Department of Chemistry, Physics, and Astronomy

About the Department

The Department of Chemistry and Physics provides a comprehensive major program in Chemistry, minor programs in Chemistry and Physics as well as disciplinary and interdisciplinary courses in the core curriculum. For more information about our program view our recruitment video.

Chemistry majors are eligible for several scholarships. Freshman can apply for four year research stipends as a part of our Scholar's Program. Check with the financial aid department for details on university scholarships..

Mission Statement

The major in Chemistry is designed to provide depth in the discipline through sequential study. Emphasis is placed on scientific reasoning, critical thinking, and problem solving. Recognizing that there is a profound connection between analytical thinking and the ability to express ideas clearly, the Department provides opportunities in its courses for writing on chemical topics and for oral reports. Courses provide students with the most current objective descriptions of the physical universe in chemical terms and present the theories and models that integrate these observations and make them understandable. Through laboratory work and by instrumental chemical analysis, students gain experience in making chemical observations and measurements and transforming these into useful characterizations.

The major in Chemistry is appropriate preparation for graduate study, for science education, for employment in a laboratory environment, or for studies in several allied areas such as engineering and many health service professions.

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