Chemistry, A.S.
Prairie State College’s Chemistry A.S. program offers comprehensive coursework in chemical principles, lab techniques, and scientific reasoning. Designed for students planning to transfer to a four-year college, this program also opens doors to careers in research, healthcare, and industry.
What Can You Do with a Degree in Chemistry?
With this degree, you can transfer to a four-year college to complete a bachelor’s
degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or related fields. It also prepares you for entry-level
positions in laboratories, pharmaceuticals, environmental science, or healthcare support
roles. The program provides a solid foundation for careers in research, teaching,
or continuing your education in graduate or professional programs.
Graduates with an Associate in Science in Chemistry are prepared to transfer to universities
to pursue bachelor’s degrees in chemistry, biochemistry, or related fields. Careers
in research, pharmaceuticals, environmental science, healthcare, and education are
accessible with further study. The demand for skilled chemists and science professionals
remains strong, with opportunities for advancement in various scientific and technical
industries.
Suggested Curriculum
Chemists apply scientific principles to solve practical problems in fields like research,
management, marketing, and production. Bachelor’s programs in chemistry build on a
strong foundation of science and math courses, with advanced classes preparing students
for graduate studies or careers in industry.
Area A: Communication (9 credits)
- ENG 101 Composition I (C1 900) - with a grade of C or better
- ENG 102 Composition II (C1 901R) - with a grade of C or better
- COMM 101 Principles of Communication (C2 900)
Area B: Humanities and Fine Arts (6 credits)
Select two courses from the list for Area B with one course from humanities and one course from fine arts.
Area C: Mathematics (5 credits)
- MATH 171 Calculus with Analytic Geometry I (M1 900-1; MTH 901)
Area D: Physical and Life Sciences (7-8 credits)
- PHYSI 210 University Physics I (P2 900L; PHY 911)
- Select one life science from the list for Area D.
- BIOL 112 Organismal Biology (L1 910L; BIO 910) recommended
Area E: Social and Behavioral Sciences (6 credits)
Select two courses in two different disciplines from the list for Area E.
Select one MATH course and one ASTRO, BIOL, CHEM, ENGR, GEOG (not GEOG 101), GEOLO, METEO, PHYSC, or PHYSI course from the list for Courses Approved for Transfer to qualify for an A.S. degree. Each course must be 3 credits or more. This IAI major panel recommends that the courses below are taken to meet this requirement as they are typically taken by freshmen and sophomores at universities for this specific major.
- CHEM 110 General Chemistry I (P1 902L; CHM 911)
- CHEM 130 General Chemistry II (CHM 912)
- CHEM 203 Organic Chemistry I (CHM 913)
- CHEM 204 Organic Chemistry II (CHM 914)
- MATH 172 Calculus with Analytic Geometry II (M1 900-2; MTH 902)
- PHYSI 220 University Physics II (PHY 912)
To transfer as a junior into a bachelor’s chemistry program, students must complete all of the essential prerequisite courses above. Be aware that because of differences among schools in the number of credits for which various courses are offered, and the possible need for prerequisite courses, it may be difficult to complete an Associate in Science degree without taking more credits than will be accepted in transfer.
Each college and university has its own major requirements and transfer policies. Consult the schools you are considering and a PSC advisor to discuss courses and their transferability.
Faculty Contact Information
Christine Brooms
Professor, Coordinator, Chemistry Department Chair, Natural Sciences
Email: cbrooms@prairiestate.edu
Phone: 709-3604
Office: 2297
April McDonnell
Science Lab Coordinator
Email: amcdonnell@prairiestate.edu
Phone: 709-7760
Office: 3145
Prairie State College provides a comprehensive array of resources designed to foster student success and well-being. These include disability support services, health and safety protocols, career development counseling, and personal support. Academic assistance is readily available through tutoring, advising, and library services, while transfer advising and campus security ensure a safe and seamless college experience. Additionally, the college offers various financial aid options to help students achieve their educational objectives.
Do more with your Degree
Maximize your educational opportunities by exploring our Online programs and personalized
Academic Counseling. Discover how you can expand your credentials and successfully
transition to your next academic goal.
AcademicsOnline Learning
Experience flexible learning with Prairie State College’s online courses. Study from
anywhere at your own pace and achieve your goals with quality education and support.
Start today and advance your future on your schedule.
Student ResourcesAcademic Advising
Need guidance on your academic journey? Reach out to our dedicated academic advisors!
Whether you're choosing the right classes, planning your transfer, or exploring career
options, our advisors are here to support you every step of the way. Don't wait—contact
us today to stay on track and achieve your goals!
