Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry
Program Overview & Goals
The Chemistry major at Hendrix College provides students with the foundational principles, methods, and applications of chemistry. Students may earn an American Chemical Society (ACS) certified degree, a nationally recognized credential that demonstrates rigorous preparation for graduate study and careers in chemistry. The program emphasizes analytical reasoning, experimental design, and problem-solving so that students develop the technical and intellectual skills to address scientific questions in academic, industrial, medical, and environmental contexts.
Via Hendrix
Whether your goals include attending graduate school in chemistry, pursuing a career in pharmaceuticals or biotechnology, or working in environmental or materials science, you can get there Via Hendrix.
Our comprehensive four-year plan begins by asking where you want to go and then equips you with the guidance, experiences, and space for personal growth and achievement.
At Hendrix, career readiness is embedded in every course, project, and hands-on learning opportunity. This ensures that you are building toward a meaningful life filled with purpose, starting from day one when you arrive on the Hendrix campus.
Careers & Outcomes
The Hendrix College Chemistry major prepares students for success in a variety of intellectually rewarding careers within the healthcare, engineering, energy, environmental, governmental, academic, non-profit, and entrepreneurial sectors. Students who complete the ACS-certified degree graduate with credentials recognized by employers, graduate programs, and research institutions nationwide.
Salary Projections
The median salary for a Chemical Engineer is $121,860 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Top Industries
- Medicine
- Higher Education
- Research Science
- Business
- Pharmacy
Career Options
A degree in chemistry prepares you for a career in a plethora of science- and technology-related fields. Hendrix chemistry alumni work in a variety of disciplines, including:
- Environmental Consulting
- Master Brewer
- Medical Doctor
- Research Scientist
Co-op Opportunities
Experience separates good job candidates from great ones. At Hendrix, professional work experiences are guaranteed through our robust co-op program. Through this required component of the chemistry major, students can work at places including:
- Labs
- Clinics
- Pharmacies
- Hospitals
Roadmap to the Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry
Our research-rich Chemistry curriculum is designed to help students become life-long, creative problem solvers using chemistry. This is accomplished through experience with first-class instruments at even the introductory level, group projects, and inquiry-based assignments. Participation in faculty sponsored research solidifies this education.
Year One
Our First-Year Experience course gives you the freedom to discover what you care about most and find a path to get there. During your first year, you’ll build a strong foundation in chemistry and mathematics that prepares you for advanced coursework and future scientific exploration.
Year Two
In your second year, you will have a stronger vision of what your academic experience and career planning look like. Your integrated advising team of faculty, career counselors, and mentors will ensure that the things you study align with your future goals while still providing room to explore.
Year Three
Your third year includes a required full-time co-op. For one semester, you earn credit while applying knowledge from your coursework in a professional setting.
Year Four
Your last year is not the finish line. It is where everything starts. In the Senior Year Experience course, you will assemble and reflect on the body of work and experiences you have achieved in your time at Hendrix. You will be ready to present who you have become and the skills you have developed confidently.
Meet the Faculty
Our full-time faculty in the Chemistry program hold advanced degrees in their fields and have expertise and close connection to the current pulse of their respective fields of study. Just as importantly, they are dedicated to you. They work closely with you as both teachers and mentors, supporting you every step of the way to your dream career.
Andres Caro
Cynthia Cook Sandefur Odyssey Professor of Chemistry
Chair, Biochemistry / Molecular Biology Program
Courtney Hatch
Nancy Craig and Wood Odyssey Professor of Chemistry
David Hales
Professor of Chemistry
John Himmelberg
Assistant Professor of Chemistry
Sarah Nall
Instructor of Chemistry
Related Programs
At Hendrix, you can study chemical physics, biochemistry and molecular biology, or even build your own major that integrates scientific discovery across disciplines.
Your Next Steps Via Hendrix
Unlock your potential in science, discovery, and innovation. Learn how much value the Chemistry major from Hendrix College can deliver for you as you prepare for advanced study and impactful careers in science and research.