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Governors State University

University Park , Illinois ,United States

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry

The study of chemistry allows us to understand the world around us—it is known as the central science that connects all others. Governors State’s Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, approved by the American Chemical Society, equips students with foundational knowledge in the concepts of analytical, biochemical, inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry.

All qualified graduates will receive certification from the American Chemical Society. Students qualify for certification by completing the program's degree requirements, including at least 6 semester hours of advanced courses and 500 laboratory hours.

Turn your passion for science into a career with Governors State University. Pursue a career as a chemist or take the next step toward a career in medicine with our chemistry degree program. Explore the program requirements, job prospects, and unique features of our program to see if it’s time to study in Chicago’s Southland. Join a tight-knit community of students and faculty eager to expand their knowledge in the sciences.
Chemistry is an exciting blend of theoretical principles, hands-on laboratory experience, and real-world applications. The chemistry courses you take at GSU provide a foundation for further knowledge in chemistry, biology or medical fields.

Courses in the sciences give you the knowledge, confidence, and skills you need for a range of positions. If you’re passionate about education, studying complex systems, or discovering new knowledge in the sciences, a BS in chemistry is the first step in your career.

You may not be ready to fully commit to a single career. Because of the diverse nature of careers in the sciences, a BS in chemistry is general in nature. Use these building blocks to start a career immediately or develop your passions and specialization further with a Master of Science or Ph.D. program. Our advisors can assist you in navigating the field and find an area of study and professional role you’re passionate about.

Combine courses in chemistry with biology, mathematics, engineering, and other fields to prepare for your new career. A major in chemistry pairs well with a minor or double major in one of these fields. As you start your course, ask about the steps required to apply for medical school or a master’s program in chemistry.

All qualified graduates will receive certification from the American Chemical Society. Students qualify for certification by completing the program's degree requirements, including at least six semester hours of advanced courses and 500 laboratory hours.

Intakes

  • Jan
  • May
  • Aug

Application Processing Time in Days: 30

Minimum English Language Requirements

English Level Description IELTS (1.0 -9.0) TOEFL IBT (0-120) TOEFL CBT (0-300) PTE (10-90)
Expert 9 120 297-300 86-90
Very Good 8.5 115-119 280-293 83-86
Very Good 8 110-114 270-280 79-83
Good 7.5 102-109 253-267 73-79
Good 7 94-101 240-253 65-73
Competent 6.5 79-93 213-233 58-65
Competent 6 60-78 170-210 50-58
Modest 5.5 46-59 133-210 43-50
Modest 5 35-45 107-133 36-43
Limited 4 32-34 97-103 30-36
Extremely Limited < 4 < 31 < 93 < 30

Job Opportunity Potential

Job Opportunity Potential at Governors State University (GSU)

Chicago Proximity – Located near Chicago, a major hub for business, technology, healthcare, and logistics.

STEM & Business Careers – Strong demand for graduates in Computer Science, Information Technology, Data Analytics, and Business (MBA, Accounting, Finance).

Healthcare Pathways – GSU is well-known for Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Health Administration, with excellent placement in hospitals and clinics.

Internships & Co-ops – Access to internships with Fortune 500 companies and Chicago-based firms in finance, consulting, tech, and manufacturing.

OPT & STEM OPT – Eligible programs provide up to 3 years of work authorization in the U.S. after graduation.

Teaching & Counseling – Education, Social Work, and Counseling programs prepare students for careers in schools, universities, and community organizations.

Government & Non-profit Careers – Public Administration and Leadership graduates often find roles in policy, community development, and NGOs.

Entrepreneurship Support – GSU’s Small Business Development Center helps students start and grow businesses.

Networking – Strong alumni network and career fairs connect students with employers in Illinois and nationwide.

On-Campus Jobs – Opportunities to work up to 20 hours per week while studying.

PSW Opportunity

Post-Study Work visa or permit, allowing international students on F-1 visas to work in the US after completing their studies, typically through Optional Practical Training (OPT).

Eligibility:
To be eligible for OPT, students must have been enrolled full-time in a US educational institution for at least one academic year and be seeking work related to their major.

Duration:
Students can apply for up to 12 months of OPT, either before they finish their studies (pre-completion) or after graduation (post-completion).

STEM OPT:
Students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields can apply for an extended OPT period of up to 24 months.

Contact our PSA counselor for more information

Admission Requirement / Eligibility Criteria

Official high school transcripts.

Minimum unweighted high school GPA ~ 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. 

ACT or SAT are optional; only taken if you want them considered. 

If you studied in a non-English speaking country, you need credential evaluation by a NACES-member agency. 

English / IELTS & Other Language Proficiency Requirements

  • If your previous education was in a country where English is not the foundational language, you must show English proficiency using one of these: TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or equivalent test. 
  • Minimum IELTS (Academic) score generally required is 6.0 for both undergrad and graduate admissions. 
  • For TOEFL, minimum overall score for graduate applicants is 80 (internet-based). 
  • For undergraduates, a lower TOEFL minimum is possible (e.g. 68 IBT) or similar, depending on program. 
  • If you don’t meet the required English test scores, GSU offers an Intensive ESL Program as conditional admission / to improve your English before you start academic classes.