Chemistry

The Science Behind the Familiar

Major: Chemistry | Biochemistry
Minor: Chemistry

Chemistry stands at the pivot of science. On the one hand it deals with biology and provides explanations for the processes of life. On the other hand it mingles with physics and finds explanations for chemical phenomena in the fundamental processes and particles of the universe. Chemistry links the familiar with the fundamental.
-P.W. Atkins

As Atkins explains, chemistry can be applied to a variety of scientific fields, making a Lycoming chemistry degree scientifically interdisciplinary. Our curriculum illuminates the complexities behind many processes and occurrences of everyday life. With one of the most highly esteemed undergraduate facilities in the East, Lycoming equips students with valuable hands-on lab experiences and a foundational understanding of chemistry that will prepare them for careers in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, secondary education, or graduate/professional schools.

Student Opportunities

• Work on research projects alongside faculty during the academic year or over the summer.
• Examine the quality of water and coffee in the Dominican Republic during May Term.
• Study green coffee stability through a collaboration with Alabaster Coffee Roaster and Tea Company.
• Gain valuable teaching experience as a laboratory assistant, a course tutor, or a study group facilitator.
• Pursue a competitive chemistry internship at a company such as Avery Dennison, Croda Inc., U.S. Geological Survey, or the Williamsport Municipal Water Authority.
• Present research at local and regional conferences.
• Collaborate with local schools and groups to put on demonstrations and laboratory experiences.
• Complete an internship at a local company through the WISE program.
• Work toward induction into Gamma Sigma Epsilon National Chemistry Honor Society.

Why Lycoming?

1. Significant laboratory experience prepares students for life in academic, industrial, and government laboratories following graduation.
2. Published faculty holding the highest degrees in their field teach in low student-to-faculty ratio classroom and laboratory settings.
3. Students have access to modern chemical instrumentation in all courses starting their first year such as a nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer, an infrared spectrometer and a scanning electron microscope.
4. All chemistry faculty have active personal research projects with substantial opportunities for undergraduate student participation.

Why Lycoming is the Right Choice →