Undergraduate Studies in Chemistry
The Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology offers two routes to the AB degree. The standard major provides a comprehensive background for those who plan to go to graduate school in chemistry or a related molecular science. The alternative major is a flexible program with a core of chemistry courses and lots of room for a personalized plan of study including other areas of interest, such as biology, computer science, economics or government. Students pursuing the alternative major may prepare for careers in areas such as journalism, law, government or business administration. Both programs are designed to train students in logical thinking and creative problem solving.
More than half of our chemistry majors pursue graduate study in the sciences, including medicine. Others go to graduate or professional school in other fields, while some go directly into positions with chemical and pharmaceutical companies.
Chemistry majors who wish to become secondary school teachers participate in the five-year certification program for teachers of secondary school science (grades 7-12). Students in the program integrate coursework in education with the rest of their undergraduate studies. Application to the program is made during the sophomore year. Following the fifth year, students are eligible for a master's degree from Cornell and a teaching certificate from New York State.
Contact Information
Office of Undergraduate Studies
Dept. of Chemistry and Chemical Biology
Cornell University
131 Baker Laboratory
Ithaca, NY 14853-1301
607-255-5287
Hours: M-F 8am-4:30pm
Graduate and Undergraduate Administrator
Patricia Hine
pah3@cornell.edu
607-255-5287
Undergraduate Coordinator
Christine Ward
cmz32@cornell.edu
607-255-5287
Director of Undergraduate Studies
Roger Loring
roger.loring@cornell.edu
Director of Undergraduate Advising
Thomas R. Ruttledge
ruttledge@cornell.edu
- General and specific advising questions about the chemistry major
- Chemistry career advising
- Chemistry advising and orientation programs
Careers for Chemists
Alumni Career programs are held in the department each fall, which will help you with job searches and provide information on graduate schools. You can also check out these resources: