Undergraduate Programs Overview
- As the central science, Chemistry is a major player in tackling big questions and problems — searching for ways to feed the world's growing population, tapping into new sources of energy, improving health and fighting disease, and protecting the environment.
- A Chemistry or Biochemistry degree is excellent preparation for a variety of careers or advanced study at the graduate and professional levels.
- Newly renovated research and teaching labs provide
state-of-the-art instrumentation and facilities. - We’ll help you grow as an independent scientist by providing
focused research opportunities. - Our program develops the whole scientist, emphasizing professional development in all aspects, including oral and written communication skills.
- Thanks to a ratio of one full-time faculty member for every eight
majors, you’re never just a face in a crowd. - Advising is a key component of our program — the mentoring
relationships you develop here will carry into your professional life.
As a Chemistry or Biochemistry major, you are offered the opportunity to work with top scholars in cutting-edge research projects, while being taught by those same scholars. The Department offers three majors:
- Chemistry
- Biochemistry/Molecular Biology (joint with Biological Sciences)
- Chemistry for the Professions (secondary major)
A minor in Chemistry is also available with an additional track for Right of Public Instruction certification.
Careers in Chemistry information
- American Chemical Society
- Article from Chemical & Engineering News: "A Patently Satisfying Career"
- Where our graduates go
Undergraduate Research: A Hallmark of our Program
Undergraduates are strongly encouraged to participate in research projects with a faculty mentor, which can be taken for course credit or as a paid summer internship. Such projects provide outstanding professional development opportunities for our students. Become a published author and present your work at national scientific meetings! Roughly 90% of our chemistry majors have completed a research project in the last seven years, resulting in 20 papers with undergraduate co-authors. Up to six hours of Chemistry 4956, Undergraduate Research, may be taken for credit towards the degree; you are encouraged to begin investigating the research interests of the faculty early and to begin laboratory work as early as you can.
Examples of recent undergraduate projects:
Explore:
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CheMU: Our undergraduate chemistry society
- CheMU is our undergraduate society. Students have the option of becoming student affiliates of the ACS, and our undergraduates regularly meet and plan activities such as chemistry magic shows, social outings, panel discussions, and much more!
- Connect to our new CheMU webpage!
Student Awards and Achievements
The department presents awards at the end of each academic year to outstanding students at all levels. Awards include:
- Excellence in General Chemistry
- Excellence in Organic Chemistry
- Excellence in Analytical Chemistry
- Merck Index Award
- American Institute of Chemists Award
Chemistry Department Awards Presentations
More Resources
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