Prospective Students

Why study Chemistry at Illinois State University?

There are a variety of reasons to choose the Department of Chemistry at Illinois State University as your collegiate home. These reasons all share a common theme of providing an atmosphere of learning and discovery that allows students to find in themselves the promise of unlimited potential in their chosen career field. Read below to learn about the department's activities to support the professional and personal growth of its students so that they may be successful in the chemical sciences.

Knowledgeable and Dedicated Instructors

The instructors of the Department of Chemistry are all dedicated to providing quality instruction in the classroom and in the laboratory. Both lecture and laboratory courses involve the participation of the faculty, all of whom have the highest degree in their field. The importance of the quality of teaching is always being addressed by the Department. Many of the faculty are constantly seeking ways to enhance the classroom experience by taking advantages of innovations in modern technology. Multiple members of the Department of Chemistry have been recognized within the University community with a variety of teaching awards and honors.

Undergraduate Research

The Department of Chemistry strongly encourages its students to participate in undergraduate research. The classroom experience is meant to build a theoretical foundation for understanding chemical phenomena. In the last five years the Department of Chemistry has secured more than $1.3 million in grants that support both teaching and research activities. The faculty are wholly dedicated to providing a quality educational and research experiences that prepares students for promising careers in the chemical sciences. The research experience offered at ISU offers students:

• An opportunity to go beyond the limits of the classroom
• A practical way of addressing challenges in independent research projects
• Personal interactions with graduate students and faculty in performing these projects build confidence and ability through laboratory action, personal and professional communication
• A chance to enhance their abilities as chemists and become more competitive in the job market.

Outstanding Academic and Career Advising

The Department of Chemistry is dedicated to the success of its students. One of the best mechanisms of ensuring success is through academic advising. Students are assigned an advisor in the department and that advisor works with the student to make sure that the he or she is making progress in the program. In addition to academic advising, there is career advising as well. Students can have their resumes reviewed and participate in on-campus interviews. Organizations that have visited the Department of Chemistry are Abbott Laboratories, Baxter Healthcare, Archer Daniels Midland, and the Illinois State Police (forensics internships).