Chemistry

Why study chemistry?

Chemistry plays an integral role in today’s scientific endeavors. As science has become increasingly interdisciplinary, fundamental scientific problems focus on the chemical nature of matter.

You can use a chemistry degree to make an impact on the world around you in a multitude of ways. You can help design new drugs and treatments to defeat diseases. You can help create better, safer food sources. You can help reverse the environmental damage humanity has created. The opportunities are endless.

What will I learn as a chemistry student?

When you study chemistry, you’re learning about the basic structural units of matter—what things are made of, what their properties are, and how they act and interact. These interactions are fundamental to our daily existence—and are key for understanding many other areas of science, including biology, geology, physics, and more.

As a chemistry student, your education will touch on all of these scientific areas. You can choose to focus your degree program on medicinal chemistry, biological chemistry, or the study of chemistry as a whole.

No matter which route you take, you’ll be encouraged to participate in research. You can choose from an array of chemistry research options that allow you to work one-on-one with world renowned faculty in a laboratory environment—beginning in your freshman year.

Chemistry undergrad finds her focus through research

Stephanie Metcalf, an undergraduate student in the chemistry department, spent a year working in the lab of Dr. Mark Mendonca studying radiation oncology, specifically the effect of therapeutic drugs on pancreatic cells when exposed to radiation.

“Being able to do some real research solidified what I wanted to do in graduate school,” Metcalf said. “I first thought I would work in the pharmacological industry, maybe something corporate, but now I know I want to do some sort of biomedical research and possibly teach after getting my Ph.D.”

Learn more about Melcalf’s experience

What can I do with a degree in chemistry?

With a chemistry degree from IU Indianapolis, you’ll be ready to take on the world, whether as a research chemist in industry or academia or in fields such as medicine and law where the analytical and technical skills you learn as a chemistry major are highly valued.

You’ll also be in high demand. Top graduate programs, including M.D./Ph.D. programs, actively recruit our students, and the best employers—locally and beyond—know that our graduates are prepared to make an impact.

38%of chemistry grads pursue advanced degrees

80%+of chemistry grads find employment related to their degree

73%of employed grads work in Indianapolis

$72,600median salary for chemistry B.S. grads

Find the right chemistry undergrad program for you

Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry

Minor in Chemistry