Frequently Asked Questions1) What is Chemistry? What can I do with a degree in Chemistry?Chemistry is frequently called the "central science" because it is so closely allied with other disciplines such as biology, physics, geology, environmental science, materials science, chemical engineering, and the health professions. Strictly speaking, chemistry is the study of matter--what substances are made of, how they behave, and the energy processes associated with chemical change. Chemistry is a broad and exciting field that helps us understand and appreciate the world around us, from living systems to commercial products. Among other things, chemists synthesize new materials, find new applications for materials that are already known, make chemicals that can potentially cure diseases, isolate and study important biochemicals, and work on environmental problems of global importance. But a career in chemistry need not mean working in a research laboratory or an industrial plant. Other careers in chemistry include teaching, scientific writing, patent law, technical sales and service, chemical information-library science, technical business administration, and government service. By combining a background in chemistry with other interests and talents, it is possible to design a career that is tailored for the individual. 2) What and where have SCU Chemistry graduates ended up in the past?Santa Clara is one of 595 schools that offer a chemistry degree program certified by the American Chemical Society. During the past 10 years, 30 percent of Santa Clara's 74 graduates have chosen to earn this certified degree. About one-third of these graduates have elected to pursue master's or doctoral degrees in chemistry. In addition, half have taken chemistry-related jobs at the bachelor's level, and one-fifth have undertaken professional study in medicine or dentistry. In smaller numbers, Santa Clara graduates have entered the fields of pharmacy, law, chemical engineering, mathematics, physics, environmental science, and business. Over the years, Santa Clara graduates have been accepted for advanced study at more than 70 graduate and professional institutions throughout the country. In the last 10 years, 43 percent of Santa Clara chemistry graduates have been women. 3) Why study Chemistry at Santa Clara University?The chemistry faculty is dedicated to providing its students with a superior undergraduate educational experience. Class sizes are kept small, typically about eight to 15 students in upper- division classes. The low student-to-faculty ratio allows the student ample opportunity to interact with faculty on a one-to-one basis, whether it is during office hours, review sessions, laboratory research, or just chatting in the hallways. Students are encouraged to work with faculty on research, either for credit or as paid assistants. Besides serving as an introduction to the rigors of scientific investigation, this collaboration allows the faculty and undergraduates to get to know each other as friends and colleagues. This partnership of students and faculty members has been quite fruitful; many students have co-authored research papers with faculty members. 4) How long does it take to get a B.S. at Santa Clara University?Normally everybody takes exactly four years to complete all the requirements for graduation. With a little bit of planning, however, one can complete a minor or even a second major in just four years. |
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© 2008 Santa Clara University | Department of Chemistry| |
