Chemistry

MajorMinor3YRBachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science

Unlock your chemical potential.

The Chemistry program at Butler provides an exceptional undergraduate degree that places a strong emphasis on experiential learning and problem-solving. As a student in this program, you’ll have the unique opportunity to actively engage in collaborative research alongside dedicated faculty, fostering a personalized learning experience tailored to your specific interests. This hands-on approach is complemented by access to state-of-the-art instrumentation, further enhancing the educational journey. Additionally, you’ll benefit from valuable internships within local chemical and pharmaceutical companies, gaining real-world insights and practical skills.

With graduate retention rates surpassing the national STEM norm, Butler’s Chemistry major can transform you into an accomplished scholar, prepared for success in the dynamic field of chemistry.

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Project Information

Curriculum

Sample courses in this program include:

CH 107 – Advanced General Chemistry
PH 201 – Introduction to Analytical Physics
CH 321 – Analytical Chemistry 1
CH 425 – Environmental Chemistry
CH 463 – Biochemistry Laboratory 2

See all Chemistry major curriculum information

See all Chemistry minor curriculum information

Three-Year Program

The Chemistry major can be completed in a total of three years if students bring in at least ten credits from high school. Students must also plan to take courses during both summer terms. More information can be found here.

The Butler Advantage

As Chemistry majors, students will learn to:

Understand key concepts related to the physical and chemical properties of matter. In particular, we are looking at four broad areas: Synthesis, Kinetics and Reactivity, Characterization/Analysis, and Thermodynamic and Physical Properties.

Communicate within and outside the chemical discipline.

Develop problem-solving skills through experimentation and analysis.

Appreciate the relationships among integrity, science, and society.

Understand how to work safely in a laboratory setting.

“The unique opportunity to be a part of a high level of independent undergraduate research is simply unmatched by many institutions and was such an integral part of my evolution as a scientist and a person. I truly believe I would not be where I am today without this department and its faculty members.”

Dominique Stephens ’14, PhD
Postdoctoral Fellow
Damo/Hinton Lab
Fisk/Vanderbilt University

Sciences Complex

Butler’s new Sciences Complex includes high-tech classrooms that promote learning by doing, labs that mimic the set-up at top research companies, and work spaces encouraging cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Day in the Life of a Butler Chemistry Major

Chemistry FAQs

Butler’s Chemistry and Biochemistry graduates work as chemists in local and national companies, study at some of the top medical, dental, and optometry schools in the country, and pursue areas outside of science such as law, sales, and education. Some careers include, but are not limited to:

Chemical technician
Synthetic Chemist
Geo chemist
Oceanographer
Pharmacologist

A chemistry degree is a versatile choice for careers across a variety of industries, such as pharmaceuticals, environmental science, cosmetics, manufacturing, and food science, to name a few.

Chemistry is often referred to as the “central science.” It plays a role in the discovery of better medicines, the development of safer chemicals for household use, and in the development of the next generation of electronic gadgets. An essential aspect of chemistry is the necessity of doing these things sustainably. The skills gained from a Chemistry degree can be applied not just to careers in chemistry, but also to careers in healthcare, law, business, and education and to the pursuit of advanced degrees in a variety of fields.

learn more about the chemistry program

About the Department About the Program

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Whatever path you’re interested in pursuing, there’s a place for you at Butler.

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