The Department of Chemistry believes that undergraduate research plays a major role in developing critical thinking, practical expertise, and independence and helps create a sense of community among faculty and students. Participation in a research project is a requirement for a chemistry degree. The chemistry faculty has research expertise in analytical chemistry, biochemistry, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, and physical chemistry.

Students preparing for graduate study or a professional career in chemistry should pursue the American Chemical Society-approved Bachelor of Science program. The Bachelor of Arts program is designed for students who need undergraduate training in chemistry in preparation for professional careers other than chemistry. The Bachelor of Science program is also open to those students.

The Department of Chemistry has seven full-time faculty, all with Ph.D.s. They are active in obtaining grants to support the program and in developing new teaching strategies. A number of them have received teaching awards. Their research interests are physical chemistry, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, and analytical chemistry.