students looking at beakers

Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry

Concentration: Materials Science (BSCH)

Request Information

Loading...

Materials Science Concentration Overview

Materials science combines various disciplines to create new materials. Purdue University Northwest’s Bachelor of Science in Chemistry degree program with a concentration in materials science allows you to learn about the structure and composition of materials and the processes to synthesize and use them.

Department of Chemistry and Physics

As a materials scientist, you’ll combine an in-depth knowledge of chemistry with the engineering expertise that made the Purdue system famous. You will also receive a chemistry degree approved by the American Chemical Society, an assurance of its quality.

The program provides a strong background in chemistry with a focus in polymers, catalysis and materials engineering.

Materials Science Concentration Curriculum

As a materials science student, you’ll take a balance of general education courses, College of Engineering and Sciences core courses and chemistry courses. This ACS-certified chemistry degree focuses on the structure and dynamics of modern materials, ranging from enhanced steel to composites used in the space program to biodegradable plastics.

The program prepares you for success in the material science workforce or graduate school.

Begin your chemistry and general education sequences as well as courses in mathematics and physics.

Materials Science Concentration Course of Study

Sample Courses

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

 

Complete basic introductory courses and start focusing on material science-specific knowledge and techniques.

Materials Science Concentration Course of Study

 

Sample Courses

  • CHM 26505 – Organic Chemistry
  • CHM 26300 – Organic Chemistry Laboratory
  • MA 26100 – Multivariate Calculus

Dig into advanced studies in chemistry and materials engineering. You’ll also begin an applied research project.

Materials Science Concentration Course of Study

 

Sample Courses

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

Complete your studies, including a year-long capstone research project and seminar.

Materials Science Concentration Course of Study

 

Sample Courses

  • CHM 49800 – Research In Chemistry
  • CHM 32100 – Analytical Chemistry I
  • CHM 35000 – Coatings And Resins

Materials Science Concentration Highlights

PNW is the only university in Northwest Indiana to specialize in the chemistry of materials. Chemistry graduates have high success rates in local industries and professional programs.

PNW Lion Statue with a brick wall in the background Two students pose in commencement regalia in front of the Nils Building

Materials Science Concentration Outcomes

As a student with the Material Studies concentration on your ACS-certified Chemistry degree, you’ll have an edge when pursuing career opportunities or professional programs in chemistry/chemical engineering.

Materials Science Concentration Career Paths

Materials scientists are employed by companies that make products from metals, ceramics and rubber. They also work in the coatings and biomedical industries.

Materials Science Concentration 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

Materials Science Concentration Employers

Our alumni are employed by companies such as:

  • Pfizer
  • Monosol
  • CSL Behring
  • Elite Crete Systems

Materials Science Concentration Scholarships

Chemistry students have a number of scholarships specific to the discipline:

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

See Engineering and Sciences Scholarships

Materials Science Concentration Accreditation

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

I am majoring in Chemistry at PNW because I believe that it's a great program. Students have a strong network with professors. I also have the opportunity to intern at Kemira Water Solutions in East Chicago, IN.

Jacob Dockery
BS, Chemistry, Materials Science (Expected 2021), Hobart

 

Meet the Faculty

Michael Pelter

Michael W. Pelter, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Chemistry

Michael Pelter is an associate professor of chemistry. His areas of expertise include organic, polymer and computational chemistry and chemical education. He has been at PNW since 1991.

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 with a Concentration in Materials Science at PNW

Purdue University Northwest’s materials science concentration provides you with a strong chemistry foundation paired with knowledge about the structure and composition of materials

To see how a bachelor’s degree in chemistry with a concentration in materials science from PNW opens doors, from boardrooms to laboratories, take the next step today!

Request Info