Chemistry (Environmental Chemistry) ,BS
Air Quality, Alternative Fuels, Atmosphere, Chemist, Energy, Environment, Geochemistry, Oceanography, Pharmaceutical, Pollution, Research, Science, Water Quality, approved for STEM-OPT extension, materials, sustainability
Solve today's environmental changes and unleash your potential to benefit the planet with hands-on lab experiences that allow you to delve into eco-friendly solutions. Master environmental chemistry, crafting a foundation for critical thinking, problem-solving and an Earth-conscious perspective.
The BS program in chemistry with a concentration in environmental chemistry equips students with interdisciplinary knowledge, combining chemistry with environmental sciences, geology, mathematics and physics. Graduates gain a molecular perspective of the world, focusing on pollution control, energy and climate change. Students develop the expertise to address environmental challenges, making them well prepared for careers in environmental science, policy, regulation and advanced studies in chemical and environmental sciences at the graduate level.
The curriculum merges chemistry and environmental sciences courses, fostering a holistic understanding of environmental issues. It includes traditional coursework with lectures and hands-on laboratory sessions. The program emphasizes problem-solving, critical thinking and interdisciplinary competence. Students are encouraged to join laboratory research groups and faculty research projects, allowing them to engage in hands-on research and contribute to environmental solutions.
In addition to the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, students interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences are advised to visit The College's website for more information and requirements.
This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 36 months. This OPT work authorization term may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.
The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing the degree through ASU Online.
- College/school:
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Location: Tempe
- Second language requirement: No
-
First required math course:
MAT 270 - Calculus w/Analytic Geometry I
or MAT 265 Calculus for Engineers -
Math intensity:
Substantial
General university admission requirements:
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
First-year | Transfer | International | Readmission
A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.
Students should visit the Change of Major form for information about how to change a major to this program.
ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU® to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.
ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and they help students save time and money in their college journey.
Students who participate in Global Education programs can strengthen their understanding of environmental chemistry through hands-on experience in new and exciting environments. Programs provide students with a global perspective and knowledge in preparation for a forward-thinking career.
A solid undergraduate program of education in chemistry that is obtained with this degree provides the necessary background for many career paths in chemical industries, government and other areas. This degree can be combined with law for patent work or government work, economics for sales and marketing careers, and computer science for careers in information storage and retrieval related to our planet.
Students planning to work in areas related to the environment will find the environmental chemistry concentration especially appropriate; they are also prepared for careers in environmental science, environmental monitoring, policy and regulation.
Example job titles and salaries listed below are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience and geographical location may affect pay scales. Some jobs also may require advanced degrees, certifications or state-specific licensure.
| Career | *Growth | *Median salary |
|---|---|---|
|
3.2%
|
$50,840
|
|
|
6.2%
|
$80,670
|
|
|
6.1%
|
$76,480
|
|
|
3.6%
|
$76,920
|
|
|
12.6%
|
$63,740
|
|
|
6.1%
|
$76,480
|
|
|
4.8%
|
$144,440
|
|
|
4.4%
|
$83,780
|
|
|
4.1%
|
$64,460
|
|
|
4.7%
|
$65,730
|
School of Molecular Sciences
|
PSD 104
SMSadvising@asu.edu
480-965-7667
3 year programs
These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
