Chemistry at Erskine
Erskine has a long tradition of excellence in chemistry. In the program, you will learn from dedicated faculty and enjoy access to the Daniel•Moultrie Science Center, including laboratory, instructional, and research areas.
Our students have participated in research, both at Erskine and at other institutions, and many have continued their education in medical school and other advanced degree programs.
I have always been interested in how the world works at the molecular level, and chemistry is the perfect discipline to explore this. I chose this college because of its strong reputation for academic excellence in my field of study. When I visited the campus, I was impressed by the state-of-the-art facilities and the diverse student body. I also have the opportunity here at Erskine College to participate in a summer research program, where I will be working on a project related to chemistry.
– Harvee Patel, Chemistry major, class of 2026
Degree Details: Earn a B.S. or B.A. in Chemistry
You can choose between two tracks within the major, depending on your educational and career interests.
- The B.S. prepares you for graduate work in M.S. and Ph.D. programs, or for a career as an industrial or governmental chemist. You can further specialize the B.S. degree through a biochemistry or environmental emphasis.
- The B.A. degree is primarily designed to provide a chemistry foundation for students with a primary B.S. degree in another field. You may also choose to complete a B.A. in Chemistry with an emphasis in biochemistry.
Through your studies, you will build both technical skills and scientific knowledge that will prepare you for future studies and careers.
Enhanced LIFE Scholarship, Palmetto Fellows Scholarship
The South Carolina General Assembly has passed legislation that enhances the value of LIFE and Palmetto Fellows awards for students majoring in math, science, and education disciplines. The Erskine-approved majors for Palmetto Fellows and Life Scholarship Enhancements are Biology, Chemistry, Education, and Mathematics.
Palmetto Fellows Enhancement – in addition to the base Palmetto Fellows requirements: Recipients with at least 30 hours, and who, as freshmen, earned 14 hours of approved math or science and who are math or science majors will receive an additional amount of up to $2,500 for a maximum Palmetto Fellows Scholarship of $10,000. Freshmen are not eligible for the Palmetto Fellows Enhancement.
LIFE Scholarship Enhancement – in addition to the base LIFE Scholarship requirements: Recipients with over 30 hours, and who, as freshmen, earned 14 hours of approved math or science and who are math or science majors will receive an additional amount of up to $2,500 for a maximum LIFE Scholarship of $7,500. Freshmen are not eligible for the LIFE Scholarship enhancement.
NOTE: In addition to defining eligible majors, individual courses must be identified that meet the 14 hours of math or science during the freshman year requirement. Please note that current interpretation of the new legislation precludes students from ever becoming eligible for the enhancements if the 14-hour requirement is not met by the end of freshman year. AP credits and dual enrollment courses (college credit courses taken while still in high school) can satisfy the 14-hour rule.
More Info
Erskine College Admissions
Learn about the application process or get in touch with the Admissions Office.
Career Info
“Careers & the Chemical Sciences,” ACS. https://www.acs.org/careers/chemical-sciences.html
“Chemists and Materials Scientists,” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/chemists-and-materials-scientists.htm
“Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2021: 19-2031,” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes192031.htm
