A student pipes liquid into a test tube. They are wearing a white lab coat and green safety goggles.

Department of Chemistry and Physics

With a focus on chemistry, physics and the physical sciences, we prepare you for a career in today’s technical workforce or for postgraduate success.

Academic Programs

Our rigorous programs bring real-world experience to the classroom, building the knowledge you need to succeed.

Undergraduate


I am very happy to have been a graduate of PNW. I have many experiences, formed lasting friendships, and took the combined advice from of my professors and mentors and used it as a guide for my career, and will continue to do so in the future.

Resources

a student in a lab coat and classes work with test tubes

Student Resources

Discover

Students have opportunities for participating in significant, faculty-mentored research beginning in the sophomore year. Most present their data at research conferences and publish alongside faculty.

neeti parashar

Faculty Research

Premier Collaborations

Our faculty are engaged in a wide range of disciplinary and interdisciplinary research, including NSF-funded high energy physics collaborations with Fermilab and CERN.

a professor looks through shelves

Outstanding Faculty

Teaching

You will find yourself immersed in an innovative learning environment with faculty who are PNW’s “Star Teachers” and teaching-award winners.

News & Announcements

Rey Barretto (left) and Charles Steele (right)

PNW faculty members contribute to innovation addressing water contamination

Professors from multiple Purdue locations, cross-disciplinary students and industry have all joined together with a singular focus: safer water.

Terrell Sucre stands outside in commencement regalia

Purdue University Northwest graduates urged to confidently embrace change as they pursue their dreams

Purdue University Northwest’s (PNW) 2025 graduates have poured countless hours into their persistent journeys to earn their degrees. On May 10, the culmination of over 850 candidates’ hard work was celebrated during PNW’s 2025 Commencement.

Jose Sanchez

Welcoming Dr. José R. Sánchez as New CES Dean

I am delighted to announce the successful conclusion of the national search for the next Dean of the College of Engineering and Sciences (CES). Please join me in welcoming Dr. José R. Sánchez to this role, effective May 1, 2025.

Upcoming Chemistry and Physics Events

May 19

Summer 2025 Session 1 Classes Begin

First day of Summer 2025 Session I Classes, including 12-week session, first six-week session and first four-week session.

May 26

Memorial Day

There are no classes and campus offices are closed on Memorial Day.

Jun 13

First 4-week Module Classes End

Classes end that run the first four weeks of the Summer Session (May 19 to June 13).

Jun 16

Summer 8-week and Second 4-week Classes Begin

Summer 8-week (June 16 to August 8) and Second 4-week (June 16 to July 11) Classes Begin