Training in chemistry/biochemistry blends descriptive, conceptual, and mathematical elements in both lectures and laboratory work. While developing chemical knowledge is essential, the progressive honing of analytical abilities is equally important.

Our department offers courses carefully designed to provide a rigorous introduction to chemistry/biochemistry for science students. Additionally, we create educational environment, including modern instrumentation, seminars, colloquia, research opportunities, and informal contacts, that invigorates the learning process and provides exciting opportunities for undergraduates. 

All Chemistry and Biochemistry B.S. Degree Programs can be customized to include electives that will prepare you for careers in Chemical Engineering, Forensic Chemistry, Geochemistry, Materials Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Energy Research, Polymer Chemistry, Enzymology, Plant Biochemistry, Protein Structure, Pharmaceuticals, Drug Discovery, Biotechnology, Public Health, Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, Dental Medicine, Environmental Work, Science Education and much more.

The standard B.S. degree in Chemistry is designed for students seeking careers in the chemical industry, or careers in law, government, journalism, business, etc., that would benefit from a strong background in the physical sciences and mathematics. Graduates completing the standard program for the B.S. Degree in Chemistry are certified by the American Chemical Society (ACS). Many our graduates with B.S. in Chemistry go on to the M.S. or Ph.D. programs at different U.S. Universities, including Harvard University, University of California at Berkeley, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Boston University, University of Texas at Austin, Pen State University, etc.

The curriculum for the Biochemistry Option adds biological sciences courses and substitutes some upper division chemistry courses with advanced biochemistry courses. This curricula is ACS Certified.

This option is designed for students planning on a career in K-12 education. The curriculum includes several education courses to the standard Chemistry program. It is not  ACS Certified curriculum.

The curriculum for this Option adds specialized courses in polymer science to the standard Chemistry program. It is ACS Certified. This is the only program in the U.S. that combines an ACS-certified B.S. degree in Chemistry with a coatings and polymeric materials curriculum. Students have numerous opportunities to participate in the summer research and cooperative programs sponsored by industry. For students who elect the Polymers and Coatings Option to the B.S. Degree in Chemistry, substantial scholarship support is available.

The curriculum for Pre-Professional Option is designed for students intending to apply for medical, dental  or other professional schools, substitutes some upper division chemistry courses with biology coursework.

This degree provides excellent preparation for work in the biotechnology industries, as well as graduate or professional schools.

The B.S. + M.S. degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology provides excellent preparation for work in the biotechnology industries, as well as credit towards further graduate studies. Career opportunities exist in medical, pharmaceutical, food processing, and agricultural fields. Graduates will also have excellent preparation for graduate school or schools of medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, and business.