About

An overview and description of the Chemistry and Biochemistry departments at Denison University.

In its courses the department seeks to progressively develop skills in building qualitative and quantitative interpretation of chemical phenomena, in experimental analysis and design, and in written and oral communication of scientific ideas. Graduates of this program, grounded in a well-developed molecular worldview, are expected to explain the behavior of chemical and biological systems based on physical models. The department is also deeply committed to sustaining a vigorous and diverse range of collaborative student-faculty research. A community of mutual support among students, faculty, and staff is a vital element in achieving our goals.

The Chemistry and Biochemistry curriculum provides courses that are designed to enable students, as contributing professionals and engaged citizens, to deal effectively with a world increasingly dominated by the ideas and methods of modern science. Majors are qualified for immediate employment in industry. However, many elect to attend graduate school in chemistry, biochemistry, and related areas, or enter schools of medicine, dentistry, or engineering. The department is approved by the Committee on Professional Training of the American Chemical Society to offer a Certificate of Professional Training in Chemistry to students who satisfy certain requirements.

What do chemistry and biochemistry majors do after Denison?

Majors are qualified for immediate employment in industry. Many attend graduate school in chemistry, biochemistry, or related areas, or enter schools of medicine, dentistry, or engineering.

Accreditation by the American Chemical Society

The Denison University Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry is accredited by the Committee on Professional Training of the American Chemical Society. Denison students who earn a B.S. Chemistry Major and take two semesters of Senior Research to satisfy one of their 400-level course electives will earn an ACS Certificate of Professional Training in Chemistry.

Mission Statement

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry has two primary goals, which in practice are tightly interrelated. First, we seek to promote a level of scientific literacy and chemical understanding among all students taking courses in the department that will contribute to the University’s fundamental mission “to inspire and educate our students to become autonomous thinkers, discerning moral agents and active citizens of a democratic society.” Secondly, we will provide a rigorous and comprehensive program in chemistry and biochemistry suitable for those students pursuing careers in science and technology.