Immerse yourself in the composition, structure, properties and reactions of matter, especially of atomic, elemental and molecular systems. Experience a challenging but nurturing environment and take courses in analytical, biological, inorganic, organic and physical chemistry.

Undergraduate and graduate students perform original research in a number of different areas of chemistry, from theoretical and experimental physical chemistry to organic synthesis, nanomaterials and biochemistry.

Facilities

The Department of Chemistry is located in the Center for Science and Technology (CST) on the eastern edge of campus.

The department is equipped with state-of-the-art research and teaching facilities and an outstanding technical support staff. Available instrumentation includes the following, to name a few:

• Isothermal titration calorimeter
• NMR and X-ray crystallography facilities
• Ultrafast laser laboratory
• Several high-resolution spectrophotometers and fluorimeters
• Electrochemical analyzers
• HPLC systems
• Polarimeters
• IR and Raman spectrometers
• Instrumentation for GC-MS and LC-MS measurements

Other support services include the Chemistry Stores, an on-campus source for commonly used laboratory supplies and chemicals, and electronics and glass blowing shops, where highly specific research equipment is designed and fabricated. The Science and Technology Library offers an outstanding collection of scientific literature and electronic resources.

Take chemistry out into the world

There are many career possibilities for a chemistry major. Chemical, drug and oil companies are certainly options. Here are some others:

• Manufacturing companies—such as fragrances, steel, dyes, or computers.
• Service companies offering testing, cleaning, or analysis
• Education.
• Government (national laboratories, agencies, or the military).
• Entrepreneurial opportunities, start-ups, or think tanks.
• Legal field. Lawyers with a chemistry degree are highly sought after for their expertise.

Learn more about all your options by speaking with your advisor.