UMass Dartmouth's Chemistry department offers a bachelor's degree in chemistry with an option in biochemistry. Transform the ordinary into the amazing. When you study chemistry and/or biochemistry, you study matter and its transformation. Chemists conduct research and experiments to discover new concepts about the universe. They try to solve society's problems, whether by developing a cure for cancer, monitoring the earth's ozone layer, creating new materials to heat our homes, or pursuing countless other challenges. The knowledge you'll gain through the study of chemistry at UMass Dartmouth will open the door to many different career opportunities within the five divisions of chemistry: analytical, biological, inorganic, organic, or physical. You'll be prepared for biochemistry careers in education, forensics, government, law, industry, medicine, or research. <br><br>The BS/MS option permits the student to achieve both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in five years, rather than the usual six years required. This option provides exposure to graduate courses and research, making easier the transition from BS-MS to PhD-level study. For those going directly into teaching or industry, the master's degree typically yields a significant increase in starting salary. By counting some beginning graduate courses also as senior chemistry courses, this combined program permits the student to achieve both degrees in 143 credits, fewer than the total if the two degree programs were taken separately. Two summers of research are necessary. Entrance into this program requires approval of the department.