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Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry

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Chemistry Degree Program Overview

Chemistry is at the heart of discoveries and development of new and improved materials and products. Purdue University Northwest’s chemistry degree program provides you with solid foundation of knowledge and research experience for admission to professional/graduate schools, as well as careers in science and technology.

Department of Chemistry & Physics

We offer a chemistry degree approved by the American Chemical Society, an assurance of its quality. Our industrial colleagues recognize our program as excellent preparation for careers in the field.

Our well-established faculty provide a wide range of research opportunities and small classes that offer individualized attention.

Chemistry Major Curriculum

As a student in the chemistry program, you’ll take a balance of general education courses, College of Engineering and Sciences core courses, and courses in general chemistry, organic chemistry, math and physics. During years three and four, your classes will be based on a rotation scheme for upper level courses including biochemistry and analytical, physical and inorganic chemistries.

Faculty-mentored research is a requirement of the program.

Dive into college life with a core focus on general chemistry and calculus.

Chemistry Course of Study

Sample Courses

  • CHM 11500 – General Chemistry
  • CHM 19400 – Freshman Chemistry Orientation
  • MA 16300 – Integrated Calculus Analysis Geometry I

During your second year, concentrate on organic chemistry and physics and start taking elective courses.

Chemistry Course of Study

 

 

Sample Courses

  • CHM 26605 – Organic Chemistry
  • CHM 26400 – Organic Chemistry Laboratory
  • CHM 29400 – Sophomore Chemistry Seminar

By year three, study biochemistry and either inorganic and physical or analytical chemistry. Complete your electives and begin research.

Chemistry Course of Study

 

 

Sample Courses

  • CHM 37300 – Physical Chemistry
  • CHM 34200 – Inorganic Chemistry
  • CHM 34201 – Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory

Complete upper-level research projects and take Senior Seminar, in which you’ll summarize your research results.

Chemistry Course of Study

 

 

Sample Courses

  • CHM 49800 – Research In Chemistry
  • CHM 32100 – Analytical Chemistry I

Chemistry Degree Program Highlights

As a PNW chemistry major, you’ll have the skills employers seek and the background to continue your studies at a graduate or professional school. Our graduates flourish in careers throughout the country and around the world.

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Chemistry Degree Program Outcomes

Our program’s approval by the American Chemical Society greatly assists our graduates in securing employment or pursuing further study in graduate or professional schools.

Chemistry Degree Program Career Paths

Our graduates find success in the industrial sector as well as further studies in graduate and professional schools.

Chemistry Degree Program Beyond the Classroom

Our students participate in a number of organizations, including:

  • Student Affiliates of the American Chemical Society
  • Chemistry & Physics Club
  • Science Olympiad

See All Student Organizations

Chemistry Degree Program Employers

Our graduates are employed by:

  • Chemical companies, such as Dow Chemical Company
  • Coatings companies like Sherwin-Williams
  • Pharmaceutical companies, such as Pfizer

Chemistry Degree Program Scholarships

You’ll find plenty of opportunities to connect with faculty and peers in extracurricular activities, such as:

  • Chemistry Merit Award
  • Nils Nelson Scholarship
  • John Cox/CSCT Scholarship

See Engineering and Sciences Scholarships

Chemistry Degree Program Accreditation

This program is certified by the American Chemical Society (ACS).

Student Stories

Brandon R. Stieve

Brandon R. Stieve

Chemistry, Muncie

“I found the staff to be very helpful and encouraging on my journey to becoming a chemist and a scientist.”

Zakyra Jordan

Chemistry, Hammond

“The professor-student ratio allows students to get more one-on-one time, while also enabling students to build a professional relationship with their professors. I enjoyed getting to travel to the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, New Mexico to present my research on the Synthesis of Cannabidiol Analogs.”

Seidu Mahama

Seidu Mahama

Chemistry, Indianapolis

“As the president of the Chemistry and Physics Club for two years, I gained tremendous leadership experience. This also provided me with opportunities to serve in the community, and ultimately enhanced my application and admittance into medical school.”

Meet the Faculty

Farai Gombedza

Farai C. Gombedza, M.S., Ph.D.

Assistant Professor of Biochemistry

Farai C. Gombedza is an assistant professor of biochemistry with research interest in cellular signaling and chemical education.

Meden F. Isaac-Lam, Ph.D.

Meden F. Isaac-Lam, Ph.D.

Professor of Chemistry

Meden F. Isaac-Lam teaches organic chemistry, biochemistry and general chemistry. Her research is in drug therapeutics for cancer, calorie restriction, magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy, plastic degradation, environmental protection and STEM education.

Libbie S. W. Pelter, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Chemistry

Libbie Pelter teaches organic and inorganic chemistry catalysis. She engages undergraduates in research in catalysis, computational chemistry and development of sustainable methodologies in synthesis.

Three students stand together wearing white lab coats and blue, plastic gloves. The student in the middle is holding a petri dish in the air.

Earn a Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry at PNW

Purdue University Northwest’s chemistry degree program provides you with necessary skills in general chemistry, organic chemistry, math and physics for success in your future career.

To see how a Bachelor’s Degree in chemistry from PNW opens doors, from labs to graduate school, take the next step today!

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