Chemistry as a Central Science

Chemistry is the basic science that deals with the composition and transformation of matter. Modern chemistry is a highly abstract subject whose study presents great intellectual challenges and rewards. It is also a practical field at the hub of man’s future.

The chemist works with the biologist to understand life processes, with the physician in the design of new drugs and medicines, with the physicist and geologist in the probe of outer and inner space, with the ecologist to improve the environment, and with the engineer and the technical manager to provide the materials and energy for a better life.

Chemistry responds to societal needs. It plays a critical role in any attempt to discover new processes, tap new sources of energy, develop new materials, feed the world’s population, improve health and conquer disease, and monitor and protect our environment.

Within the field of chemistry, undergraduate majors can specialize in the areas of analytical, inorganic, medicinal, organic, and physical chemistry. More than half go on to attend graduate or professional schools. Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry often work as bench chemists in industry, hospitals and government laboratories. Chemistry is also a very good pre-med, pre-law or pre-business and management program.