Chemistry

The Chemistry and Biochemistry majors are accredited by the American Chemical Society (ACS).  Four tracks are available within the chemistry major: Chemistry with ACS Certification, Chemistry, Chemistry Health Professions, and Chemistry with Business. Two tracks are available within the biochemistry major: Biochemistry with ACS Certification and Biochemistry. Our Chemistry Health Professions and Biochemistry tracks prepare students for medical, pharmaceutical, dental or physician assistant programs.  The ACS Certified tracks prepare students for graduate studies in chemistry and biochemistry.  The Chemistry track prepares students to enter the workforce following graduation.  The Chemistry with Business track allows students the flexibility to pursue a professional career that benefits from a significant science background.  In addition, the Department has partnered with the School of Education to offer a Chemistry BS/ Adolescence Education 7- 12 MS with Students with Disabilities Generalist Dual Degree.   All courses are taught by full-time faculty. Each chemistry and biochemistry major is individually advised by a member of the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department faculty.  

Class sizes are small with approximately 30-40 students in general and organic chemistry courses and typically less than 15 students in upper level classes.  All students gain hands-on experience with modern instrumentation. Opportunities to become involved in research projects mentored by Department faculty begin as early as the summer after the freshman year. Students receive stipends to carry out research. They present their results at local and national conferences, and co-author publications in prestigious peer-reviewed journals. 

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Take a look at what our majors do after graduation

Highlighted Courses:

• Molecular Biology (BCH 403)
• Medicinal Chemistry (CHM 455)
• Materials Chemistry (CHM 420)

Distinctions

All professors in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry hold a PhD.  Our faculty represents each of the five major sub disciplines of chemistry (analytical, biochemistry, inorganic, organic, and physical).  Visiting speakers discuss the latest research developments and career opportunities. Our award winning chemistry club (SCACS) involves students in outreach and social events. Recent graduates have been awarded fellowships to PhD programs at:  Johns Hopkins University, University of North Carolina, Northwestern, Princeton, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Cornell, University of Michigan, and University at Buffalo.  Recent graduates have attended medical school at Georgetown University, Creighton University, University of Rochester, Ohio State University, and University at Buffalo.

Extended Learning Opportunities