Delve into the exciting science of chemistry. Study the nature and structure of matter and the transformations that take place during chemical reactions. Explore the fundamental concepts of atomic and molecular structure, function and reactivity that create materials that make up everyday life. Conduct experiments in state-of-the-art labs using nuclear magnetic resonance and infrared spectroscopies, high performance liquid chromatography and other advanced instruments.
You’ll learn under the guidance of expert faculty who will become your mentors. They are focused on student research and help you will develop critical and independent thinking, enjoy a collegial exchange of ideas and knowledge and learn the value of high ethical standards.
Required courses expand your knowledge of chemistry, physics and mathematics. Your program culminates with a capstone experience, a year of laboratory research with a faculty advisor and the opportunity to present your research findings at national scientific meetings.
Credits: 120
Contact:
Marc Sylvester
msylvester@pennwest.edu
814-732-1181
Accreditation through the American Chemical Society (ACS) ensures top-quality curriculum and laboratory experiences.
With regional and national chapters of the ACS and the Pittsburgh Conference on Analytical Chemistry and Applied Spectroscopy (Pitcon), the largest scientific conference in the world.
Equipped with state-of-the art materials, supplies and instruments.
Credits: 120
Location: California In-Person, Clarion In-Person, Edinboro In-Person
If you’re interested in studying the chemistry of life and how living organisms react to chemicals, this concentration is right for you.
You’ll gain insights into how you may work as a biochemist to research the effects of certain drugs, foods or materials on human or animal tissues and cells. Or how you can experiment with chemicals to create medicines and other beneficial substances.
Biochemists typically work in laboratories for pharmaceutical companies or other medicinal manufacturing companies. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of biochemists is projected to grow 15 percent from now until 2031—much faster than the average of other occupations.
Credits: 120
Location: California In-Person, Clarion In-Person, Edinboro In-Person
Are you fascinated with how chemistry relates to the world of crime scene investigation? This concentration will give you the skills you need to pursue a career in this growing field.
After completing this demanding program, you will be prepared to perform chemical and microscopic analyses on evidence taken from a crime scene and use DNA to explore possible links between suspects and criminal activity.
As a forensic chemist, you will be qualified to consult with experts in specialized fields, such as toxicology and prepare reports that validify your findings.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts there will be about 8,200 job openings for chemists and materials scientists each year over the next decade. While a bachelor’s degree in chemistry is needed for most jobs, a master’s degree or Ph.D. is required for research jobs in the field.
With your undergraduate degree in chemistry from PennWest, you will have the training you need to obtain entry-level positions as industrial chemists in the private or government sectors, as technical writers or as industrial sales personnel, as teachers or management in certain firms, or to advance your education in the fields of medicine, dentistry, pharmacy or the law.
Possible career paths include:
PennWest’s three campuses, California, Clarion and Edinboro universities, have been delivering award-winning online programs for more than 20 years. You’ll graduate with a degree from Pennsylvania Western University, completely supported by the expertise and community of learners on our brick-and-mortar campuses.