Business-Oriented Chemistry

If you enjoy and excel in science, but want to work in a corporate rather than lab environment, Western Michigan University offers a major in business-oriented chemistry just for you. 

WMU's business-oriented chemistry degree is for students interested in the distribution of chemical products and materials, rather than chemical research and development. The coursework will equip you with a broad background in chemical science and familiarize you with the corporate community. After honing in on your business skills, you'll be better positioned to apply them in a specialized setting because of your knowledge of complex chemical processes.

Beyond the classroom

As a business-oriented chemistry student, you can gain experience beyond the classroom by joining WMU's Chem Club, an affiliate group of the American Chemical Society. The club provides networking opportunities and information about careers and advanced degrees in chemistry-related fields. You might also join a student organization that provides you with experiences to complement your degree, such as the Management Student Organization, the Sales and Business Marketing Association, or the American Marketing Association.

You should also apply for paid and unpaid internships with nearby businesses, since prior experience is a huge consideration for employers looking to hire even the most specialized sales and marketing associates.

After you graduate

Recent WMU graduates with degrees in business-oriented chemistry are working as:

  • Managers
  • Consultants
  • Marketing associates
  • Sales representatives

Among the companies they work for are:

  • AMCOL Corp.
  • Chemical Waste Management
  • Environmental Science and Engineering
  • CH2M Hill

If you're interested in attending graduate school, WMU's business-oriented chemistry program will provide flexibility. After successfully completing your coursework, and upon being accepted, you should be able to move easily into a graduate program in either business or chemistry with very few course deficiencies to make up.

Career Outcomes

Where is this program offered?

  • Kalamazoo

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