Chemistry occupies a central place in the study of matter and life, including the abstract theoretical modeling of materials as well as the concrete molecular foundations of living systems.

Chemistry careers span the entire range of contemporary technologies. BS graduates in chemistry work in laboratories developing pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, energy resources, advanced materials for specific applications, solutions to environmental problems, and so on. A chemistry bachelor’s degree is also excellent preparation for professional schools of medicine or dentistry, especially with the increasing dependence of medical research and practice on knowledge of living systems at the molecular level. With the MS or PhD in chemistry, a scientist can take responsibility for planning research and supervising laboratories. Excellent career opportunities are found in private industry, in government laboratories, and in college and university chemistry and biochemistry departments.

In addition to our chemistry major approved by the American Chemical Society, Simmons offers a number of special programs:

• Major in biochemistry
• Major in environmental science
• Double degree in chemistry and pharmacy, in collaboration with Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
• Joint major in chemistry and management
• MAT in teaching chemistry fast-track
• MS in science librarianship fast-track

The MAT fast-track program permits students to decrease the time required to obtain a master’s degree by starting graduate courses during the undergraduate years. A science major may pursue this program to obtain secondary school teaching credentials. The program in library and information science will appeal to students interested in the application of new technology to science information retrieval.