The undergraduate major in chemistry grounds students in the fundamentals of modern chemistry and provides exposure to cutting-edge research and contemporary instrumentation in the field. The core coursework introduces the disciplines of organic, analytical, inorganic, biological, and physical chemistry, supported by a variety of practical experimental experiences in the laboratory. After successfully completing their core coursework, students delve deeper into a concentration of their choice and are strongly encouraged to participate in original research. The chemistry major at Vanderbilt University meets the American Chemical Society's guidelines for approved programs of study in chemistry.

A variety of career paths have been pursued by our students, including teaching, chemical and pharmaceutical manufacturing and sales, chemical research and development, and graduate education in chemistry and chemical biology. Other career paths can be found in government and regulatory agencies including forensic chemistry laboratories, the military, and national laboratories. Chemistry provides a useful background for technical writing, consulting, public analysts, and patent law. Finally, chemistry provides an excellent background for careers in medicine and other health-related professions