Chemistry

Major | Minor

Study the central science. Master chemical principles and lab operations. Springboard to a world of careers and post-graduate learning.

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Why Study Chemistry?

Chemistry connects the physical sciences with the life sciences. It brings a deeper understanding to the natural world. It illuminates the ways all scientific disciplines interact.

Studying chemistry will give you a variety of career choices: research and development, engineering, the allied health sciences, and business, among others.

Why Study Chemistry at Luther?

Luther’s chemistry department is nationally recognized by the American Chemical Society for our curriculum, faculty, and facilities. Your Luther chemistry degree can be certified by the American Chemical Society. This credential will distinguish you to employers and graduate and professional schools.

With flexible course tracks, you’ll have the opportunity to study abroad for a semester or a full year. You can also pursue a second major—all while graduating in four years.

On top of that, our professors care. Credentialed faculty will not only teach your courses but also be accessible outside the classroom. You’ll also be able to collaborate with these high-caliber scientists on research projects that tackle real-world problems.

Program Highlights

Research Opportunities

Explore specific facets of chemistry through research projects and independent study. Luther chemistry students can take part in research programs at institutions such as New York University, the University of Minnesota, and Boston University.

Nationally Recognized Program

Join a chemistry program that is one of only 10 higher education institutes in the state of Iowa approved by the American Chemical Society.

Well-Equipped Facilities

Chemistry courses take place in Sampson Hoffland Laboratories—a modern, well-equipped facility. You’ll have access to ample laboratory space and an impressive array of instruments for instruction and research. Learn to operate modern research-grade instruments such as the atomic absorption spectrometer, nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer, ultraviolet and visible spectrometers, gas chromatographs, high-performance liquid chromatograph, spectrofluorimeter, and lasers.

What You’ll Learn

As a Luther chemistry major, you’ll build a foundation in chemical principles and lab operations. You’ll graduate prepared for a variety of careers and for graduate or PhD programs.

Chemistry Major

Chemistry majors must complete required lab and classroom courses, one year of calculus, one year of physics, and at least two advanced lab experiences.

The American Chemical Society certified degree tract requires additional upper-level courses.

A biochemistry emphasis combines biology and chemistry.

Chemistry Minor

As a chemistry minor, you’ll take chemical principles, analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, and four credits in advanced chemistry courses.

Whether you choose to major or minor in chemistry, you’ll have a strong core of chemistry knowledge to succeed in the industry, post-secondary education, and public service.

Curriculum

Cecilia Douma
The most important skill I developed as a chemistry major was the ability to learn quickly and independently.
Cecilia Douma '16
CHEMISTRY MAJOR
Learn more about Cecilia Douma

Careers and Outcomes

Luther chemistry majors have strong placement rates following graduation. Within a year of graduating, 92 percent of graduates either seek advanced degrees or are employed. Luther chemistry majors are heavily recruited.

Career Fields

  • Medicine
  • Dentistry
  • Pharmacology
  • Environmental science
  • Energy science
  • Geology
  • Medicinal chemistry

Employers

  • Mayo Clinic
  • 3M
  • Vanicream
  • National Institutes of Health
  • Minnesota State Forensics Lab

Biochemistry

Biochemistry is one of the most exciting disciplines in science today. Discoveries by biochemists make advancements in disease prevention, environmental remediation, and more. The field holds important answers to questions about the roles our genetic code and the environment have in shaping our lives.

Are you struggling to decide between biology and chemistry? Do you see yourself working as a scientist in a role that makes a real difference? Biochemistry may be the perfect choice for you.

a person writing a chemical molecule structure on a chalk board

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