PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Chemistry Department provides students with a solid education in the scientific knowledge and experimental skills necessary for a career in chemistry and related fields. We emphasize current developments in chemistry and offer hands-on experience with modern instruments and laboratory techniques. In addition to classroom learning, we involve students in undergraduate research projects that develop critical thinking skills, provide practical experience, foster independence and create a sense of community among faculty and students. In this way, our students learn the fundamental theories of chemistry and experience the application of those theories.

DEGREE OPTIONS
Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in chemistry.

The Bachelor of Science program is certified by the American Chemical Society (ACS). Students preparing for graduate study or a professional career in chemistry should pursue the ACS-approved Bachelor of Science degree.

The Bachelor of Arts degree is designed for students who need undergraduate training in chemistry in preparation for professional careers other than chemistry, such as medicine, dentistry and veterinary science.

PROGRAM SIZE
Approximately 30 students are enrolled in the major.

FACULTY
The Chemistry Department includes 5 full-time faculty with doctorates in chemistry. Our scholarly interests include analytical, physical, organic, inorganic chemistry and biochemistry. All full-time faculty are engaged in teaching classes from the introductory to advanced levels and have active research project involving undergraduates.

ACADEMIC PREPARATION
No prerequisite high school courses or requirements are needed for enrollment in the chemistry program, but students should have a well-rounded academic high school curriculum. A strong background in mathematics is desirable.

SPECIAL OPPORTUNITIES/INTERNSHIPS
The department features modern teaching and research laboratories in which students use high-tech, state-of-the-art instruments routinely used in research and industry. We offer undergraduate research experiences during the school year and in the summer. We also help students locate summer internships such as the Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program administered by the National Science Foundation.

CAREER OPTIONS
The chemistry major prepares students for graduate school in chemistry and related fields such as biochemistry, molecular biology, medicinal chemistry, and pharmaceutical, forensic and environmental science. Significant portions of our graduates go on to medical school. The major also prepares students for careers in governmental laboratories and industry. Many of Drake's chemistry alumni have earned graduate degrees in chemistry, physics and medicine while many others have taken rewarding jobs in industry, government and academic institutions.

ORGANIZATIONS
Students are encouraged to use the chemistry resource room, take an active part in Chemistry Club activities and become student affiliate members of the ACS.