Chemistry at Clemson
Clemson · B.A. / B.S.
Chemistry
- Degree
- B.A. / B.S.
- College / unit
- College of Science
- Locations
- Clemson, South Carolina
- Requirements updated
- 2026–27
About this major
Chemistry studies matter, molecular structure, reactions, and the methods used to measure chemical behavior. Students combine theory with laboratory work in analytical, organic, inorganic, physical, and biological chemistry. Clemson offers B.A. and B.S. paths with different levels of specialization and complementary study. Laboratory practice develops careful measurement and scientific judgment.
Clemson program overview (opens in a new tab)Decision snapshot
At a Glance: National Evidence
National evidence for related fields and occupations. It describes groups, not what will happen to one student.
View degree options
Most common positions
- Chemist or materials scientistStudies substances and how materials behave. Bachelor's typical. Opens an occupation profile in a new tab.
- Physical scientistInvestigates physical systems through research. Advanced study common. Opens an occupation profile in a new tab.
- PhysicianDiagnoses and treats illness. Doctoral degree with residency and licensure. Opens an occupation profile in a new tab.
National pay
$50,000
Median for full-time U.S. graduates ages 22–27 · 2024
New York Fed category: Chemistry
Generalized outcomes
- Unemployment
- 4.3%
- Underemployment
- 42.8%
- With a graduate degree
- 67.5%
Related Clemson majors
Clemson decision guide
Before You Choose
What studying it feels like
You’ll spend substantial time measuring what happened rather than guessing why. Laboratory work and quantitative analysis train you to connect molecular behavior with evidence you can defend clearly.
One thing to know
A bachelor’s can support laboratory and quality roles. Research-centered chemistry careers often become more specialized through graduate study over time.
Ask yourself
- 1Do you like precise laboratory work and quantitative explanations?
- 2Would you prefer an applied laboratory role or research specialization?
Longer-term context
$86,000
National median for U.S. graduates ages 35–45 · 2024
Chemistry. Group evidence, not a prediction for one student.
Pay source (opens in a new tab)Career preparation
Laboratory roles can begin with a bachelor’s degree, though advanced study is common. Physicians must complete medical school and residency before licensure.
Clemson guide sources
Sources & How to Read This Guide
- Clemson undergraduate program inventory and degree requirements Opens in a new tab.
- Labor market outcomes by college major Opens in a new tab.
- ACS PUMS field-of-degree and occupation files, 2018–2024 Opens in a new tab.
- CIP-to-occupation crosswalk and occupation profiles Opens in a new tab.
Most common positions use Census weights in pooled 2018–2024 ACS PUMS data, excluding 2020. The sample covers employed degree holders ages 22–35 who weren’t enrolled. This guide uses Chemistry (FOD 5003; unweighted n=6,895; direct field match). These are national patterns, not Clemson outcomes.
Chemistry, General (CIP 40.0501) is compared with the New York Fed category Chemistry. National evidence describes groups and is not a prediction for one student. Future of STEM is independent and is not endorsed by Clemson University.