Chemistry
Chemistry
What You’ll Study
Do you enjoy asking questions or conducting experiments? Do you thrive when faced with a challenge? If so, chemistry could be the major for you. A chemist studies physical substances (matter) and how they interact with the world around them. During experiments, you will explore matter and reactions, and you will create new substances. Research real-life questions in areas like pharmacology, medicine, and forensics.
Queens offers two chemistry degrees. The Bachelor of Arts (BA) combines chemistry, biology, and physics with basic mathematics but allows students to pair classes with other liberal arts classes. It’s perfect for students interested in chemistry but applying knowledge outside the laboratory. For example, a technical writer specializing in chemistry would need a depth of chemistry knowledge but may not need as much research experience.
The Bachelor of Science (BS) focuses more on mathematics and research skills. If you’re planning to attend medical school, work as a chemist in industrial settings, as an environmental scientist, or as an employee in pharmaceutical or manufacturing laboratories then this is the choice for you.
Biodiesel Fuel Project
The EPA is supporting an exciting 2-year project entitled Biodiesel Production from Ethanol and Glycerol: a Living Laboratory for STEM Students. This project aims to build a biodiesel reactor that will convert 50 gallons of used cooking oil each month. Students and professors at Queens developed a new way to use glycerol, a useful byproduct, to create an anhydrous catalyst. This catalyst will bind ethanol to triglyceride oils, resulting in renewable fuel. Together, we are paving the way for a sustainable future!
How Can You Use These Degrees?
Graduates are prepared to enter the pharmaceutical, forensic, bioenergy, analytical and synthetic chemistry workforce. Or they are prepared to pursue graduate studies in chemistry, biochemistry, medical, dental, and veterinary schools. Some types of employers include:
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- Food & Drug Administration
- Pharmaceutical Companies
- Crime Labs & Police Departments
- Private Research Labs
- Medical Facilities
- Agricultural Companies
- Biotechnology Firms
- U.S. Department of Energy
Highlighted Courses
- Organic Chemistry (CHM 303)
- Analytical Chemistry (CHM 305)
- Instrumental Analysis (CHM 307)
- Physical Chemistry (CHM 308)
- Senior Research Capstone (CHM 495)
Program Contact
Patricia Koplas, PhD, PT
Z Smith Reynolds Foundation Professor of Biology
Chair of Biology and Chemistry Department
Pre-Health and Pre-Vet Advisor
koplasp@queens.edu
704-337-2203