10 Best Online Chemistry Degrees in 2025

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for chemists and materials scientists is growing by 8%, which is faster than the national average. Those looking to enter this field must first pursue higher education, starting with a bachelor's degree.

The best online bachelor's in chemistry degrees provide the same foundational knowledge and practical skills as traditional programs but offer more flexibility. For students on a budget, low-cost online chemistry degrees can be difficult to find; however, several scholarships and financial aid opportunities are available. Keep reading to explore some of the top online degrees.

Best Online Chemistry Degree Programs

Aspiring chemistry students can choose between several top online master's in chemistry degrees. For undergraduates, there are also online bachelor's degrees in chemistry. Read the programs below to discover your academic path.

1. Arizona State University

Arizona State University offers an online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in chemistry degree. Students gain fundamental knowledge of chemistry and critical thinking skills to prepare them for further education or career opportunities.

Some of the required courses include general organic chemistry and advanced analytical chemistry. Students also complete in-person labs and eScience lab kits for hands-on experiences.

2. Ohio University

At Ohio University, students may earn a Master of Science (MS) degree in chemistry in an online learning format. The program is designed specifically for science teachers looking for further professional development and can be completed in three semesters for 30 credits.

The classes are taught by expert faculty who teach the in-person MS chemistry degree. Lectures can be watched at any time; however, coursework has firm due dates.

3. University of Memphis

The University of Memphis offers an online MS degree in chemistry. Students take a variety of chemistry courses, such as:

• analytical chemistry
• organic chemistry
• biochemistry
• physical chemistry
• inorganic chemistry

To complete the program, students earn at least 30 credit hours. Graduates gain practical skills, such as communication, problem-solving, and writing.

4. University of North Carolina

The University of North Carolina offers a fully online MS degree in chemistry. Students deepen their knowledge of general chemistry, while also pursuing alternative tracks in business, education, or clinical research.

The program is flexible, fitting into the schedule of students with full-time jobs. Students set their own pace and complete coursework whenever works best with their jobs and responsibilities.

5. Illinois Institute of Technology

Illinois Institute of Technology offers an MS degree in analytical chemistry. The program is designed for working professionals with fully online classes; however, there is an optional week-long lab class in Chicago. Some of the courses include:

• liquid chromatography
• gas chromatography
• spectroscopic methods
• advanced analytical chemistry

6. University of Saint Joseph

At the University of Saint Joseph, working professionals can complete a master's degree in chemistry online. The program offers advanced chemistry classes to deepen students' understanding of the subject and relate principles to specializations, such as:

• forensic chemistry
• medicinal chemistry
• environmental chemistry
• cancer biochemistry

The coursework is flexible and taught by academic and industry experts. Graduates are prepared for further graduate degrees or professional career opportunities.

7. Worchester Polytechnic Institute

At Worchester Polytechnic Institute, graduate students may complete an MS degree in chemistry with a medicinal plant chemistry focus. This flexible and individualized degree path enables students to learn the necessary knowledge and skills for a career in plant-based chemical industries.

8. Indiana University

Students may pursue a Bachelor of Science (BS) in chemistry at Indiana University. While not a fully online degree, students may be able to take a lower-division chemistry class and other general education requirements online.

9. University of Alaska Anchorage

At the University of Alaska Anchorage, students may earn a BS in chemistry. This program is also not completely online, but it offers some flexibility with classes offered at satellite sites throughout the region and online classes.

The program provides mentorship for research projects. Students may also participate in internships and hands-on learning in high-tech facilities.

10. University of Colorado Colorado Springs

The University of Colorado offers students an opportunity to pursue a BS in chemistry through a hybrid format. Students take courses such as:

• analytical chemistry
• inorganic chemistry
• thermodynamics and kinetics
• biochemistry

Chemistry majors must maintain a 2.0 GPA in all chemistry courses, and a minimum of 16 hours must be upper division chemistry classes. Graduates prepare for further school or careers as chemists in government agencies or private labs.

Our Selection Criteria

We selected the degree programs based on several ranking factors, including:

• Learning format: The schools listed above all offer online learning options, ensuring flexibility for students with busy schedules.
• Program focus: We chose schools that offer a degree program focused on chemistry.
• Academic reputation: All schools on our list are accredited and have an excellent reputation for online learning.

Benefits of Accredited Online Chemistry Degrees

Accredited online chemistry degrees offer flexibility that traditional on-campus programs often cannot match. Students tailor their study schedules to fit their personal and professional commitments. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those who may be working full-time or have other obligations.

Another significant advantage is accessibility. Online programs can reach students in remote areas who may not have access to local institutions offering chemistry degrees, providing academic opportunities without the need to relocate or commute.

Common Coursework in Chemistry Programs

Online chemistry courses are dependent on whether the student is seeking a bachelor's degree or a master's degree. For an undergraduate degree, students can expect lower-division general education, science, and mathematics requirements. Upper-division coursework will likely include organic and analytical chemistry classes.

For master's programs, there is generally more advanced and specialized courses available. There may also be a thesis requirement in graduate programs.

Career Paths in the Field of Chemistry

Those who obtain a chemistry degree have various career opportunities available. Some graduates may pursue teaching, chemical engineering, biochemistry, and more. Many graduates also pursue further education, obtaining doctoral degrees.

Scholarships for Online Students in Chemistry

While online colleges that accept FAFSA provide some financial aid in the form of loans or grants, several outside scholarships are available to help offset the cost of tuition. We explore several of these awards below.

ACS Scholars Program

Award Amount: $5,000

Application Deadline: March 1

The ACS Scholars Program offers over 300 scholarships every year. Scholarships are awarded to chemistry majors from historically underrepresented groups. These scholarships are renewable, provided the student abides by the requirements of the award.

ACS Hatch Program

Award Amount: Varies

Application Deadline: May 1

The Hatch program awards scholarships to over 200 students seeking to become chemistry teachers. Options are available for undergraduate and graduate students.

The Breanden Beneschott Grant

Award Amount: $1,000

Application Deadline: April 1

The Breanden Beneschott Grant awards a scholarship to an individual pursuing a chemical engineering degree. The student may be enrolled in an educational program at any level.

Find Online Bachelor's Degrees Today

Are you ready to pursue a career in chemistry? Start pursuing your goals by finding a fast online chemistry degree on Learn.org. Request info from each school individually to learn about financial aid, curriculum, and enrollment requirements.