Program Description

The chemistry major, which is housed in the Department of Natural Sciences, combines a broad education in chemistry with courses in physics and mathematics to support the study, and all material is presented within the context of the liberal arts.

Through coursework and laboratory experiences, students study the atom as the basic unit of matter, how the bonding of atoms creates chemical compounds, the interactions of substances through intermolecular forces that give matter its properties, and the interactions between substances through chemical reactions that form different substances.

Emphases

Students working toward their degree in chemistry have multiple options beyond their foundational chemistry curriculum.

• General Chemistry emphasis provides numerous opportunties for graduates in scientific professions.
• Pre-professional emphasis prepares students to apply for medical school, veterinary school or pharmacy school
• Environmental Science allows for further study of the environment, with the help of the Kilbride Nature Sanctuary
• Secondary Education emphasis prepares students for teaching licensure in grades 6-12