About the Department

Chemistry and Biochemistry Faculty

Chemistry Department Website

Chemistry is primarily concerned with matter, energy, and their interactions. Chemists do a wide variety of things:

• Make new substances, including new materials and medicines.
• Design new ways to make known compounds.
• Isolate and determine chemical structures of naturally occurring substances.
• Elucidate the chemical mechanisms behind biological processes.
• Attempt to explain the changes matter undergoes.
• Develop and apply analytical techniques to identify and quantify chemicals in biological, environmental, developmental, or industrial samples.
• Work in the chemical industry, do research in science labs and medical labs, and apply chemical knowledge to solve societal and technological problems.
• Prepare for a professional health care career 

Chemists are also concerned about the effect their work and technology have on society and on individuals. They are in the forefront of efforts to make sure that technology serves society and stewards resources well.

Our Mission

The curriculum is designed to serve students who desire a career in chemistry, biochemistry, or science education, or are interested in pursuing further study in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, engineering, or the other sciences.

Majors

Minors

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates with degrees in chemistry and biochemistry have many options. SPU alumni are working at places such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Washington State Patrol Forensic Lab, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Los Alamos National Laboratories, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Bristol-Meyer/Squibb, Seattle Biomedical Research Institute, Rapigene, May Clinic and a wide variety of public and private schools.

Many alumni have also entered medical school or other graduate programs at such places as the University of Washington, Johns Hopkins University, Washington State University, and Georgetown University.

Future Teachers

If you are interested in teaching Chemistry at the middle school to high school level, you should plan to complete the Chemistry (BA) major along with the Secondary Certification program through the School of Education. This program leads to an endorsement in Chemistry for grades 5-12.

Contact the School of Education for complete information on the certification program.