Chemistry, B.A., B.S.
I have had the privilege to work in the Deanna Dahlke Ojennus Lab doing biochemistry research on a prolyl aminodipeptidase from Lb. helveticus. Working in research has enhanced my ability to think critically and troubleshoot. It has significantly improved my ability to read and comprehend scientific literature and given me a deeper understanding of how the scientific method is really carried out. Additionally, I got to go to the American Chemical Society conference in Atlanta, Ga., to present a poster on my research. It was a full-circle experience to be able to teach others about the project and to hear new perspectives and ideas on where we could go next.
Ask our faculty
Have questions? Our faculty are here to share their expertise and help you learn more about this program.
Ask Associate Professor Breno
Associate Professor Kerry Breno teaches Organic Chemistry and Inorganic Chemistry. Her interests include organometallic catalysts and fluorescence.
Faculty PageAsk Professor Davis
Professor Eric Davis teaches General Chemistry and Analytical Chemistry. His interests include instrument development, quantitative analysis and environmental chemistry.
Faculty PageAsk Associate Professor Trisha Russell
Associate Professor Trisha Russell teaches Organic Chemistry and Spectroscopy. Her interests include medicinal chemistry and drug design.
Faculty PageAsk Professor Kraig Wheeler
Professor Kraig Wheeler specializes in topics such as molecular engineered functional materials and solid-state organic reactions. He often teaches classes related to organic chemistry.
Faculty PageOur chemistry grads make a difference (and get jobs)
Whitworth chemistry graduates are prepared for a variety of careers in the chemical, biological, forensic, medical and environmental fields. They are qualified for positions in research and development in academic, industrial and government laboratories. The degree also prepares students for graduate study in chemistry, medicine, dentistry and pharmacy, as well as potentially law, education and business.
Our graduates are working in a variety of positions and fields, including:
- Stephanie Ryder, research technician, The Benaroya Research Institute, Seattle
- Amy Winter, associate dentist, Harbor Square Dental, Edmonds, Wash.
- Sara Lutz, academic hospitalist physician, Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center, Albuquerque, N.M.
- Shauna Leggett, hospital pharmacist, Valley Medical Center, Renton, Wash.
- Lee Cantrell, bioinformatics scientist, Seer Bio, San Francisco
- Chris Frick, scientist, Allen Institute for Cell Science, Seattle
Our recent chemistry grads further their studies in top graduate programs at institutions including:
- University of Washington School of Medicine
- California Institute of Technology
- Yale University
- University of California, Berkeley
- UCLA Health
- Vanderbilt University
- Tulane University School of Medicine
- Washington State University
- Oregon State University
- Oregon Health & Science University School of Medicine
- Gonzaga University School of Law
- Georgetown University
Opportunities outside the classroom
- Conduct research off campus. Whitworth chemistry students have recently completed summer programs at Texas A&M University, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Vanderbilt University and University of California, Berkeley.
- Promote science education in the community during Jan Term through the Community Chemistry Outreach course, which provides service-learning opportunities with K-12 students.
- Prepare for a medical career by joining the Pre-med Club, a student-led group that sponsors events related to pre-professional health tracks.
- Develop camaraderie with other chemistry majors in the ChaOS (Chemistry and Other Sciences) Club. This student-led club fosters connections between students of all levels in the major through events such as an annual trivia competition and monthly study halls.
Pack your bags!
Our Chemistry History and Art summer study abroad program will take you to France, the United Kingdom and Germany, where you will learn about the history of chemistry while visiting notable sites, and about the chemical methods used to create famous works of art.
Tracks
Students can earn a bachelor of arts or a bachelor of science degree in chemistry. Biochemistry, physical chemistry and general chemistry tracks are available under the bachelor of science. Students can also pursue a bachelor of arts degree in chemistry – pre-pharmacy track or paired with other majors. Our chemistry minor allows you to pursue an interdisciplinary program of study that meets unique or specific career objectives.