Chemistry at NIU
Bachelor of Science
Discover chemical reactions that define our lives.
Chemical processes affect everything, from leaves changing color in the fall to our bodies converting food into energy. As a chemistry major, you'll learn about the elements that make up the world and explore how they combine and react. You'll gain the skills and knowledge to contribute to education, research and products that improve people’s lives.
With my fascination with medicine and how our bodies naturally fight infections, I made the decision to become a pharmacist at 14 years old and have stuck to that ambition since. Now that I'm attending NIU, I'm taking a major step in achieving this goal.”
Did You Know?
Our Analytical Lab provides chemistry majors with opportunities to work with spectrometers and other scientific instrumentation.
What Can I Do With a Chemistry Degree From NIU?
Chemists generally work in research in settings such as manufacturing, agriculture, education and government/nonprofit organizations. You can also teach chemistry at a junior/senior high school or attend medical or another professional school.
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Fast-track Your Graduate Degree
Our accelerated B.S. and M.S. in chemistry program allows you to earn both degrees in just five years.
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Top employers include:
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What to Expect as a Chemistry Major at NIU
You'll learn from faculty with research expertise in many areas, such as cancer therapy, drug design and the molecular basis of aging. You can choose the degree emphasis that best meets your goals:
- Biochemistry
- Chemistry
- Chemistry for pre-professionals
- Secondary teaching
How We’ll Help You Succeed
Apply for free and we’ll automatically consider you for a renewable merit scholarship.
Pursue your bachelor's degree at an exceptional value with our affordable tuition and fees.
Get access to career support resources like assessments, leadership courses and resume/cover letter support.
Apply to NIU
First-year Students
(Freshman)
High School GPA
3.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed general NIU admission.
ACT/SAT SCORES
We think your high school GPA is a better predictor of your success.
Transfer Students
ALL COLLEGES GPA
2.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed general NIU admission.
ALL COLLEGES GPA
3.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed a
renewable merit scholarship.