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Chemistry

Explore science’s great connector in state-of-the-art labs with Ph.D. trained faculty.

Professor Evonne Baldauff instructing in her chemistry class

Chemistry majors participate in research and inquiry-based activities in a variety of settings to prepare for real-world problem solving.

Our American Chemical Society approved curriculum strategically combines chemistry, mathematics, and physics courses to make you a well-rounded, competent chemist. Classes and laboratories are taught by specialized faculty trained in the chemical sciences. You’ll work directly with modern equipment and instrumentation and have the opportunity to attend scholarly conferences starting as soon as your first year.

Upon completion of the degree, you’ll have a strong foundation of modern theory and laboratory skills for chemistry career options that include teaching, research and development, and management, as well as for advanced study in chemistry or medicine.

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The Chemistry Major at Waynesburg University is an official "Approved Chemistry Program" as determined by the American Chemical Society.

As a chemistry student, you'll have countless opportunities to work with our student chapter of ACS.

 

 

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Get a glimpse of what it's like as a student in the Department of Chemistry and Forensic Science!

What Sets Us Apart

Learn in state-of-the-art facilities

The Stewart Science building is a five-story complex that houses several science departments and is home to newly renovated chemistry laboratories. The labs contain suites of advanced, modern equipment that all students have direct access to, where you can learn to troubleshoot and work independently.

Take advantage of opportunities

All Chemistry students have many opportunities to get involved in events, camps, labs, and organizations to enhance your research, networking, public speaking, and more. Each of our faculty members runs an active research program that you can join, encompassing topics such as drug discovery, pharmaceutical analysis, and analysis of coffee.

Make valuable connections

Each month, our students can attend the Society of Analytical Chemists of Pittsburgh meeting to network with area professionals. Many of our students have made great connections through this experience.

Get involved in ACS

You can also become a member of the Waynesburg University American Chemical Society Student Chapter, which has been ranked as an outstanding chapter for the past nine years. You can get involved in one of the most active student chapters in the country, enabling you to make significant connections to your future professional life.

Faculty Research News

Dr. Takashi Suyama and collaborators, including recent graduate Kimberly Taylor, were recently published in the Journal of Natural Products for their work involving the total synthesis of a marine natural product isolated from cyanobacteria. Taylor, a Jeffrey and Regina Taussig Ohio Honors Scholarship awardee and 2021 chemistry graduate, is pursuing a Ph.D. in organic chemistry at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. Taylor began work on this project as a sophomore and presented her findings at the virtual 2021 American Chemical Society (ACS) Spring Meeting. Dr. Suyama and Taylor collaborated with researchers at the Center for Marine Biotechnology and Biomedicine at Scripps Institution of Oceanography and Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of San Diego.

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Coursework

View the academic catalog to further explore the curriculum.

Student Outcomes for Chemistry

Students will:

  • Develop a strong, well-rounded foundation in analytical, organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry and biochemistry, while learning to understand the connections between these areas. 
  • Learn to reason analytically, applying critical thinking and problem-solving skills, to confidently approach questions as a scientist.
  • Gain practical and functional hands-on experience of commonly used instrumentation with an emphasis on interpretation of results, trouble-shooting, and understanding the underlying theories of operation.
  • Participate in research experiences that promote independent learning, build literature skills, develop creative thinking, and highlight the design and execution of novel experiments. 
  • Develop superior communication skills through focused practice in writing lab reports, technical papers, oral presentations, and critically analyzing scientific articles.
  • Recognize, appreciate, and implement standard laboratory safety procedures, considering environmental concerns and acting in an ethical, professional, and responsible fashion. 
  • Have the opportunity to integrate their studies of chemistry with the University’s mission of faith, learning, and service by participating in departmental activities and student organizations.

Chemisty News & Events

Stay up to date on the Department of Chemistry happenings.