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Undergraduate Admission

Chemistry

Rock stars in the lab, mixing disciplines and making breakthroughs.

Students smiling while working in the chemistry lab
"A lot of research takes place within the walls of Carnegie Mellon every year especially in the Mellon College of Science."
Alexander '23

Mellon College of Science

Chemistry

If you’re the kind that considers lab goggles an essential accessory, you’ll find your place in the Department of Chemistry. Here, you’ll build a solid foundation in the knowledge and theory of the discipline, and gain a firm grasp on the field’s practical, professional and ethical aspects. You’ll become a scientist who can think through theories, evaluate data, apply reasoning across disciplines and design experiments — and you’ll have the integrity to consider how your work will affect people and the planet, too. 

Chemistry Majors, Minor and More

Choose the path that fits you best. Browse all current Chemistry curriculums and courses.

Chemistry

Bachelor of Arts
Bachelor of Science
Minor

For scientists who like to dabble in other disciplines, the Bachelor of Arts degree program balances a strong foundation in chemistry with your choice of electives — making it an ideal option if you want to earn an additional major in another college or school. 
        
The Bachelor of Science program takes a deep dive into the foundations of chemistry, combining foundational courses in organic, physical, inorganic and analytical chemistry with research-focused, instrument-intensive lab experiences. You can choose from a variety of concentrations, including: 

  • Biochemistry
  • Polymer Science
  • Colloids, Polymers and Surfaces
  • Computational Chemistry
  • Materials Chemistry
  • Environmental Chemistry
  • Management

The Chemistry minor will allow you to take coursework in organic, inorganic, physical and modern chemistry along with quantitative and physical analysis.

Chemistry/Biological Chemistry

Bachelor of Science

Designed for students who want to pursue advanced studies in biological chemistry or biomedical fields, this degree balances advanced research-focused lecture courses with novel lab coursework that focuses on the drug discovery process. In this program, you’ll gain a greater understanding of chemistry that branches out into the realm of the biological sciences. 

Contact

Department of Chemistry

Carnegie Mellon University
4400 Fifth Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
 
 

Chemistry Website

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Classes of 2021 & 2022, Six Months After Graduation

90%

Employed or in Grad School

$74,429

Average Salary

Recent Employers

Epic

Pfizer

Unilever

PPG

High School Course Requirements

4 years English
4 years Mathematics*
1 year Chemistry
1 year Physics
1 year Biology
2 years Foreign Language
3 electives
 

*Four years of mathematics should include at least algebra, geometry, trigonometry, analytic geometry, elementary functions (pre-calculus) and preferably calculus. Advanced mathematics courses are encouraged, especially a course in calculus.

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Submit your application for the Mellon College of Science.

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Mix It Up

You’re not just one thing. You’re a scientist. An artist. A technologist. A maker. A writer. Carnegie Mellon has been mixing it up for decades, and whatever you want to pursue, we’ve got the right mix for you.