Buffalo State chemistry students are prepared for careers in the pharmaceutical industry, quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC), health fields, medicinal plant sciences, and emerging areas like energy and environmental science.
Our bachelor of science in chemistry is approved by the American Chemical Society (ACS) and provides strong scientific knowledge and practical skills for work in industrial and government laboratories, as well as preparation for graduate study.
Students can tailor their studies through electives such as analytical toxicology and medicinal chemistry. Hands-on learning includes research assistantships and independent projects with faculty mentors. Students may earn awards and scholarships and gain experience through summer research programs, internships, and off-campus opportunities, enhancing their readiness for future careers
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Who Hires Our Students?
5%
Expected job growth rate through 2034
$86,620
Median salary for Chemists and Materials Scientists
20+
Awards to deserving students every year
Hands-on research opportunities
Students benefit from hands-on learning opportunities through roles as research assistants and independent study projects conducted under the mentorship of faculty members. High-achieving students are recognized through departmental and college-level awards and scholarships.
In addition, students can participate in summer undergraduate research fellowship programs on campus. Many also gain valuable experience through off-campus research opportunities and internships, further strengthening their preparation for future careers.
Chemistry plays a vital role across the pharmaceutical, chemical, environmental, manufacturing, and medical industries. Graduates of our program are well prepared to pursue entry-level positions in industrial and governmental laboratories or to continue their education in specialized graduate programs.
A strong foundation in chemistry opens the door to a wide range of professional careers, including:
Pharmaceutical and Chemical Industry
- Process Chemist
- Industrial Chemist
- Product Testing Specialist
- Quality Assurance Specialist
- Natural Products/Medicinal Plant Chemist
Environmental and Sustainability Careers
- Environmental Chemist
- Conservationist
- Groundwater Technician
Regulatory and Public Service
- Drug Regulator
- Public Health Specialist
Preparation for Graduate and Professional Programs
- Chemistry (M.S. and Ph.D.)
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
- Environmental Science
- Medicine and other Health Professions
Our recent graduates have been employed by various industry sectors such as Fresenius Kabi, Materion Corporation, Honeywell, Avon, and Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. Our undergraduate students have also been accepted into leading graduate programs, including the University at Buffalo, University of Rochester, University of Chicago, Cornell University, University of California, Berkeley, University of Pittsburgh, University of Wisconsin, University of Maryland, and Texas A&M University.
Students in the Chemistry Department are encouraged to engage in a variety of extracurricular and professional development opportunities:
Student Organizations and Honor Societies
- Phi Lambda Upsilon : A national honor society recognizing academic achievement in chemistry.
- Iota Sigma Pi: A national honor society that supports and recognizes women in chemistry.
Student Clubs and Activities
Chemistry and Forensics Club: Open to all students interested in chemistry and forensic science. The club organizes hands-on activities, guest speakers, and events both on and off campus.
Professional Engagement
Students are encouraged to participate in professional organizations such as the American Chemical Society (ACS) and attend regional or national meetings when possible.
Scholarships and Awards
Chemistry majors may apply for department-specific awards such as the Millacci-Brock Scholarship, as well as a range of university-wide scholarship opportunities.
Students in our program have opportunities to engage in faculty-mentored research as research assistants or through independent study, developing hands-on skills in modern chemical techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication. Buffalo State supports undergraduate research through institutional funding and the Undergraduate Research Office, which promotes student research across disciplines and supports participation in the annual Student Research and Creativity Conference, as well as Undergraduate Summer Research Fellowships that provide funded research experiences.
Students are also encouraged to pursue internships prior to graduation, gaining valuable real-world experience in industrial, environmental, pharmaceutical, and analytical laboratories.