Emory University

Programme overview

The Bachelor of Chemistry at Emory University (offered through Emory College of Arts and Sciences) provides a broad and flexible chemistry education grounded in both theory and laboratory practice. Students develop core chemical knowledge across subdisciplines while pursuing elective work in areas such as optics, quantum chemistry and computational methods. The programme emphasises undergraduate research, advanced instrumental training and collaborative problem-solving within a small-class liberal arts environment.

What you'll study

Coursework combines foundational courses with advanced electives and substantial laboratory experience. Typical topics and modules include:

• General and inorganic chemistry: atomic and molecular structure, bonding, periodic trends and coordination chemistry.
• Organic chemistry: structure, mechanism, synthesis and spectroscopic characterisation of carbon-containing compounds.
• Physical chemistry: thermodynamics, kinetics and statistical mechanics, with courses that introduce quantum chemistry principles applied to chemical systems.
• Optics and quantum chemistry: modules covering quantum mechanics for chemists, spectroscopy (UV–Vis, IR, Raman), molecular orbital theory, laser spectroscopy and experimental optics techniques relevant to molecular and materials investigations.
• Analytical and instrumental methods: chromatographic and spectrometric techniques, instrumental analysis and laboratory courses focused on data quality and method development.
• Biochemistry and materials chemistry: the chemical basis of biological processes and the design and characterisation of functional materials and nanostructures.
• Computational chemistry: numerical methods, molecular modelling and simulation used to interpret electronic structure and spectroscopic properties.
• Capstone and research: independent research projects, senior thesis or extended laboratory projects supervised by faculty, often using advanced instruments such as NMR, X-ray diffractometers, ultrafast lasers and cryogenic measurement setups.

Entry requirements

Admission is through Emory's general undergraduate admissions process. Successful applicants typically present a high school diploma (or equivalent) with strong preparation in mathematics (calculus or precalculus), chemistry and physics where available. Competitive candidates demonstrate high academic achievement, letters of recommendation, a personal statement that articulates interest in chemistry and research, and extracurricular engagement in science. Emory operates a holistic review; applicants should consult the university for specific guidance about test-score policies and transfer credit for AP, IB or other college-level coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates are well positioned for multiple career paths. Common trajectories include:

• Graduate study in chemistry, physical chemistry, materials science, optics or related disciplines leading to research careers in academia or industry.
• Employment in pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, chemical manufacturing, materials and nanotechnology firms, or companies developing optical and photonic devices.
• Roles in instrumental analysis, quality control, process development, and analytical laboratories.
• Technical positions in national laboratories, government research agencies or healthcare-related industries; plus opportunities in science policy, patent law (with further legal training), and data science.

Why study at Emory University

Emory combines a liberal arts atmosphere with research-active faculty and modern laboratory facilities, enabling undergraduates to engage in meaningful research from early in their programme. Located in Atlanta, the university offers collaboration opportunities with nearby research institutions and industry partners. Chemistry students benefit from small class sizes, close faculty mentorship, structured research pathways and access to specialised instrumentation and interdisciplinary centres that support work in optics, quantum chemistry and related areas.