Chemistry at Purdue University has a ratio of 1 faculty member for every 8 undergraduates, which allows students to enjoy a great deal of individualized attention. It also offers opportunities for mentoring programs and cutting-edge undergraduate research in a wide range of fields from drug discovery to climate change. Chemistry majors can pursue one of two degrees: bachelor of science in chemistry, accredited by the American Chemical Society (ACS); or the more flexible bachelor of science with chemistry as a field of study, which allows for specializations in ACS-accredited biochemistry or chemistry education. The B.S. program with chemistry as a field of study is designed for those who want less specialized training in chemistry than is required for the B.S. in chemistry (ACS) degree. Free electives allow a student to build a program of study in another area to complement a chemistry background. It is possible, for example, to concentrate elective credit hours in one of the following areas: administration, biochemistry, chemical literature, chemical physics, computer applications in chemistry, cosmochemistry, geochemistry, patent law, and preprofessional. There is also the opportunity to complete in five years a dual degree with chemical engineering or material science engineering, after acceptance into the College of Engineering.

Careers in Chemistry Many graduates work in research and development in a wide variety of fields, while others choose jobs such as lab supervisor, pharmaceutical sales, analytical services, or quality control. Students also learn communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills as well as the technical skills necessary for careers in biotechnology, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries.