It's Elemental.
Few undergraduate degrees offer more career potential than chemistry. Industry and government agencies need the chemist's unique skills. Public and private schools will seek your teaching ability. With your degree, you can also take the leap to PhD programs or pursue your dream of entering medical school.
Why Chemistry?
The study of matter and energy and their interactions inform every aspect of life. Chemistry explains the mysteries of life so that you understand how and why things work the way they do.
The World Needs Chemistry Majors
Chemistry is about problem solving and critical thinking. It plays a role in consumable goods, the clothing you wear, and the water you drink.
"Everything is Chemistry"
"Chemistry, the study of matter and change, has always fascinated me. From the clothes on our backs to the stars in the sky, everything is chemistry. IUP has a great staff and excellent equipment, which makes it a very fulfilling major. Due to the rigor of the courses, classes are very small and personal."
Charles Culbertson, Class of 2015, William and Audrey Madia Scholarship recipient
The study of chemistry is also an integral part of creating and using progressive medicines and fighting pollutants. The subject also connects other important sciences such as biology, biochemistry, physics, and geology.
Expected Outcomes With an Undergraduate Degree in Chemistry
Your degree provides so many paths to success that an exhaustive list is impossible to assemble. Your knowledge has the power to give you meaningful employment immediately upon graduation. The undergraduate degree is also a launchpad to academic PhD programs, medicine, law, and interdisciplinary sectors such as forensics, food science, and environmental issues.
- Apply your knowledge to industries such as hydraulic fracturing by preparing to join a quality control department.
- Pursue a career as a research chemist by advancing to graduate studies.
- Collaborate with your professors on research projects, and then co-write presentation papers for publication.
- Aspire to a career as a physician or patent law expert by transitioning from undergraduate studies to medical or law school.
The IUP Difference
Big school options. The facilities and options at IUP match those that can be found at Pennsylvania's largest campuses, yet the engagement with faculty and other students is small-town friendly. One-on-one tutelage is common and intended to keep you focused on your goals.
Labs and research with professors. You'll learn both in the classroom and in the research lab with your professors. By assisting your instructors in research, you are better prepared to meet the demands of your coursework.
Quality guidance. Chemistry faculty give significant amounts of time to students in advisory roles. By working directly with a faculty member when making academic decisions, you are more likely to be pleased with your career choice.