Students not taking a first or second major in chemistry may earn an area minor in chemistry or environmental chemistry. The requirements for students with a first or second major in applied biology or chemical engineering are different from those majoring in other disciplines. See the course catalog for details.
A biochemistry degree will prepare you for research, medical school, and related fields. Many graduates pursue masters and doctoral degrees in chemistry, biochemistry, medicinal chemistry, materials science, or environmental science, among others.
- 138 Required Credits
- 56 Elective Credits
194
Total Credits
A chemistry degree will prepare you for research, medical school and related fields. Many graduates pursue masters and doctoral degrees in chemistry, biochemistry, medicinal chemistry, materials science, or environmental science.
- 121 Required Credits
- 72 Elective Credits
193
Total Credits
The biochemistry & molecular biology program is meant to augment other majors, and is available as a second major only. Chemistry or chemical engineering majors will find this track easiest since there is considerable overlap among program requirements.
- 69 Required Credits
- 12 Elective Credits
81
Total Credits
Master's Programs
You may pursue either the Master of Science in Chemistry (MSCHEM) degree, that requires a thesis and a publication, or the Master of Chemistry (MCHEM) degree, that does not require a thesis or a publication, but instead requires 12 credit hours of additional course work. See course catalog for details.
Undergraduate Research
You'll be in the lab early and often, working with faculty mentors who are passionate about seeing you succeed.
Careers in Chemistry & Biochemistry
Because chemistry touches every aspect of human life, your career opportunities are limited only by your imagination. From academia, research, and medicine to consumer goods, government, analytical laboratories, museums, and software publishers.
Biochemist
Biochemists use knowledge of chemistry to find solutions to biological problems, tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges and enhancing quality of life. Some biochemists work in a clinical setting to help diagnose diseases, while others may focus on forensics or research.
Product Development Scientist
Product development scientists work in many different industries, ensuring their organizationmeets government regulations for safety and quality, or developing and enhancing products to meet customer demands. They may find themselves developing new flavors of their favorite food products or helping ensure the safety of cosmetics.
Cancer Researcher
Every day, researchers are using chemistry to unlock new clues in the search for a cure, and reaching discoveries that enable better treatment options and allow patients to live longer.Cancer researchers may use genomics to determine patient risk, or develop immunotherapy methods that allow patients’ own immune systems to fight the disease.
Dr. Ross Weatherman
Department Head and Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry Dr. Ross Weatherman has received the Board of Trustees Outstanding Scholar Award and was an American Cancer Society Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of California, San Francisco. He leads a team of high-achieving students in researching the role of estrogen in the development and treatment of breast cancer. Their work seeks to improve existing drugs, resulting in better treatments with fewer side effects. The value of his research has been recognized with grants totaling $2 million from the National Institutes of Health and the U.S. Army. Dr. Weatherman also has developed strong collaborations with the Indiana University School of Medicine and has authored more than 20 peer-reviewed research publications.
Contact Us
Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry
Moench Hall C205
5500 Wabash Avenue
Terre Haute, IN 47803
812-877-8166
Moench Hall C205
5500 Wabash Avenue
Terre Haute, IN 47803
812-877-8166