What is Chemistry?

A major in chemistry explores how substances are made, how they interact, and how they transform into something new. Often called the central science, chemistry connects biology, medicine, engineering, agriculture, and environmental science. You'll build skills in problem-solving, data analysis, and scientific reasoning, while gaining hands-on research experience early. Graduates pursue chemistry jobs in healthcare, business, education, policy, and industry — or continue to graduate and professional programs. LSU offers concentrations in Chemistry, Biological Chemistry, Chemical Physics, Forensic Chemistry, Polymers, Environmental Chemistry, Chemistry & Second Discipline, Secondary Education, Pre-Health, and Business.

Program Highlights
Undergraduate Research Begin faculty-mentored research as early as your first year through LSU Discover. Gain hands-on lab experience with nationally recognized researchers and present findings at professional conferences.
Science Residential College Live and learn with your peers in a smaller network within the larger campus, offering academic enhancement programs, classes in your residence hall, and corporate sponsored events introducing you to internships and cooperative education programs.
Personalized Pathways With options to pursue a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in chemistry and several concentrations, customize your chemistry education to support a career in science, healthcare, policy, business, education, med school, or pharmacy school.
GeauxTeach STEM Earn a secondary teaching certification at the same time as your chemistry degree for no additional hours, including an introductory course that helps you discover if you have a passion for teaching.

What You Can Do

An LSU degree opens doors to a wide range of career paths and professional opportunities. With a strong academic foundation, real-world learning, and support from a powerful alumni network, you’ll graduate prepared for success in today’s competitive job market. Whether you’re planning to work in a corporate setting, nonprofit organization, government agency, creative industry, or research lab, LSU equips you with the in-demand skills and hands-on experience employers value most.

Potential Careers

Analytical Chemist 
Biochemist
Chemical Engineer
Forensic Scientist
Quality Control Specialist
Food/Agricultural Specialist
Educator
Pharmaceutical/Laboratory Professional
Chemical Industry Specialist
Science Policy/Regulatory Analyst

Workplace Settings

Research & Testing Laboratories
Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Companies
Food, Agriculture & Environmental Organizations
Healthcare & Clinical Laboratories
Government Agencies & Regulatory Offices
Manufacturing & Quality Assurance Facilities
Educational Institutions
Consulting & Science-based Firms

Building Skills
Scientific Research & Discovery Design experiments, analyze results, and interpret data to understand chemical behavior.
Applied Problem-Solving Use chemistry to solve real-world challenges in energy, medicine, and the environment.
Computational & Technical Tools Model molecules, analyze data, and use digital lab technology to study chemical systems.
Professional Communication & Collaboration Presenting scientific findings clearly while working effectively in research teams.
Advance your Career
Post-graduate education
LSU offers competitively ranked post-graduate programs designed to help you innovate and lead in your field. Engage in advanced coursework, contribute to impactful research, and learn from expert faculty who are solving real-world challenges across Louisiana and beyond. Whether you're looking to deepen your expertise, pivot into a new industry, or accelerate your career, LSU’s graduate programs open the door to a world of opportunity.
Apply Today!