Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry

In today's competitive job market, a college education has become even more imperative when trying to obtain employment when out of school. Besides looking good on a resume, a bachelor's degree provides a student a well-rounded education that can open avenues to more career options, job opportunities, and advancements once you get into the workforce. A bachelor's degree can also help an individual earn significantly more money than someone with only a high school diploma or associate's degree. Individuals 25 and older who possess a bachelor's degree and work fulltime earned an average of 62% more than individuals with only a high school diploma, according to figure released by the U.S. Census Bureau in 2006.

Deciding what type of bachelor’s degree to obtain can be one of the most important decisions a student can make. Not all degrees provide a student the same opportunities when entering the job market. A bachelor’s degree in chemistry provides a student with the needed background to obtain a job working for a major chemical company, a career in teaching, or a career working for the federal government. Studies show that an individual with a degree in chemistry or physics will earn an average of 30 percent more in their lifetime than someone without a degree, and at least 12 percent more than graduates in such liberal arts fields as psychology, English and history.

Obtaining a degree in chemistry requires that a student complete their degree requirements either by attending one institution for the duration of the degree process or multiple schools until all needed credits have been obtained. Students can attend:

  • Community Colleges
  • State Universities
  • Private Colleges or Universities
  • Online Degree Programs

A student must determine which type of school best fits their educational needs.

Community College Options for Obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry

While students cannot get a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from a community college, students can complete most of their prerequisites required to obtain their associates degree at one. Community colleges also offer tuition rates much lower than those of most four-year colleges, and can be a great way to save money while in school. Community colleges also cater to many non-traditional students, and tend to have more night and weekend classes.

State and Private University Options for Obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry

Students can obtain their bachelor’s in chemistry from a four-year state or private university. State universities tend to be cheaper, especially for students who live instate, than most private colleges or universities. While most state colleges provide students with an excellent education that is on par with a private institution, the name recognition offered by a prestigious private school can help increase a student’s job prospects after leaving school.

Online Options for Obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry

Online degree programs are perfect for students who can’t attend a brick and mortar school because of time restraints, work, or family. While online programs do afford students a lot of flexibility, they do lack some of the hands on teaching that comes with a regular classroom setting.

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