Chemists are scientists, technicians, managers, producers, teachers, and always, problem solvers. Chemists are developing new materials in the areas of ceramics, polymers, superconductors and pharmaceuticals. Chemists are determining structures of complex molecules such as AIDS virus and components of cancer cells and tropical medicinal plants. Chemists are developing new processes for producing needed materials in commercial quantities, in usable forms, and at acceptable cost. Chemists are monitoring the environment, analyzing criminal evidence, and determining the quality of food and medical products.
Chemists are in sales, marketing, information specialties, supervisory, and executive positions.
Some 185,000 chemists play a major role in our nation's workforce and related industries produce a substantial amount of our exports. The faculty have specialties in analytical chemistry, biochemistry, environmental chemistry, inorganic chemistry, instrumental analysis, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, and radiation chemistry. Advanced chemistry classes are kept small to ensure that there is considerable opportunity for interaction with the instructor. Our faculty are dedicated to providing sound, balanced chemical instruction. The Chemistry Program has been approved by the American Chemical Society.