Discover. Create. Solve.
From developing life-saving medicines and sustainable materials to advancing clean
energy and protecting the environment, chemistry drives innovation across nearly every
aspect of modern life. In our ACS-accredited Chemistry program at Chapman University in Southern California, you'll learn how scientific discoveries
become real-world solutions.
Research Starting Day 1
As a Chemistry major, you won't just study science, you'll do science. Starting in your first year, you'll have opportunities to work alongside faculty on cutting-edge research projects, using advanced scientific instrumentation, to gain hands-on experience in the laboratory.
Many of our students present their work at scientific conferences, publish papers, and build relationships that open doors in new and exciting directions including
graduate school and professional careers.
Chemistry Across Industries
Our curriculum provides a strong foundation in chemistry while allowing you to explore a variety of STEM fields, including materials science, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, forensic science, environmental
science, and food science. We also prepare students for careers and advanced study in healthcare, including medicine
and other pre-health professions. And along the way, our students develop the critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and laboratory skills that employers and
graduate programs seek.
Chemistry graduates are always in demand. Whether you want to discover new medicines,
develop sustainable technologies, improve human health, or pursue a career in healthcare,
a chemistry degree provides the foundation.
Our graduates have gone on to become:
- Pharmaceutical and biotechnology professionals
- Healthcare professionals, including dentists and pharmacists
- Environmental scientists and sustainability specialists
- Science educators and communicators
- Materials scientists and engineers
- Laboratory managers and technical specialists
- Research scientists and chemists
- Analytical and quality control chemists
- Business, law, and science policy professionals
Research by the Numbers
Since 2020, the Chemistry and Biochemistry program at Chapman Univeristy has:
- Secured 24 external grants and awards totaling $3.9 million
- Received funding from leading organizations, including the National Science Foundation
(NSF), Department of Energy (DOE), NASA, American Chemical Society (ACS), and Arnold
& Mabel Beckman Foundation
- Published numerous peer-reviewed articles with undergraduate coauthors
Research Beyond the Classroom
At Chapman, student research is an integral part of our identity. Our majors have
the opportunity to work with faculty mentors on innovative research projects beginning
in their first year and continuing throughout their undergraduate experience. These
research experiences culminate in the Capstone project, where students complete an
independent, faculty-mentored investigation and showcase their work through professional
scientific presentations and written reports, synthesizing the knowledge, skills,
and critical thinking they have developed throughout the program.
To further enhance the research experience, we offer numerous fellowship opportunities
that provide financial support for students working alongside faculty in the laboratory:
- Schmid Summer Research Fellowship
- Faculty-sponsored externally funded research grants
These programs enable students to pursue independent research, present at scientific
conferences, contribute to publications, and gain valuable experience that prepares
them for their future careers.
Faculty
Our faculty are not only seasoned educators and researchers, but thjey are also committed
mentors who are dedicated to the success of our students. They will work closely with
you as you engage in their cutting-edge research and help you achieve your post-graduation
aspirations. Along the way, you will gain invaluable hands-on experience and benefit
from a highly personalized education.
Clubs and Organizations
Our program is proudly accredited by both the American Chemical Society (ACS) and
the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB), ensuring a rigorous
and comprehensive education. We have active, student-led chapters of these prestigious
organizations that collaborate closely with the program, offering students enriched
opportunities for professional development, research, and community engagement.
- American Chemical Society: Part of the world’s largest scientific society, the ACS chapter is dedicated to building
a vibrant, supportive community for aspiring scientists. We aim to provide career
guidance, promote awareness of opportunities, and actively engage with the local community
through outreach initiatives.
- American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB): The ASBMB chapter provides a platform for students to explore biochemistry and molecular
biology through professional development, research opportunities, and community outreach.
Schmid College of Science and Technology offers a wide variety of other STEM-focused
clubs and organizations. Throughout the year, they host exciting events, such as tie-dyeing
lab coats and making nitrogen ice cream — creating fun, hands-on experiences that
bring science and community together. You can explore some of the most popular options
on our STEM student organizations page, including:
- Women in Science and Technology: Get involved with this group of students and faculty who provide professional development
and mentoring to women in STEM fields.
- Schmid Student Leadership Council: Become an ambassador for Chapman's Schmid College of Science and Technology and promote
the sciences on campus and in the larger community.
