undergraduate
General chemistry
Best schools with general chemistry
What is a general chemistry major?
Chemistry programs focus on the scientific study of techniques for analyzing and describing matter, including its precise composition and the interrelationships of constituent elements and compounds. Course topics include spectroscopy, chromatography, atomic absorption, photometry, chemical modeling, mathematical analysis, laboratory analysis procedures and equipment maintenance, and applications to specific research, industrial, and health problems.
of students said hands-on experience was a highlight of this major.
of students found this major to be difficult.
of students said they were motivated to select this major because it fit their passion & interest.
of students and alumni plan on being or are currently employed in an occupation related to this major.
of students said complex concepts were a challenging aspect of the major.
How much do general chemistry majors make?
median average salary
$90,000/yr
The national average salary for general chemistry graduates in the United States is $90,000 per year. Those in the top 10 percent make over $262,000 a year, while the bottom 10 percent make under $30,000 a year. While salary ranges can vary by role, industry, and location, general chemistry graduates typically make between $53,000 and $150,000 per year.
How popular is general chemistry as a major?
Each year, around 15,500 students obtain a bachelor’s degree and around 1,070 students obtain an associate degree in general chemistry. In 2021, 14,983 students received a bachelor's degree and 1,178 students received an associate degree. This is 3% fewer general chemistry majors than there were in 2020. General chemistry is one of the most popular majors within chemistry.
Advice from general chemistry majors
Share your experienceKeep on top of all assignments. Its very easy to get behind in this major do to all the assignments and labs you have to do
Really think about what it is that you want to do after graduation. There are a lot of jobs but many require working in a chemical town, having poor pay, or working for an oil company.
I would definitely review science and math courses because Chemistry is extremely math-dependent, althroughout, starting from even the prerequisites.
Prepare to read a lot of information either taking an online or in-person class, this goes for labs which one of the main focuses in a chemistry class. Some subjects are easy to understand but half is math which is the most difficult part in the class. At times it can feel less engaging or even boring but it comes around for the labs and info that can a lot of the engagement. It depends on the professor and what they offer or if they are engaging with their students. Best to look on that as well.
