Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (BS Chemistry or BS Chem) is an undergraduate program established in 1910 and is currently being offered by the Institute of Chemistry under the College of Science of UP Diliman. It follows a 4-year curriculum encompassing a broad range of courses, with major focus in the core disciplines of chemistry, namely, Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, and Biochemistry. The current version of the curriculum was established in 2018 and requires a total of 132-136 academic units. The program provides students with a strong foundation in chemical principles, laboratory techniques, and analytical skills, often integrating research opportunities and practical experiences. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in industry, education, or further studies in graduate or professional schools.
The program aims to:
- equip graduates with the qualifications and skills required for professional practice and employment both locally and abroad;
- build a strong academic foundation for further education in chemistry and related fields such as medicine, engineering, and environmental science; and
- encourage research, creativity, and ethical application of chemistry to address industry and societal needs.
The graduates of the BS Chemistry program should be able to:
- demonstrate a broad and coherent knowledge and understanding of the core areas of Chemistry: Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, and Biochemistry; and in addition, the necessary background in Mathematics and Physics;
- perform analysis using standard laboratory equipment, modern instrumentation, and classical techniques;
- solve problems involving the chemical sciences using current disciplinary and interdisciplinary principles;
- qualify for further academic pursuits and/or for entry-level employment as a professional in the chemistry or allied fields;
- discuss developments surrounding chemistry, including reflections on relevant scientific and ethical issues;
- work effectively and independently in multi-disciplinary and multicultural teams;
- exhibit professional, social, and ethical responsibility;
- effectively communicate orally and in writing using both English and Filipino;
- preserve and promote Filipino historical and cultural heritage; and
- act with honor and excellence in service to the public and the profession.
The Institute of Chemistry follows the University of the Philippines’ admission policy for incoming freshmen at the Bachelor’s level. The BS Chemistry program is a quota course, accepting a maximum of only 80 new first-year (previously referred to as freshman) students every academic year. These students are admitted via the University of the Philippines College Admission Test (UPCAT), a yearly exam administered by the University, through the Office of Admissions.
Click here for the UPCAT requirements and procedures.
In addition to the UPCAT, shifting applicants coming from other institutes of the College of Science (S1) or from other colleges within UP Diliman (S2) and transferring applicants from other UP units (T1) may also be admitted to the BS Chemistry program, subject to compliance with the admission requirements of the Institute of Chemistry and falling within the quota at the time of the application. Transfer applicants from other Higher Education Institutions (T2) and those aiming for second degrees are not currently being considered. The Institute of Chemistry usually accepts shifting or transferring students only before the start of the first semester of each academic year. As a main requirement of UP Diliman, shifting or transferring students may be admitted only after completion of at least thirty (30) collegiate academic units, provided that the student has not been permanently dismissed from the current program or found guilty of dishonesty or any form of misconduct.
Click here for the minimum requirements for students wishing to shift or transfer to BS Chemistry.
Click here for the shifting and transferring procedures and forms.
With a BS Chemistry degree and a professional license, graduates can pursue careers as chemists in a wide range of industries. These include food and beverage, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, oil and petroleum, minerals and metals, textiles, agricultural products, pulp and paper, and analytical chemistry services. They are also highly valued in quality control, product development, and research laboratories. Beyond private companies, opportunities exist in government agencies concerned with public health, safety, and environmental protection, as well as in crime laboratories where chemists contribute to forensic analysis.
A BS Chemistry degree also opens doors to non-laboratory careers. Graduates can work in science communication, technical writing, entrepreneurship, marketing and management, product sales, chemical information services, health and safety, intellectual property, and project management. These roles highlight the versatility of BS Chemistry graduates, combining scientific expertise with analytical and communication skills.
In the academic sector, BS Chemistry graduates may teach in colleges and universities. Those who pursue advanced degrees (M.S. or Ph.D.) in chemistry and allied fields gain access to senior faculty positions and research opportunities, allowing them to contribute to scientific knowledge and mentor future generations of chemists. Graduates can also qualify for further study in the field of medicine and law.
The BS Chemistry program is designed to be completed in four (4) years, with a curriculum covering 132–136 academic units and 14 non-academic units for Physical Education (PE) and National Service Training Program (NSTP). Aside from Chemistry, the core ancillary courses encompass the fields of Geology, Biology, Mathematics, and Physics. Moreover, the General Education (GE) courses help shape students into well‑rounded individuals, and there are no prerequisites, allowing these courses to be taken in any order. The components of the BS Chemistry curriculum, together with the corresponding number of units, are listed below:
- Core Chemistry Courses (60 units)
- Core Ancillary Courses (26 units)
- General Education (GE) (30 units)
- Electives (6–10 units)
- Thesis and Professional Engagement (7 units)
- Mandatory Rizal Course (3 units)
- Physical Education (PE) (8 units)
- National Service Training Program (NSTP) (6 units)
A feature of the BS Chemistry program is the integrated laboratory courses combining different chemistry areas in recognition of the interdisciplinary approach to solve contemporary problems. These courses are Chem 101.1, Chem 101.2, Chem 102.1, and Chem 102.2, which span all the core disciplines of chemistry. The skills instilled in the students through the integrated experiments prepare them for engaging in professional work and research that are multidisciplinary in nature.