Department of Chemistry

Chemistry is the study of the transformation of matter under conditions where molecules are of critical importance. It is often called the “central science” because it directly connects with most of the other natural sciences such as physics, biology, and environmental science. Students find that a connection in chemistry provides a broad foundation in modern science, where the old divisions are rapidly changing. This is illustrated by the essential need for a strong chemistry background in major research initiatives such as nanotechnology, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, biotechnology, materials science, environmental/atmospheric science, medicine, and law.

The chemistry program provides undergraduate students with the challenge of an independent research project and personal attention from a dedicated faculty. We offer an appropriate curriculum for your specific career plans. The B.S. major in chemistry provides an intensive chemistry background for graduate work in chemistry, for immediate employment, and for health-related fields. The B.S. major in materials chemistry, offered in collaboration with the Wesleyan Physics Department, is designed for students interested in graduate study in chemistry and materials engineering, and those desiring immediate employment in materials industries. The B.A. chemistry major prepares students for future studies in pharmacy, medicine, optometry, as well as teaching, and is often pursued in combination with a B.S. major in biology. In addition to the above offerings, students may pursue the chemistry education major or a minor in chemistry.

Wesleyan’s chemistry program prepares you to:

• demonstrate knowledge in the major fields of chemistry: inorganic, organic, analytical, physical, and biochemistry.
  
• design and execute experiments, analyze data, and present conclusions.
  
• utilize modern instrumentation for chemical analysis.
  
• work effectively as an individual and in groups.
  
• to become a better problem solver and more confident scientific thinker.
  
• search, comprehend, and communicate findings from chemical literature.
  
• obtain skills for employment or for professional or graduate school.