directed toward high-achieving students with an overall QPA of 3.25 or higher. Students will be considered for admission into the program following completion of 80 semester hours of university credit including a minimum of six chemistry courses.
Students will not jeopardize their B.S. degree nor affect opportunities to pursue higher degrees by participating in the B.S. / M.S. program.
B.S. in Biochemistry
The biochemistry major provides students with the opportunity to understand complex biological events at the molecular level. The B.S. in Biochemistry is sponsored jointly by the Chemistry Department and the Biology Department. The biochemistry major provides a strong foundation in mathematics and physics as well as thorough training in biology and chemistry. Students achieve greater depth in biochemistry than would ordinarily occur for a student majoring in biology or chemistry alone.
In addition to formal class work, opportunities are available for participation in faculty research programs on an individual basis or through the honors program, with faculty from either the Chemistry or Biology Departments. The large number of biotechnology companies and medical facilities in the Boston area provides a rich source of opportunities for experiences through Northeastern's program of cooperative education.
The B.S. in Biochemistry prepares students to enter a graduate or professional school or to find employment as a biochemist in a wide variety of settings from private corporations to government agencies to universities.
The major consists of four biochemistry courses in addition to required courses in biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics. Three of the biochemistry courses are lecture courses while the fourth is an intensive laboratory course which emphasizes the study of proteins and nucleic acids.
Click here for more information on the biology department.