Chemistry
At Valparaiso University, our chemistry program blends curiosity, experimentation, and discovery to prepare students for future success in science, healthcare, and technology.
Valpo’s chemistry program provides a strong foundation in the principles of chemical science and the practical techniques used by today’s researchers. Students explore the composition, structure, and transformation of matter while developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills valued across scientific and professional fields.
Research and laboratory courses are central to the chemistry program. Students learn in the Center for the Sciences, home to 55,000 square feet of modern chemistry, biochemistry, and biology laboratory facilities. The program includes a degree option certified by the American Chemical Society (ACS) and prepares students for medical school, pharmacy school, graduate studies, or rewarding careers in chemistry. Chemistry majors graduate ready for what’s next — whether that’s a job in industry, a spot in medical or pharmacy school, or graduate research — equipped with a solid scientific foundation and the skills to apply it from day one.
97.5% of recent Valpo College of Arts and Sciences graduates employed or enrolled in graduate school within nine months of graduation
$84,680
Median Annual Wage for Chemists
*According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023 report
CAREER PATHS
A chemistry degree from Valpo opens many possibilities. Graduates pursue roles such as:
• Analytical Chemist
• Environmental Chemist
• Forensic Scientist
• High School Chemistry Teacher (when paired with Valpo’s secondary education minor)
• Laboratory Technician
• Pharmacist or Physician (via a premedical track)
Valpo’s chemistry program ensures students meet national standards for professional readiness. Visit valpo.edu/alumni-success to learn more.
EXPERT MENTORSHIP
Valpo’s chemistry faculty are active researchers and dedicated mentors who guide students from their first laboratory course through graduation. Professors lead projects in environmental chemistry, drug development, solar energy storage, and protein analysis. Students in Valpo’s pre-medical arts program have an average medical school acceptance rate of 77%. Through close mentorship and shared discovery, students build confidence, refine their scientific skills, and develop the leadership needed to excel in research, industry, or advanced academic settings.
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
Learning chemistry at Valpo means applying concepts in real laboratory and research settings. Students work in the Center for the Sciences using advanced instruments and techniques to investigate chemical and environmental questions. Many participate in internships or facultymentored research, gaining experience that connects theory to professional practice. Each spring, students have the opportunity to share their discoveries at SORCE the Symposium on Research and Creative Expression which celebrates the depth of undergraduate scholarship across campus. These experiences prepare graduates to lead and innovate in their chosen scientific fields.
Be a Beacon
Valparaiso University admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation, or religion. (For a full statement, see valpo.edu .)
“I would recommend the chemistry program at Valpo to other students because you will not find another place like it. The professors genuinely care about each of their students and want to help them succeed and find what they are passionate about, which is extremely vital when pursuing such a hard and rigorous degree. This program also allows for each student to get hands-on experience working with high-quality instruments and technology that is extremely rare in undergraduate experiences, and it really helps to develop practical lab skills that are crucial for entering such a diverse field.”
EMILY BRONIEWICZ ’26
MAJORS: Chemistry, Biology
SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS
For more information on financial aid, visit valpo.edu/aid.
Take the next step toward your bright future by visiting valpo.edu/chemistry, or by scanning the QR code.
Valparaiso University Valparaiso, IN 46383
web: valpo.edu
email: undergrad.admission@valpo.edu
