Chemistry

What can you do with a chemistry degree?

Chemistry is the study of matter and the processes that shape the world around us. From developing new medicines and sustainable materials to protecting the environment and advancing technology, chemistry helps answer some of today's most important scientific questions.

At Wooster, you'll build a strong foundation in chemical theory while spending significant time in the laboratory applying what you learn. Through close faculty mentorship, undergraduate research, and hands-on experience with advanced scientific instrumentation, you'll graduate with the knowledge and practical experience to pursue graduate study or careers across science, medicine, industry, and many other fields.

Research from the Start

Many chemistry majors participate in undergraduate research before beginning Senior Independent Study.

Advanced Instrumentation

Work with professional-grade equipment, including NMR and high-resolution mass spectrometry, throughout your research experience.

Student-Centered Learning

Learn in small classes where faculty prioritize mentorship, collaboration, and student success.

Why Study Chemistry at Wooster?

Study in a program accredited by the American Chemical Society since 1946.

Join one of the nation's leading undergraduate chemistry programs. Wooster ranks among the top four-year institutions for graduates who go on to earn Ph.D.s in chemistry.

Participate in research early, both on campus and through summer research opportunities.

Work with advanced scientific instrumentation typically found at much larger institutions.

Learn from faculty who put student success first through close mentoring in the classroom and the laboratory.

Discover through research.

Research is central to the Chemistry experience at Wooster. Many students begin working alongside faculty well before Senior Independent Study, gaining valuable laboratory experience and developing the confidence to pursue independent scientific questions.

Students work with advanced instrumentation, contribute to faculty-led research, participate in summer research experiences, and complete a yearlong Independent Study project that prepares them for graduate school and professional careers.

Ready to Explore Chemistry?

Whether you're interested in medicine, research, environmental science, or developing the next scientific breakthrough, Chemistry at Wooster provides the knowledge, research experience, and faculty mentorship to help you achieve your goals.

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Career Opportunities

Chemistry graduates are highly sought after because of their research experience and hands-on training with modern scientific instrumentation.

Many also continue to graduate study in chemistry and related scientific fields.

Key Areas

Wooster alumni have built careers in:

Scientific research

Medicine

Pharmacy

Nursing

Patent law

Science communication

Green energy

Investment banking

Venture capital

Where Our Alumni Go

Chemistry graduates have worked with organizations including:

AbbVie
AstraZeneca
BASF
Eli Lilly
Pfizer
Corteva
Procter & Gamble
Lubrizol
Goodyear
ExxonMobil
Halliburton
DARPA
Environmental Protection Agency
National Science Foundation
Boehringer Ingelheim
Battelle
Charles River Laboratories
Library of Congress
J.P. Morgan Securities

Scholarships & Student Opportunities

Students interested in Chemistry or Biochemistry & Molecular Biology may be eligible for the Herrick L. Johnston Scholarship, which provides a $5,000 scholarship during the first year and may include opportunities for mentored research or laboratory assistant positions.

The department also recognizes outstanding achievement through numerous scholarships, prizes, and national awards presented each year to Chemistry and BCMB students.