Build your foundations in chemistry in the classroom, the laboratory and beyond. You will be trained in a curriculum approved by the Committee on Professional Training of the American Chemical Society and be well-prepared for immediate employment as a chemist or for admission to graduate or professional school. With the opportunity to earn either a B.A. or a B.S. degree, the chemistry department places a strong emphasis on faculty-student research and encourages all students to discuss the possibility of doing research with a professor.
"Organic Chemistry I and II ignited my passion for organic synthesis by challenging me in both the classroom and the lab. These courses were a perfect segue to now doing research as part of Professor of Chemistry Justin Miller's lab. The research has proved to be an invaluable experience that is preparing me for my goal of pursing a Ph.D. in chemistry once I graduate."
Chemistry students looking to engage more in their work can study and complete Honors and research projects in a chosen topic with the guidance of a faculty mentor.
Past examples of Honors projects include:
Educate policy makers about the effects humans have on local plant life or build on research you start in the classroom with local, national or international organizations or universities.
At Hobart and William Smith, learning goes beyond textbooks and classrooms. You’ll gain high-impact practical experience that deepens learning and opens doors.
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Study molecular chemistry in Australia or nanoscience in South Africa.
Wherever you go, our top-ranked global education program will allow you to apply classroom knowledge, develop cultural understanding and build global connections that expand your personal capacity and sense of purpose.
Launched in 2021, the STEM Scholars program offers opportunities for academic support and financial aid to underrepresented students in science and mathematics programs.
Grow your understanding of chemistry to take on the challenges of today and create the solutions of tomorrow.
Gain the fundamentals in the study of organic molecules, in addition to structure, mechanism, reactions, synthesis, and practical methods for structure determination.
Explore the scientific concepts and technologies that are used in solving crimes.
As the first of a two-part course, develop your understanding of the structure, function, and physical properties of biological macromolecules.
At HWS, you’ll study chemistry with some of the best equipment available, and that’s not just our word.
Rosenberg Hall, where the chemistry department is located, was described “among the best – if not the best-designed undergraduate science teaching-learning, research facilities we have ever seen” by The Council on Undergraduate Research.
Between Rosenberg Hall and adjoining Lansing Hall, there are six instructional labs, five student-faculty research laboratories, three instrument rooms, a prep room, chemical storage rooms and a computer lab.
Additionally, you can study chemistry on the water aboard the William Scandling research vessel and make use of equipment like a high-resolution sub bottom profiler, side-scan sonar and current meters.
"The research opportunities, rigorous course work and small class sizes prepared me for graduate school because I was able to form more personal connections with my professors and peers."
