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The Chemistry Major

Note: Current chemistry students graduating in Summer 2026 or earlier will graduate with a BA in CHEM. Chemistry students who plan to graduate Fall 2026 or later will graduate with a BS in CHEM with no changes to degree requirements. Learn more.

The chemistry major requires 30 credits of upper-division chemistry coursework, including courses in general, organic, physical, and analytical chemistry. Students must complete the general requirements of the College of Arts and Sciences and the required courses listed in the catalog. No more than 45 credits of CHEM courses can be applied to the 120-credit minimum to graduate.

Transfer students who plan to take a chemistry major must complete at the Boulder campus a minimum of 12 credits of upper-division work covering at least two subdisciplines.

More details on the undergraduate program can be found through the catalog or by speaking with your academic advisor.

Flowchart4-Year Plan

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The Chemistry Minor

The chemistry minor is open to any student enrolled at Â鶹ÊÓƵ, regardless of college or school. The minor consists of 26-28 credit hours covering topics in general, organic, and physical chemistry. Choosing to add a chemistry minor complements technical skills from STEM majors and interpersonal skills from liberal arts majors. It can also boost your employability in fields such as engineering, medicine, and environmental science.

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Double Major

Many students in the CHEM department pursue double majors between departments. Common combinations include combining a CHEM major with Biochemistry (BCHM), Integrative Physiology (IPHY), or Molecular & Cellular Developmental Biology (MCDB). Some students also pursue a double degree with Engineering. It's recommended to work with an advisor early in your time here at CU to best fulfill requirements for a diverse range of programs, and overlap your studies in innovative and collaborative ways.Ìý