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Northern Illinois University

Chemistry & Biochemistry

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Undergraduate Programs

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers a program leading to the B.S. degree with a major in chemistry and a choice of five emphases, each of which requires courses in calculus, physics, and certain core courses in chemistry.

  • Emphases 1 (chemistry)* and 5 (biochemistry)* are intended for students planning to pursue advanced degrees in chemistry or biochemistry, or who are planning careers as professional chemists or biochemists. Also, with the proper electives, either emphasis 1 or 5 would be appropriate for students interested in forensic science.
  • Emphases 2 (secondary teaching) and 3 (general science teaching) are designed to prepare students for careers in teaching at the junior and senior high school levels. See teacher certification - chemistry.
  • Emphasis 4 (chemistry for pre-professional students) is designed for students intending to use training in chemistry as a preparation for professional school.

*Certified by the American Chemical Society.

An honors program is available for outstanding students.

The department also offers a minor in chemistry as well as several courses which can be used by non-majors toward fulfilling the science area requirement in the university’s general education program.

Chemistry Placement Examination Policy

Students planning to take CHEM 210T must take the Chemistry Placement Examination, so they may begin their study of chemistry at the appropriate level.  See NIU Testing Services for additional information, including the current testing schedule.

Request Information

To request additional information about our undergraduate programs, please complete this form.   If you wish to schedule an appointment for advising with Professor Carnahan or Professor Ballantine, you may contact the main office at (815) 753-1131.


Jon W. Carnahan, Professor and Chair

Jon W. Carnahan
Professor and Chair
Office: Faraday 319
Phone: (815) 753-1181
carnahan@niu.edu








David S. Ballantine, Associate Professor

David S. Ballantine
Associate Professor
Office: Faraday West 424
Phone: (815) 753-6857
dballant@niu.edu