Chemistry and Biochemistry

College of Arts and Sciences

The Faculty of Science

Science and Technology Center, Room 317

570-422-3342

www.esu.edu/chem

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry is approved by the Committee on Professional Training of the American Chemical Society and the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.

About the Program

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry provides high quality programs in both traditional and emerging fields of study that promote human and intellectual diversity. Academic degree programs offered: Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry; Bachelor of Science in Chemical Biotechnology; Bachelor of Science in Chemistry; Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education/Chemistry and a Minor in Chemistry.

The department provides options for students whose interests range from traditional chemistry fields to the interface between chemistry and biology or that have a health-profession emphasis.  Majors are well prepared for direct entry to the workforce or graduate or professional study.

The Biochemistry degree is accredited by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, one of only two programs in the State System of Higher Education to obtain this distinction.  Biochemistry students may obtain individual degree certification upon successful completion of the ASBMB certification exam. 

The Bachelor of Science Program in Chemistry has met the requirements set forth by the Committee on Professional Training of the American Chemical Society. Graduates of the ACS certified concentration are eligible to receive certification from the American Chemical Society.

ESU is located near several chemical and pharmaceutical companies such as Sanofi Pasteur, Royal Chemicals, Biospectra, and DSM. Majors can explore internships and employment in their area of study.

Many majors participate in undergraduate research. Under the supervision of a faculty mentor, students learn independently and solve problems. Students are exposed to advanced, specialized areas of chemistry and biochemistry.

The ESU Chemistry Club is a Student Affiliate Chapter of the American Chemical Society. The club members are very active in campus events and public service. The members plan field trips to local and regional industries where chemistry plays a major role in research and production. Members perform chemical demonstrations to entertain and educate diverse audiences.

Are you interested in ...

  • Medicine or medical research
  • Laboratory instrumentation
  • Scientific or technical production
  • Quality control work
  • Environmental measurements
  • The link between chemistry and biology
  • Cutting edge biotechnology and forensics
  • Strong preparation of medical, pharmacy or dental programs

Choose Chemistry at ESU

  • Small class sizes
  • Modern facilities
  • Practical field experiences
  • Qualified, experienced faculty
  • Frequent faculty interactions

Is Chemistry of Biochemistry a career path for me?

Career Potential

  • Chemist, Biochemist or Biotechnologist
  • Agricultural or Food Industry Scientist
  • Environmental Testing
  • Educator
  • Production or Quality Control Technician
  • Pharmaceutical and Vaccine Production
  • Government or Military Scientist

Career Settings

  • Chemical Manufacturers
  • Hospitals
  • Graduate School - Advanced Degrees
  • Laboratories
  • Forensic Laboratories
  • Food and Drug Administration
  • Pharmaceutical Companies

More detailed career information is available from the department.