B.S. in Chemistry

Chemistry is a diverse field that involves the study of the properties, composition, and structure of substances.

At JMU, the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry is large enough to offer modern laboratories and advanced instrumentation, and small enough for students to gain hands-on experience with this research-grade equipment and to pursue individualized programs of study. Our faculty members specialize in all major areas of chemistry, including organic/inorganic chemistry, environmental chemistry, computational chemistry, and a variety of other subdisciplines.

The Chemistry major focuses on the study of the composition and behavior of matter, emphasizing hands-on learning. Students take foundational lecture and laboratory courses in all sub-disciplines of chemistry: analytical, biochemistry, inorganic, organic, and physical. There are opportunities to take advanced courses in these areas, as well as courses in cross-disciplinary areas such as environmental, materials, nuclear, and polymers.

The undergraduate experience is further enhanced by participation in undergraduate research with a faculty member, using modern laboratories and state-of-the-art instrumentation. Conducting research and presenting results builds technical, critical thinking, and communication skills that are highly valued by graduate and professional schools, as well as industry and government employers.

We know that success requires equal parts intellect and action. At JMU, that’s what Being the Change is all about.

When students graduating from James Madison University proudly walk across the stage to receive their diplomas, they’re more than just educated. They’re members of a fellowship of doers. They know how to make things happen. They’ve honed their ability to think critically. They’ve learned the importance of a strong work ethic and they’ve become committed to and skilled at collaborating with others. Diplomas in hand, they leave campus determined to live lives of meaning and pursue careers of purpose.

Only two hours from Washington D.C., JMU is fast becoming one of the nation’s leading lights in higher education. That’s because students enjoy unusually engaged relationships with world-class faculty who are at JMU because they want to pursue knowledge and teach talented students.

JMU students, faculty and alumni are using equal parts intellect and action to succeed in every sort of pursuit: they’re boosting innovation and discovery, leading in business, advancing culture, improving health care, reforming education, renewing civil society, competing in athletics — they’re Being the Change in every imaginable way.