Department of Chemistry
Chemistry Programs Overview
The Chemistry Department at ESF offers degrees from the BS through PhD. We also offer both a research-based Masters (the MS) and a coursework-based Masters (the MPS). Faculty and staff are invested in the success of our students!
Bachelor of Science Programs
We offer two B.S. degrees (Biochemistry and Chemistry). Students in both programs take the same courses for the first two years, and then their paths diverge somewhat.
Students in the Chemistry major choose a specialization by their senior year in one of the following areas: Biochemistry, Environmental Chemistry, and Polymer Chemistry. Three in-depth courses in these areas prepare students to jump into employment or further professional or academic study.
Students in the Biochemistry major take three core biochemistry courses alongside students in the Biochemistry option of the Chemistry major. Biochemistry majors are required to take genetics and another 12 credits from a range of biochemistry-focused courses. So Biochemistry majors can tailor their education to their future goals.
Graduate Programs
Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctoral (Ph.D.) programs
After taking coursework as preparation, students in both the MS and PhD programs focus on original research.
- Biochemistry: mostly plant and microbial with an environmental focus
- Environmental Chemistry: natural and perturbed processes in air, soil, and water; environmental biochemistry; sustainable materials and processes
- Organic Natural Products Chemistry and Chemical Ecology*: identifying and synthesizing defense and signaling compounds produced by vegetation and insects
- Polymer Chemistry: synthesis and characterization of novel materials; design of new processes, especially for sustainability
* Degrees in Chemical Ecology are administered jointly with the Department of Environmental Biology.
Master of Professional Studies (M.P.S.) Programs
The Master of Professional Studies (MPS), unlike, the MS, does not require original research. It serves working professionals as well as full-time students.
The MPS in Chemistry empowers students to choose the courses that fit their particular goals. MPS students have the option to specialize in one of the focus areas listed above, but have the freedom to more narrowly tailor their studies.
The MPS in Chemical Ecology focuses on organismal interactions mediated by chemical substances, both within and between species. This program is offered in cooperation with the Department of Environmental Biology.