Chemistry
Individualized attention, great research opportunities and in depth instruction — these are the hallmarks of the Central College chemistry department. Chemistry majors at Central take the same courses as students at larger institutions but have greater opportunities for research and mentoring due to the one-on-one attention received by the Central faculty. The chemistry department is certified by the prestigious American Chemical Society which means graduates are ensured to have a strong scientific background needed for graduate school or careers in chemistry.
Successful Careers
A chemistry major from Central opens the door to diverse career options such as basic research, medicine, pharmacology, public health, biochemistry, teaching, industrial lab work, environmental testing and forensic science. In addition, chemistry majors at Central are eligible for admission to the chemical engineering programs at Washington University in St. Louis and Iowa State University following completion of their junior year. Past chemistry graduates have gone on to become research chemists, criminalists and health professionals. Graduates include:
Internships
Looking for experience? An internship might be the answer. When it comes to future employment or entrance into graduate school, students with internship experience have a proven track record in a professional environment.
Recent internships include:
Learn more about internships at Central.
Courses
The chemistry department offers a strong foundation in concepts and laboratory skills needed for successful careers in chemistry or the health professions.
* Required for American Chemical Society certification.
Get more details from the course catalog! (Note: this is a PDF file)
Option I
Freshman year
Sophomore year
Junior year
Senior Year
Option II
Freshman year
Sophomore year
Junior year
Senior Year
Facilities
The Vermeer Science Center recently went through a $20-million renovation and expansion that was completed in fall 2003. In addition to biology, chemistry, physics and natural science departments, the mathematics and computer science departments are located in Vermeer. The building contains 13 high-tech classrooms. Each contains a ceiling-mounted projector, computer with flat panel monitor, Wolfvision document camera, combination VCR/DVD player and a Ken-a-vision flex camera. Vermeer also contains several computer labs with new Dell computers with flat panel monitors and the most recent versions of math and science computer programs. Numerous science laboratories with state-of-the-art science equipment allow students to conduct their own research. Just inside the main entrance is an easy-to-use touchscreen kiosk with a building directory that can be searched by room or professor’s name. Central was awarded a silver Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) medal rating from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), making the science center the first LEED-rated building in the state. The chemistry department maintains state-of-the-art instrument research equipment including NMR, IR, AA, GC, HPLC, UV-VIS, and luminescence
Departmental Web site
The chemistry program maintains its own Web site with even more information about majoring in chemistry at Central College and numerous research opportunities with Central faculty.
Organizations
No matter what your interests are, Central has a student group or organization that you’ll want to join! Student groups include:
Study Abroad
Students are encouraged to study abroad with one of Central’s eight international programs to enhance their development as global citizens, or with Central’s Chicago program and the Washington, D.C., program. Learn more about about Central’s study abroad programs.
