Arizona State University (Tempe campus)
Arizona State University (Tempe campus)

Arizona State University (Tempe campus)

1151 S Forest Ave, Tempe, AZ, United States Arizona, Tempe, USA Visit web page

Chemistry (Environmental Chemistry), BS

Study detals

: Bachelor's degree : Chemistry (Environmental Chemistry), BS LACHMEBS : Full time : 48 Month

Requirements

Academic requirements

First-year students must:

  • Have a 3.00 grade point average (GPA) (a "B" or better where "A"=4.00) from a secondary school. Some ASU programs may have higher admission or English proficiency requirements and may consider a minimum ACT or SAT score.
  • Must have three years of high school coursework. (If you are currently in high school, ASU needs to see 9–11 grade coursework. If you have completed high school, ASU needs to see 10–12 grade coursework.)
  • Must have and present a completed high school diploma or certificate.

Conditional admission

ASU may offer conditional undergraduate admission to international applicants to an on-campus program who meet the academic (aptitude) requirements but who are not proficient in English. This offer of conditional admission will give you time to improve your English proficiency before you start classes at ASU. Your conditional admission offer is good for up to three semesters, during which time you must meet one of these requirements to begin your ASU experience.

Competency requirements

International students who completed high school outside the U.S. are required to meet the following competency requirements:

  • Math: four years (algebra I, geometry, algebra II and one course requiring algebra II as a prerequisite).
  • Laboratory science: three years total (one year each from any of the following areas are accepted: biology, chemistry, earth science, integrated sciences and physics).

Provide evidence of English language proficiency (TOEFL 61)

Speciality

STEM-OPT for international students on F-1 visas

This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months. This OPT work authorization period may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.

The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing a degree through ASU Online.

Additional information

Program description

The BS program in chemistry with a concentration in environmental chemistry equips students with interdisciplinary knowledge, combining chemistry with environmental sciences, geology, mathematics and physics. Graduates gain a molecular perspective of the world, focusing on pollution control, energy and climate change. Students develop the expertise to address environmental challenges, making them well prepared for careers in environmental science, policy, regulation and advanced studies in chemical and environmental sciences at the graduate level.

The curriculum merges chemistry and environmental sciences courses, fostering a holistic understanding of environmental issues. It includes traditional coursework with lectures and hands-on laboratory sessions. The program emphasizes problem-solving, critical thinking and interdisciplinary competence. Students are encouraged to join laboratory research groups and faculty research projects, allowing them to engage in hands-on research and contribute to environmental solutions.

Concurrent program options

Students pursuing concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”) earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with their academic advisors, students can create their own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.

Global opportunities
Global experience 

Students who participate in Global Education programs can strengthen their understanding of environmental chemistry through hands-on experience in new and exciting environments. Programs provide students with a global perspective and knowledge in preparation for a forward-thinking career.

Career opportunities

A solid undergraduate program of education in chemistry that is obtained with this degree provides the necessary background for many career paths in chemical industries, government and other areas. This degree can be combined with law for patent work or government work, economics for sales and marketing careers, and computer science for careers in information storage and retrieval related to our planet.

Students planning to work in areas related to the environment will find the environmental chemistry concentration especially appropriate; they are also prepared for careers in environmental science, environmental monitoring, policy and regulation.