Chemistry involves understanding the structure and reactivity of matter from atomic- and molecular-level perspective. Degrees in Chemistry involve training in analytical, inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry. Elective courses are also available, allowing students to pursue interests in materials, analytical, biological, synthetic, and other advanced areas of chemistry. The University of Washington offers three majors in Chemistry: a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, and Bachelor of Science with ACS Certification.
BA in Chemistry
The Bachelor of Arts degree is designed for students whose career and academic interests require a strong background in Chemistry but are also interested in acquiring expertise in other disciplines. The coursework for this degree provides a general background and does not include extensive advanced laboratory training. The degree is appropriate for students interested in applying to professional programs in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy and other health allied fields or who are interested in non-scientific career in the sciences.
BS in Chemistry
The Bachelor of Science degree is designed for students interested in an in-depth preparation, including advanced lab work. This degree is an excellent preparation for students interested in pursuing Chemistry and Biochemistry as a career. It also serves as preparation for students applying to professional programs in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy and other health-allied fields. Please note that there are two major pathways to select between: the BS in Chemistry and the BS in Chemistry with ACS certification.
Admission requirements for the Chemistry majors:
- Minimum 2.00 cumulative UW GPA*
- Minimum course requirements:
- General Chemistry: one of the following options: (1) CHEM 142, CHEM 152, CHEM 162; (2) CHEM 143, CHEM 153; (3) CHEM 145, CHEM 155, CHEM 165
- Physics: one of the following options: (1) PHYS 114, PHYS 115; (2) PHYS 121, PHYS 122 (recommended); (3) PHYS 141, PHYS 142
- Mathematics: one of the following options: (1) MATH 124, MATH 125; (2) MATH 134, MATH 135
- Grade requirements: Minimum 2.0 grade for each course required for admission; minimum 2.50 cumulative GPA in courses required for admission
*Incoming UW students who declare in their first matriculated quarter are exempt from admission requirement #1.
Declaring a Chemistry major
If you have met the minimum requirements and are able to complete this major within the 210-credit rule please complete the Chemistry Major Declaration Form - Winter 2026
This form is not an application, and the form will not automatically place you into the major. Once we have received your form submission, we will review it as follows:
- Students in pre-major status who meet the minimum requirements will be coded to enter the major
- Students who want to declare chemistry as a double major or who want to change their current major to chemistry will require authorization by their current major adviser. Please make your current adviser aware that we will be reaching out to them about this change.
- Students pursuing a double major or double degree will be asked to provide a course plan for graduation. Please make sure that your MyPlan is up to date.
Students who submit this form but do not meet the minimum requirements or satisfactory progress requirements will be contacted by a chemistry adviser.