The School of Chemistry and Biochemistry has vibrant programs of study leading to a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry or a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry. The flexibility of each curriculum allows students to study fundamental areas of chemistry or biochemistry while tailoring their degree with technical and free electives to produce a well-rounded experience in preparation for a variety of career opportunities. Students may pursue tailored tracks toward the B.S. in chemistry, including those allowing specialization in biochemistry, business, polymers, and materials options. In comparison, the B.S. in biochemistry offers students the opportunity to complete a significant amount of coursework and training in the biological sciences. In addition to coursework requirements, students in the program participate in a variety of experiential programs, including undergraduate research, cooperative work, study abroad, undergraduate internship, and undergraduate teaching assistance. Faculty in the school are committed to undergraduate education, and several have won awards for excellence in teaching. With a faculty to student ratio of approximately 1:9, the school prides itself on the close contact that it maintains with its undergraduate students. The high quality of the curriculum and faculty is part of the reason chemistry graduates receive job offers at the highest salary levels for B.S. chemists and biochemists. Graduates of either bachelor's program pursue careers in such diverse field as forensics, nanoscience, biotechnology, or pharmaceuticals in industry or governmental organizations, or they may continue their education in the chemical or biological sciences or in medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, and law. Chemistry, especially with the biochemistry option (or the stand-alone Biochemistry B.S. degree) is a superb preparation for medical school. The B.S. in Chemistry (all tracks) is certified by the American Chemical Society (ACS). The B.S. in Biochemistry is recommended by the American Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.

Holding a Degree in Chemistry and Biochemistry opens up a wide spectrum of career opportunities. Obviously they are a requirement for entry into technical areas of industries one normally associates with these disciplines: healthcare, pharmaceuticals, materials/polymers, biotechnology and personal care products. While there is great demand for individuals with these skill sets for the generation, formulation, analysis and testing of new agents in all these industries, one is not by any means “tied to the bench” by degree. Chemists and biochemists staff positions that run the gamut of alternatives from management to sales. Because these degrees are technically and intellectually demanding and are focused on training in discovery and problem solving, they are of appreciable value in many “non-traditional” settings, such as business, consulting, law and marketing. While industry employs the vast majority of degree-bearing chemists, opportunities in education span from teaching at the elementary level to college and research intensive universities such as Georgia Tech.