Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry enjoys a solid reputation for providing high quality education, conducting outstanding research with faculty who strive to be the best teachers and mentors for our students.

Why Choose Chemistry or Biochemistry at USD?

Coursework in chemistry and biochemistry is designed to prepare students for a variety of options and career paths following graduation.  Our programs in chemistry and biochemistry are recognized by the American Chemical Society providing our graduates the opportunity to have an accredited degree. Our biochemistry degree follows the professional principles of the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology ensuring all graduates an exceptional experience. Junior and senior years offer an integrated laboratory/lecture experience in organic/physical chemistry, inorganic/physical chemistry, biophysical chemistry, instrumental methods, and biochemistry.

Our students are given a strong foundation in the principles and practices of modern chemistry and biochemistry within the framework of a liberal arts education. All students are able to conduct research giving them critical hands-on learning with sophisticated instrumentation and computer equipment. Many students are able to work with their research mentor for several years.

Our students continue their education at prestigious graduate and medical programs throughout the country. Recent graduates have entered doctoral programs at universities such as University of California, Los Angeles, Cal Tech, MIT, Vanderbilt, Johns Hopkins, Yale and Scripps Research Institute. Other recent graduates have entered medical or pharmacy programs at institutions such as Creighton University, Thomas Jefferson University and many in the University of California system. Many of our graduates enter the workforce starting interesting and exciting careers in chemistry and biochemistry. Some of the recent companies include organizations like Pfizer, Proctor and Gamble, Pharmatek and Genomics Foundation of Novartis, to name just a few. 

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Engaged Faculty

Students' relationships with their faculty create productive research opportunities, effective advising and career counseling, as well as opportunities for recommendations for medical and graduate schools.

Student Research Opportunities

Our students must complete at least 100 hours of undergraduate research, so each student gains valuable experience that enhances their professional pursuits, as well as solidifies their knowledge of concepts and procedures.

Advanced Faculty Research

Exposure to active research conducted by faculty encourages a climate of academic excellence and provides students with opportunities to co-publish with faculty advisors. Faculty serve as models of what students could accomplish if they choose to pursue advanced degrees.

Liberal Arts Foundation

Students have a well-rounded liberal arts foundation upon which their chemistry/biochemistry knowledge is built. This provides a holistic perspective of how chemistry/ biochemistry can affect other facets of the human experience.

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