Our BA in Chemistry program teaches chemical principles and the flexibility to pursue interdisciplinary studies in pre-health sciences, forensics or education. Theoretical learning and hands-on labs provide skills and a scientific perspective. Tailor your degree to your career goals with a concentration in pre-med, forensics or secondary chemistry education.
What is a BA in Chemistry degree?
Reduce tuition by up to $24k
Why earn a BA in Chemistry?
Our program provides critical thinking, hands-on experiences and technical expertise. Innovation flourishes in our supportive and collaborative learning environment, giving the foundation needed to pursue employment, graduate or professional studies.
Research opportunities
Participate in research projects in your first year.
Lab experience
Gain hands-on laboratory skills by working for the department as a laboratory prep worker.
Tailored programs
Add a concentration in pre-med, forensics or secondary chemistry education.
Deepen your learning
You have the flexibility to add a second major or a minor of interest. Popular choices include biology and psychology.
Career guidance
We’ll help you explore your options through our Career Exploration in Chemistry course.
Industry-standard equipment
Gain familiarity with HPLC, GC-MS,AAS, UV-Vis spectroscopy and calorimetry.
What you’ll learn in your BA in Chemistry program
Learn foundational principles of chemistry and laboratory safety in this flexible program. Later courses delve into subdisciplines of chemistry through inquiry-driven labs preparing you to think critically, methodically and creatively.
Core skills:
- Master theoretical and experimental skills
- Develop expertise of quantitative analysis in Excel and PowerPoint
- Gain familiarity with industry-standard instrumentation
- Develop reasoning and problem-solving skills
Concentration Pathways:
- Pre-med: Prepare for medical school and health-related professional programs
- Forensics: Apply analytical chemistry skills to forensic science careers and evidence analysis
- Secondary Chemistry Education: Gain the knowledge and teaching skills for secondary-level chemistry instruction
How much does a BA in Chemistry degree cost?
The cost of your degree will depend on several factors, like scholarships, housing, meal plans, and transfer credits. New students also pay a $100 matriculation fee. You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses. Explore the cost of attendance.
Full-time student living on campus
| Expense | By semester | By year |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)* | $19,674 | $39,348 |
| Housing** | $4,313 | $8,625 |
| Food*** | $3,135 | $6,270 |
| Technology fee | $150 | $300 |
| Total direct charges (billable) | $27,272 | $54,543 |
*Based on 2026-2027 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**This cost is estimated, actual housing cost will vary by student selections.
***Cost estimate based on 3 meals per day.
How much does campus housing cost?
When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet the needs of our students. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there’s something for everyone. The cost of our housing will vary based on where you decide to live and the meal plan you choose.
St. Ambrose University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Accreditation and recognitions provide the assurance we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.
How does SAU support Chemistry students?
SAU's Chemistry faculty uses evidence-based practices in the classroom. They're active members of several professional organizations and attend workshops and conferences to keep up-to-date in the field.
Chemistry faculty
Other support resources
Academic Coaching and Enrichment Center
At St. Ambrose, we want you to thrive. Access free tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction through our Academic Coaching and Enrichment Center.
Access and Disability Services
Whether you need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements or disability support strategies, our Access and Disability Services are here to help.
Career Services
Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land the job or internship that will launch your career.
Are there scholarships available for BA in Chemistry?
SAU believes education should be accessible to all. We offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to make college more affordable for our students so they can succeed academically and financially.
Ambrose Advantage Scholarship
Through the Ambrose Advantage scholarship program, a tuition-free St. Ambrose University education is available to any Pell Grant-eligible Iowans. Learn more about the Ambrose Advantage.
Merit-based and institutional scholarships
St. Ambrose offers excellent scholarships and grants based on your strong academic performance, your talent in fine arts or athletics, or your community involvement. Explore SAU scholarships.
Transfer credits
At SAU, you may be able to transfer previous college credit toward your bachelor’s degree, saving you significant time and money. Learn how to transfer credits.
College made affordable
"I always wanted to go to college but finances were an issue. With the Ambrose Advantage, I don't have to worry. My tuition is paid, and I'm getting a good education."
Alexis Stovall, Davenport, IA
What’s on campus for Chemistry students?
Join our active chapter of the American Chemical Society (ACS) here on campus. We meet monthly for activities and speakers, and through community outreach activities we work to inspire the next generation of chemists.
Friendly atmosphere to help you grow
"The Chemistry Club is one of the closest groups on campus, and one of the best. All of the members are super friendly."
-Nick Schaffner '21, BS in Chemistry
What are the general admission requirements for a BA in Chemistry?
Here are the admissions requirements for our Chemistry program.
- You must have graduated from an accredited high school or earned a GED.
- You must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 (weighted or unweighted).
- You must provide an official high school transcript.
International student requirements
If you live outside of the U.S. there are different admissions requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Official transcripts from secondary education
- A minimum 2.5 CGPA out of a 4.0 scale, or equivalent
- Proof of English language proficiency (minimum scores: TOEFL - 79, IELTS - 6.0)
- Copy of your passport and other documentation
What can I do with a BA in Chemistry degree?
Your degree can help you reach your professional goals. SAU can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. Here is a list of potential job titles, traits and settings graduates of our Chemistry program could achieve.
Potential job titles
- Teacher
- Research Assistant
- Forensic Science Technician
- Chemical Laboratory Technician
- Quality Control Analyst
- Material Scientist
Potential employment settings
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Publishing firm
- Colleges and universities
- Middle and high schools
- Law firms
Traits of a BA in Chemistry graduate
- Problem-solving
- Critical thinking
- Analytical
- Management
- Organized
- Attentive
Industry facts
- The median salary for Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians is $61,890 per year in 2024
- Employment of Chemical Laboratory Technicians is projected to grow 2 percent from 2024 to 2034.
For more information on Chemistry employment and wages, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook.
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With more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.
