Chemistry

Undergraduate

Chemistry is the study of the composition, synthesis, physical properties, and transformations of materials, including biological substances, technological materials, and natural products.

A student working at an electron microscope

Program Overview

Through hands-on experience with modern instrumentation throughout the curriculum, a broad array of advanced coursework, and engagement in active discussion and collaboration with the chemistry faculty, the goals of chemistry are:

  1. to give you a firm foundation in the fundamental principles of chemistry, its sub-disciplines, and their interrelationships;
  2. to help you develop a proficiency in experimental technique, design, and interpretation;
  3. to expose you to contemporary research questions and applications.

Community Voices

Spotlight on Chemistry students and alums

Courses and Requirements

All students regardless of background preparation are required to begin their study of chemistry with either Chemistry 150, General Chemistry: Foundations of Structure and Reactivity or Chemistry 160, Integrated Introduction to Biology and Chemistry (must be taken concurrently with Biology 160).

Learning Goals

Knowledge-Based Learning Goals

  • Understand the physical basis and utility of hierarchical representations of structure (atomic, molecular, macro/supramolecular) at appropriate levels of sophistication.
  • Understand the physical basis and utility of spectroscopic and analytical technologies.
  • Use energy, kinetics, and thermodynamics to develop a quantitative and mechanistic view of chemical systems.
  • Apply structural and energetic models to describing and predicting the functions and interactions of molecules.
  • Apply chemical knowledge to socially significant endeavors.

Skill-Based Learning Goals

  • Solve chemical problems using both qualitative and quantitative methods.
  • Design and conduct independent experiments in chemistry, using modern instrumentation.
  • Interpret and critically analyze data.
  • Critically evaluate primary scientific literature.
  • Effectively communicate scientific information in oral, written, and visual formats to scientific and broader audiences.
  • Collaborate to pursue common goals.
  • Employ responsible and ethical practices in data collection and analysis, documentation, reporting, and attribution.
  • Assess safety concerns in the laboratory and employ best practices.

Contact us

The Department of Chemistry is among the best-funded small college science departments in the nation, with a correspondingly high output of top-quality publications and students prepared to enter graduate and other professional schools.

Julia Kerns
  • Academic Department Coordinator

Next steps

Apply to Mount Holyoke

Mount Holyoke seeks intellectually curious applicants who understand the value of a liberal arts education and are driven by a love of learning. As a women's college that is gender diverse, we welcome applications from female, trans and non-binary students.

Financing your education

Everyone’s financial situation is unique, and we’re here to make sure cost does not get in the way of an exceptional education.