Chemistry is concerned with the properties, composition and structure of matter and the changes that matter undergoes. These changes are seen as chemical reactions. Matter is the physical material of the universe. Chemistry is both a practical and a theoretical science since solutions to theoretical questions often lead to far reaching practical consequences
The Department of Chemistry offers two undergraduate degrees. The Bachelor of Science degree is intended for the professional chemist; the program is mathematically rigorous and meets the standards set by the American Chemical Society. The Bachelor of Arts degree provides the opportunity for a broader curriculum that can include some additional preparation in another science. A minor in chemistry is also offered by the department.
The opportunities for training and enrichment go beyond the lecture laboratory courses. Many chemistry majors are involved in research projects with the faculty, and other independent study is possible. In addition, there are part-time job opportunities on faculty research projects and with the teaching staff in undergraduate laboratories, and a program has been established which allows students to study at the University of Salford, England. You may request a copy of the "Opportunities in Chemistry,'' booklet for more details on these matters.
The University provides financial support to qualified students in any area of study in the form of grants-in-aid, loans, work projects, and scholarships which reward academic achievement. The Department of Chemistry awards the Henry R. Kreider and the Arthur H. Black Scholarships to junior and senior chemistry majors with outstanding scholastic records. Several additional awards and prizes are also given each year.
The Department of Chemistry shares an unusually well-equipped building with the departments of Biology and Geology and the College of Pharmacy. An excellent array of modern high-quality instrumentation for use by students is available within the building in the Department, in the Arts and Sciences Instrumentation Center, and in the Ohio Crystallography Consortium.
The most important asset of the Department of Chemistry is its faculty. Faculty members are personally dedicated to providing excellent undergraduate teaching from a modern standpoint. They maintain a high level of professional competence by engaging in chemical research, by directing graduate degree programs, and by other professional activities. Members of the faculty have established nationally and internationally recognized research groups. Direct personal interaction between faculty members and chemistry majors is a significant component of the course of study.
A chemist usually has a degree at the Baccalaureate, Masters or Doctoral level. Chemists can be employed in industry where they use their education, skills, and creativity to solve problems and develop new products and ventures for their employer. Chemists can be employed in government--either local, state, or federal. Often, government chemists work in large, specialized laboratories sponsored by specific agencies such as the National Institutes of Health, Department of Energy, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, or a Defense Agency. Chemists also can be employed by educational institutions ranging from high schools to universities. Some chemists start their own businesses or work as consultants. Many branch out of their field of training; for instance, a disproportionately high fraction of corporate presidents are chemists who rose through the Research and Development Department of their company. A former Prime Minister of Great Britain, Margaret Thatcher, is a chemist by training.
Unemployment among chemists is very low. At the worst of times it rose to 2% on a national basis. In good times the best candidates have a multitude of choices at attractive salaries. Chemistry is a field that is challenging and interesting for study. That it offers a rewarding professional life is a fact.
Many students who complete a B.S. degree in chemistry continue their studies in graduate school. In the past few years our students have gone on to Ohio State, Michigan, Penn State, and the University of California at Berkeley. among other schools.