Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry (Pre-Osteopathy)

Bachelor's

Hours: 120 On-Campus

About

The Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry (Pre-Osteopathy) program at Fort Hays State University offers a comprehensive foundation in chemistry, biology, physics, and psychology, all critical for admission to osteopathic medical schools. The curriculum features a rigorous core of chemistry courses, supported by related classes in mathematics and science, ensuring students acquire the well-rounded background necessary for medical school preparation.

Beyond the required science courses, the program provides flexibility through elective options in non-STEM fields, allowing students to customize their education according to their personal interests. It emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical laboratory skills, with particular attention to chemical safety.

Why pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry (Pre-Osteopathy) at Fort Hays State University?

Faculty have carefully designed the program to fulfill the prerequisites required by osteopathic medical schools nationwide, while also allowing students to pursue electives in non-STEM disciplines.

The program distinguishes itself through a strong emphasis on hands-on laboratory experience and chemical safety. Students gain access to state-of-the-art facilities and receive guidance from faculty members who are actively engaged in developing and enhancing laboratory experiments, ensuring a high-quality, practical learning experience.

Who is this program for?

This program’s comprehensive curriculum makes it an excellent option for a diverse group of students with varying academic and professional goals. Whether pursuing admission to medical school or exploring alternative careers in the health sciences, students gain the foundational knowledge and practical skills essential for success. The program is particularly well-suited for students who:

Have a strong interest in chemistry and health sciences
Plan to apply to osteopathic medical schools
Looking to explore a variety of career paths in health-related fields
Seek a program that offers both rigorous science coursework and the flexibility to explore non-STEM electives
Looking to gain hands-on laboratory experience and participate in undergraduate research
Value a program that emphasizes chemical safety and the practical application of chemistry in real-world scenarios

Real-World Applications

The curriculum emphasizes laboratory work and chemical safety, providing students with hands-on experience directly applicable to careers in osteopathy and other health-related fields. The program also prepares students for roles in research and development, where a strong understanding of chemical processes is essential.

In addition, the program incorporates participation in professional conferences and research presentations, offering students the opportunity to engage with the broader scientific community. These experiences strengthen communication skills and provide valuable networking opportunities that can support future career advancement.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The B.A. in Chemistry (Pre-Osteopathy) program introduces students to advanced chemical instrumentation, analytical techniques, and industry-relevant software, which is essential for today’s medical and scientific careers. Alongside technological training, the program places a strong emphasis on digital literacy and the effective use of industry-standard tools. By integrating these elements into the curriculum, this ensures that graduates are well-prepared to thrive in a rapidly evolving professional landscape.

Hands-on Activities

Students gain hands-on experience through rigorous laboratory experiments, applying theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios. This program also features a capstone seminar and opportunities for undergraduate research, enabling students to explore specific areas of interest in greater depth.

Students are encouraged to present their research at professional conferences, providing valuable experience in scientific communication. These activities deepen their understanding of chemistry and prepare them for the collaborative and communicative demands of their future careers.

What You’ll Learn:

Mastery of core chemistry concepts
Preparation for osteopathic medical schools
Advanced knowledge in biochemistry and organic chemistry
Understanding of chemical safety regulations
Skills in scientific research and communication

How You’ll Learn:

Rigorous lab-based courses with hands-on experiments
Opportunities to present research at professional conferences
Customizable course selection to fit career goals
Small class sizes with individualized attention
Emphasis on soft skills development across the curriculum

Courses

The curriculum provides students with a solid foundation in chemical principles, thoroughly preparing them for the rigorous academic demands of medical school. In addition to the core chemistry courses, students complete cognate coursework in biology, physics, and mathematics—disciplines essential for a well-rounded understanding of the sciences.

The program also offers flexibility through elective courses, allowing students to customize their education based on individual interests and career goals. These electives may be taken in non-STEM fields, supporting a broader, interdisciplinary education that extends beyond the traditional scope of a chemistry degree.

CHEM 120/120L: University Chemistry I/Laboratory

University Chemistry I is the first course in a two-semester sequence, which serves as an introduction to chemistry for science majors and pre-engineering, pre-veterinary, pre-pharmacy, and pre-medical science students.

CHEM 340/340L: Organic Chemistry I/Laboratory

This course is the first in a two-semester organic chemistry sequence for chemistry, biology, and medical science majors, including three weekly recitations, lab work, and problem sessions.

CHEM 662/662L: Biochemistry I/Laboratory

This course explores the chemical and physical properties of biologically important molecules, including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, and enzymes, as well as a laboratory component and problem sessions.

Discover the full Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry (Pre-Health Professions) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Graduates are well-prepared for a wide range of career opportunities in the health sciences and related fields. Through rigorous academic training and extensive hands-on laboratory experience, the program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in diverse professional roles. Below are some of the most promising career paths available to graduates:

Osteopathic Physician

Osteopathic physicians focus on holistic care, emphasizing the body’s natural healing abilities and preventive medicine. Graduates who attend osteopathic medical school are trained to combine manual techniques with traditional treatments to address the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of health.

Quality Control Analyst

Quality control analysts ensure that pharmaceutical and chemical products meet safety and quality standards. Graduates use their analytical chemistry skills to test products, identify issues, and support compliance throughout the manufacturing process.

Research Scientist

Research scientists discover and innovate. Often working in academic, government, or industry labs, they conduct experiments to develop new treatments or explore complex chemical processes. Their work contributes to scientific advancement and can lead to breakthroughs that improve health and quality of life.

Safety Compliance Officer

Safety compliance officers play a critical role in industries that manage hazardous chemicals. Graduates in this role ensure organizations adhere to safety regulations and industry standards, helping to prevent accidents and protect both workers and the environment.

Health Sciences Educator

Health sciences educators teach and share their knowledge of chemistry. In this role, they teach chemistry and related subjects at the secondary or post-secondary level, helping to prepare the next generation of students for careers in health and science.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

Apply

Related Programs

Students interested in the Bachelor of Arts. in Chemistry (Pre-Osteopathy) program may also benefit from exploring related programs. These programs share a strong emphasis on rigorous scientific training, hands-on experience, and preparation for advanced study or professional careers in health and science fields.

Whether seeking to broaden academic horizons or pursue a more specialized path, these programs offer diverse options that align with a wide range of interests and career goals. Related programs include:

FAQ

What high school courses do we recommend for prospective students?

FHSU highly recommends high school courses in chemistry, biology, and mathematics to prepare students for the rigorous science curriculum of the B.A. in Chemistry (Pre-Osteopathy) program.

How flexible is the program for students exploring multiple career paths?

The B.A. in Chemistry (Pre-Osteopathy) program offers flexibility through elective courses in non-STEM disciplines, allowing students to explore various career paths while meeting the prerequisites for osteopathic medical school.

Are there research opportunities available for undergraduate students?

Students are encouraged to engage in undergraduate research and have opportunities to present their findings at regional and national conferences, enhancing their academic and professional profiles.

What support is available for students preparing for medical school applications?

The B.A. in Chemistry (Pre-Osteopathy) program provides tailored academic advising and mentoring to help students prepare for medical school applications, including guidance on course selection and extracurricular activities.

How does the program integrate chemical safety into the curriculum?

Instructors embed chemical safety into all lab courses, and rigorous training ensures students are well-prepared to handle hazardous materials and comply with industry standards.

Information about the Department of Chemistry

The Chemistry Department at FHSU offers a comprehensive education designed to equip students with advanced knowledge of chemistry and strong research skills. Supported by experienced faculty, students develop technical expertise and problem-solving abilities essential for success in the workforce or in graduate and professional schools.

Students engage in extensive hands-on learning and research using state-of-the-art equipment, preparing them for diverse careers in scientific and healthcare fields. Whether pursuing careers in teaching, research, or professional programs such as medical or dental schools, the department offers in-depth undergraduate and pre-professional programs tailored to individual goals.

Graduates of the chemistry programs are highly sought after across a wide range of chemistry-related professions. With a solid academic foundation and dedicated faculty support, students are well-prepared to embark on successful careers upon completing the programs.

Student Organizations

Pre-Osteopathy

Bachelor's

On-Campus

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