The chemistry curriculum is designed for students seeking a liberal education as well as for those students requiring more specialized training and skills. The courses provide the foundation necessary for those planning careers as chemists and biochemists following graduation, for students planning to further their education through advanced degrees in chemistry, biochemistry, related sciences, and for those in other professional fields. Two basic curricula are offered for chemistry majors:

The American Chemical Society certified degree program in Chemistry is available for those students seeking technical positions in chemistry, as well as for those planning to attend graduate school, or

A Biochemistry Option track is available for students strongly interested in the interface of chemistry and biomedical or biological sciences, especially for students anticipating going to graduate school in medical sciences, biochemistry, biophysics, or other life sciences.

Students pursuing a degree in Chemistry also must have a minor in another discipline. All first-time freshmen must successfully complete CAS 100: First Year Experience as a degree requirement. Students must enroll during their first term at USA, except for summer-entry students who must enroll in the fall semester following entry. CH 150 will fulfill the technology proficiency requirement.