Chemistry is often known as the central science,
bridging the gap between the life sciences and physical science,
and ranging from the very practical to the highly theoretical. It
is the science of matter - its structure, its properties and how it
changes.
All around us we see the discoveries of chemistry:
synthetic fabrics, aspirin, penicillin and other pharmaceuticals,
detergents, better fuels, plastics and more abundant food. Chemists
enjoy the excitement and rewards of discovery and creation.
Career opportunities exist in research (creating new
knowledge or synthesizing new chemicals) or in quality control
(testing and analysis) in pharmaceuticals, petroleum, polymer and
plastics, paints and adhesives, electronic materials, waste
treatment, agricultural chemistry, and foods and fragrances, in
addition to many other industries. Chemists are employed in
hospitals, clinical, environmental control and criminology
laboratories. Chemistry also occupies a pivotal role in the
high-technology areas of bioinformatics, biotechnology, materials
technology, ceramics, polymers and electronic materials. The
Stevens program prepares you for employment with companies in these
industries, and for graduate programs in chemistry or
biochemistry.
The program is based on a solid foundation in the major
areas of chemistry and biochemistry. Additional courses in advanced
chemistry are available in those areas in which Stevens has unique
strengths, such as polymer chemistry, natural products, medicinal
chemistry, biochemistry, computational chemistry and instrumental
analysis. Research is strongly encouraged due to its importance in
preparing for a career in chemistry; it also helps develop
independence in solving open-ended problems.
The Stevens chemistry program is certified by the
American Chemical Society (ACS). The course sequence for chemistry
is as follows:
