About
Chemistry is the study of matter, so understanding chemistry means understanding the world around you. Environmental chemists monitor what is in the air, water and soil, determine effects and evaluate how human activity influences the environment. This work may include researching pollution and contamination and promoting policy that supports protection of the environment.
The Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry - Environmental provides a broad and rigorous curriculum in the natural sciences. Students completing this degree will be prepared to enter environmental chemistry positions in industry, business or government. Most pursue post-graduate studies in various areas of environmental science.
Like other degrees in Appalachian’s Department of Chemistry and Fermentation Sciences, this one combines an innovative and intellectually challenging curriculum with scholarship and service/engagement opportunities that employ state-of-the-art technologies. Chemistry majors graduate with strong problem-solving skills that are transferrable to a number of professions.
After Graduation
Employment: Many graduates go directly into jobs in industry or government, with employers including GlaxoSmithKline, Exela, the Environmental Protection Agency, National Institute of Health, and the FBI.
Graduate School: The demand for qualified chemistry majors wishing to pursue graduate studies is high. More than half of Appalachian’s chemistry majors go on to graduate schools all over the country, mostly for chemistry, environmental science, pharmacy and medical school. Recent destinations include Duke University, University of Virginia, University of Colorado, University of California Irvine, Virginia Tech, N.C. State, University of Michigan, University of Charleston, UNC-Chapel Hill and Wake Forest University.
People
Related Programs
Minors
A minor is optional. Chemistry majors often minor or take courses in Physics, Geology, Math, Spanish, Criminal Justice, Marketing or Biology.
Engagement Outside the Classroom
Forensic Science Club – for students interested in forensic science, computer forensics, toxicology or a career in law enforcement.
Appalachian Chemical Society – the campus chapter of the American Chemical Society.
Club of the Environmental Sciences – a student organization that welcomes anyone interested in environmental science.
Global Learning
Appalachian is committed to introducing students to different cultures and teaching them how to live and interact in a global society.
Depending on their research topic, students may want to connect with scholars in other countries. Chemistry majors are allowed to conduct research with faculty at any of Appalachian’s international partners.
Admission Requirements
There are no admission requirements beyond admission to Appalachian State University.
Why Appalachian?
- Chemistry majors from Appalachian typically graduate with multiple job offers and can work in any area of the profession, regardless of their concentration.
- State-of-the-art technology gives students job-ready skills, while also providing services to research and industry partners.
- Professors focus exclusively on undergraduates, and about half of all chemistry majors conduct research directly with a faculty member and present at national or regional conferences.
- Employers comment that Appalachian chemistry majors need minimal on-the-job training.
- Weekly seminar discussions bring national leaders to campus, enhancing learning and career opportunities for upper-level students.
Location
Boone campus only
Careers
The American Chemical Society details career options in industry, academia, government, non-profit and entrepreneurship. Learn more
Career options with any chemistry degree can include the following, with some requiring more than a bachelor’s degree:
- Analytical Chemist
- Biochemist
- Brewer Lab Assistant
- Laboratory Technician
- Chemical Oceanographer
- Clinical Chemist
- Color Development Chemist
- Development Chemist
- Environmental Health Specialist
- Fire Protection Engineer
- Food and Drug Inspector
- Food Scientist Technician
- Forensic Chemist
- Hydrologist
- Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
- Pharmacologist
- Sanitation Inspector
- Toxicologist
View more career possibilities
Contacts
Department of Chemistry and Fermentation Sciences
Dr. Petia Bobadova
Chair
bobadovap@appstate.edu
828-262-8478