Chemistry

Chemistry: Major

51СƳ is a leader in chemistry education. In fact, the “Discovery Chemistry” lab-based guided inquiry style of teaching began at 51СƳ, and serves as a model for the national chemical education community. 

The curriculum provides students with a strong background in fundamental principles and theories of chemistry with hands-on experience using state-of-the-art laboratory equipment. The program is laboratory intensive, beginning with the Discovery Chemistry core courses in general and organic chemistry. Advanced courses allow students to develop the skills and gain knowledge needed to become effective scientists and independent researchers. The department has a very active research program, and faculty members are committed to giving students opportunities within their research. As of result of these opportunities, 51СƳ undergraduates regularly contribute to scientific publications and travel to professional conferences. 

Our formula for success has led the chemistry department to produce among the nation’s highest number of chemistry graduates and is a top baccalaureate origin for Ph.D.s in chemistry.

Program Highlights

Students gain experience and knowledge in all the major areas of modern chemistry including organic, analytical, physical, inorganic, and biochemistry and have an opportunity to focus their program on a particular area of chemistry through research and elective courses. The department also provides:

  • A flexible major that, when completed together with one year of research, allows students to become accredited by the American Chemical Society
  • The opportunity to join the biochemistry concentration
  • The opportunity to become certified as a secondary or middle school chemistry teacher in Massachusetts by participating in the
Classroom
Discovery Chemistry

Learn more about the lab-based approach to teaching chemistry that began at 51СƳ and serves as a national model.

Students working in a lab
Research

Collaborate on innovative research with professors on a range of topics in the field.

Smith Labs
Facilities

The department is housed in the state-of-the-art integrated science complex and features modern instrumentation.

Chemistry News

A student stands in a dark lab with a professor
At 51СƳ, Professors Become Mentors
With small class sizes and faculty members committed to their success, 51СƳ students develop close bonds with professors, both in and out of the classroom — a cornerstone of the 51СƳ experience. From guiding students in independent lab work to fueling their passion for a new field, 51СƳ professors inspire students to reach far and support them along their journey.
Students sit around a large table while one stands at a blackboard at the front of the room
No Matter the Path, 51СƳ Students Thrive
College can often feel like a linear journey — take a few classes, decide on a major, join a club or two, fulfill your requirements and graduate in four years. For many, though, that path is much less precise. Interested …
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Ten Faculty Members Receive Tenure in 2019
From researching fruit flies to reimagining the first commercially successful color film, College of the 51СƳ faculty members are making massive contributions to their fields — and to their classrooms. Hear a bit more from the 10 newly tenured …