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.

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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

Meden Isaac-Lam

PNW Chemistry professor collaborates abroad with microplastics research

Meden Isaac-Lam, professor of Chemistry at PNW, is creating awareness and researching solutions, both at PNW and abroad, on the negative effects of microplastics on the environment.

Neeti Parashar

Purdue University Northwest Physics professor earns prestigious American Physical Society fellowship

Purdue University Northwest (PNW) Professor of Physics Neeti Parashar has been elected as a 2024 Fellow of the American Physical Society (APS).

The PNW Bell Tower

Launching Search for Next CES Dean

You may be aware that Bruce Berdanier, Dean of the College of Engineering and Sciences, will be stepping down from his Dean’s position at the end of this academic year.

Upcoming Chemistry and Physics Events

Nov 27

Thanksgiving Break

Due to the Thanksgiving holiday, there will be no classes from Wednesday, November 27 through Saturday, November 30.

Dec 07

Fall 2024 Classes End

Fall Classes end Saturday, December 7. Next week are final exams! Make sure to study and enjoy your break after!

Dec 09

Fall 2024 Final Exams

Get ready to start your final exams! Final exams run from Monday, December 9, through Saturday, December 14.

Dec 14

Fall 2024 Commencement

Fall 2024 Commencement ceremonies will be held indoors at the Hammond campus on Saturday, December 14, 2024.