Chemistry

Brewing a bottle of beer, fashioning stronger building materials, analyzing clues left at a crime scene, monitoring contaminants in the environment, creating new medications to fight disease—these are all examples of chemistry in action. Investigation. Research. Developing an understanding of the intricacies of the basic building blocks of life. The study of chemistry is an invitation to explore the wonders of the world in their most elemental state.

“Having a close relationship with professors helps out the students here in many ways.”

— Jess Olle '21

Read Jess' story

About the Chemistry Major

Carroll University’s chemistry program offers courses in the basic areas of inorganic, organic, analytical, physical and biochemistry, which are supplemented by industrial internships, studies in laboratory safety and health and opportunities for independent research.

Our students have opportunities to engage in scholarly research projects on campus during the semester, or can also work one-on-one with a professor to create and conduct Pioneer Scholars projects over the summer. Students may also apply to participate in a 12-week research program at the prestigious University of Strathclyde in Scotland. Whether you’re headed for post-college employment or considering graduate studies, the hands-on research opportunities you’ll get will give you an advantage. Our students have moved on to positions at state crime labs and top research graduate programs around the country. They have also started careers at Dow Chemical, Covance, Abbot Laboratories the Millipore-Sigma Chemical Company, among other industry giants.

Our program is approved by the Committee on Professional Training of the American Chemical Society, guaranteeing faculty, curriculum and instrumentation necessary for a top quality undergraduate education.

The student affiliate chapter of the American Chemical Society hosts guest lecturers and field trips, and provides student mentoring. Students can present research projects at regional and national American Chemical Society meetings.

Become a Science Teacher

Pairing the chemistry major with Carroll’s secondary education major can lead to certification by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction to teach science in high school and middle school. Your coursework will prepare you to teach courses in chemistry, while your emphasis coursework will prepare you to teach across science disciplines, which will make you more versatile in your school setting.

Emphases / Minor

Chemistry majors are required to choose one of the following emphases. In addition to the major, Carroll offers a minor in chemistry that complements many areas of study.

Internships

We help you build real world experience, explore careers and network with professionals through internship opportunities. Recent placements include the following companies:

  • Brady Corporation
  • Sigma-Aldrich Corporation
  • S.C. Johnson
  • Essential Industries
  • Hydrite Chemical
  • Abbott Laboratories
  • Bostik Inc.
  • American Red Cross of the Northeast
  • Gundersen Lutheran

Careers

College is a big investment in a bright future. Learn more about the industries and careers our majors pursue, and the workplaces and experiences of the alumni from our program. See where your chemistry career may take you.

Career Insight

Latest Program News

two drones, an unmanned aircraft and a submersible

Research project relies on unmanned aircraft

10/8/2021

A Pioneer Scholars project illustrates the interdisciplinary potential of Carroll's new Unmanned Aircraft Systems minor

Alumna Kathy Wolfgram '76

Kathy Wolfgram '76 to serve as keynote speaker for annual Alumnae Leadership Luncheon

8/7/2021

The Dr. Seuss title “Oh, the Places You’ll Go” comes to mind for alumna Kathy Wolfgram ’76 when she reflects on her time at Carroll and the start of a career in chemistry that she said might have been intimidating if she knew what was to come.

More Resources

“The chance to travel...and gain research experience is a unique opportunity...”

— Allison Tomczyk '18

Read Allison's story

Meet the Faculty

Panoramic View of campus