Chemistry

major, minor

Academics / Departments & Programs / Chemistry & Biochemistry / Academics Chemistry Major

Degree Overview

When you understand the tiniest components of our natural world, you can make big changes. Chemistry influences the medicine we invent, the laws we write, and the spaces we create—and Christians are needed in these spaces to solve problems and spur innovation.

Program Distinctives

A reputation for excellence - Our chemistry program is recognized nationally for its excellence. Students receive prestigious awards like the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship and National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship. Graduates get into top-rated med schools and grad schools.
A meaningful accomplishment - Calvin’s chemistry program is challenging. You are supported and encouraged every step of the way. You also gain skills that empower you to communicate, lead, and adapt.
A versatile program - Chemistry majors can take part in Calvin’s many art, music, sports, and study-abroad opportunities and still graduate in four years.

Degree Information

major
  • Courses
    Loading...
  • Admission

    To pursue a chemistry major, you’ll need to earn a minimum grade of a "C" (2.0) in two early chemistry courses you'll take at Calvin: Chemistry 104 (General Chemistry) and one of these courses: Chemistry 201, 253, or 261. These foundational courses will help you confirm your interest in chemistry and make sure that chemistry is the right path to your career goals.

    Your chemistry faculty advisor will help you understand this requirement and help you plan an academic path to your biochemistry major.

  • ACS Certification

    Adding American Chemical Society certification to your degree gives you additional research experience, and sets you up well for graduate studies. To learn how to add an ACS certification to a chemistry major, please contact the chemistry and biochemistry department or consult with a faculty advisor.

minor

Combine chemistry and engineering

Understand and improve the production of products people use every day with a chemical engineering major. In four years, you’ll graduate with the academic record and internship experience needed for a career in fields like biotechnology, environmental services, and many more. Learn more »

A female student in a lab coat interacting with scientific machinery.

EXPERIENCE Chemistry and Biochemistry AT CALVIN

PLAY VIDEO

Pie chart showing the amount of household debt accumulated by percentages of the graduating student body
Family income distribution for students applying for financial aid.

You can afford a Calvin education.

You’ve heard a lot about the high cost of a university education. But a Calvin education is much more affordable than you think. Most Calvin students pay far below the sticker price—and graduate with less debt than you might expect.

Explore affordability at Calvin »

U.S. News & World Report ranks Calvin as a Best Midwest Regional University for 2022.

A reputation for excellence.

There’s a reason Calvin gets top marks from U.S. News & World Report, The Princeton Review, and more. Calvin graduates are in demand at grad schools, med schools, and careers in every field.

Discover the Calvin advantage »

SOCIAL MEDIA

The latest sights & sounds | #calvinuniversity

Female student wading in Plaster Creek, examining a sample of water, holding it up to the sky.

ACADEMIC OPTIONS

With over 100 majors and programs, you’re bound to find something you love.

Browse by category

× CLOSE DRAWER
A dramatic view looking up at the Calvin's Crossing bridge, with a perfect blue sky overhead.

Apply to Calvin

It all starts here! We accept applications on a rolling basis throughout the year. All completed applications receive equal consideration.

Start your journey × CLOSE DRAWER
A female and male student walking side by side down the Calvin's Crossing bridge, conversing with each other.

Visit Calvin

Find the visit option that works best for you and get a taste for life at Calvin!

Browse Visit Options Launch the virtual tour × CLOSE DRAWER
Students huddled around, lighting sparklers with a beautiful evening sky behind them.

Request Info

Learn why Calvin’s dedication to faith and discovery have earned it the rank of #3 among regional midwest universities.

Loading...
× CLOSE DRAWER
Graduates in their robes, tossing their caps high into the air, laughing.

Costs & Financial Aid

Families from all economic backgrounds—many just like yours—are making Calvin work. Scholarships, grants and loans are the tools that make Calvin possible.

Explore financial aid & Scholarships How much does Calvin cost? × CLOSE DRAWER
Top