Chemistry
Program Description
What gives fireworks their color? How does a drug test work? Chemistry is the central science behind these questions and many more. The chemistry major focuses on the study and creation of materials, pharmaceuticals, biological systems, environmental systems, and industrial processes. Chemistry majors receive hands on training in sophisticated instrumentation and laboratory techniques. Students are prepared to serve in the chemical industry, pharmaceutical industry, and for medical programs through engaging laboratory experiments. The chemistry department offers student support though a mentor-ship program, supplemental instruction, problem solving and skill building workshops, opportunities for independent research study opportunities and internships.
Transfer Preparation
MSJC offers a wide range of course work that prepares students for the workforce or for transfer to four-year colleges and universities. All four-year institutions prescribe their own standards for course evaluation and admissions. Courses that fulfill major requirements for an associate degree in a program at MSJC might not be the same as those required for transfer into a similar major at a four-year university. Please meet with a Counselor to confirm transfer requirements.
Transfer students are advised to do research on prospective majors and careers. The MSJC Transfer Center and MSJC catalog can be helpful tools. Students interested in transferring to CSU’s or UC’s can access major preparation by visiting ASSIST. All students are advised to meet with a counselor at least once a semester to create or update their comprehensive education plan.
Contact Information
San Jacinto/Menifee Campus
(951) 487-MSJC (6752)/ (951) 672-6752
Dejan Stekovic
dstekovic@msjc.edu
- Demonstrate proficiency on chemistry topics from national American Chemical Society (ACS) exams. Achieve a score that is one-half of one standard deviation below the national average (or higher) on the General Chemistry or Organic Chemistry sequence exam versions, administered in CHEM 102 and CHEM 113 respectively.
- Demonstrate skill in standard laboratory techniques commonly acquired in the first two years of major's
chemistry coursework.
Discover in-demand careers and education options based on your interests! See the list of careers below or explore further by searching for Careers or Programs.
Note: There are no guaranteed positions for students completing these programs. Education and work experience required will vary by employer. The salary and benefits for specific occupations will be dependent on work experience, education, background, and employer. Labor market statistics are from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Census Bureau, O-NET, EMSI.
| Career/Industries | CA Annual Median Salary or Range | Employment Demand or Opening CA |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Engineer (B) | $105,356 | 121 |
| Chemical Technician (A, B) | $50,378 | 1,021 |
| Biochemistry, Biophysicist (B, M, D) | $126,449 | 866 |
(degree required: SM some college, C: Certificate, A: Associate degree, B: Bachelor’s degree, M: Master’s degree, D: Doctorate)