Chemistry & Biochemistry

Solve society’s most pressing issues.

If you’re interested in solving problems, working with others, learning in state-of-the-art facilities, and developing hands-on lab skills, Chemistry and Biochemistry may be a great fit for you.

Why Chemistry & Biochemistry?

As a Chemistry or Biochemistry major, students gain a strong foundation in the fundamentals of chemical structure and reactivity as they transition from students of science to practitioners of science. In the process, they learn how to develop experiments to study hypotheses, how to analyze materials to gain structural information, and how to solve complex problems.

At Butler, students develop the knowledge to contribute to a number of scientific fields, build communication skills necessary to work with others, and hone problem solving skills that enable the pursuit of any number of career options, all while learning from some of the top faculty in the field.

Our graduates work as chemists in local and national companies, attend some of the top graduate programs in the chemical and biochemical sciences, study at some of the top medical, dental, and optometry schools in the country, and pursue areas outside of science such as law, sales, and education.

Butler’s Chemistry and Biochemistry graduates work as chemists in local and national companies, study at some of the top medical, dental, and optometry schools in the country, and pursue areas outside of science such as law, sales, and education. Some careers include, but are not limited to:

- Chemical technician
- Synthetic Chemist
- Geo chemist
- Oceanographer
- Pharmacologist

Chemistry is often referred to as the “central science.” It plays a role in the discovery of better medicines, the development of safer chemicals for household use, and in the development of the next generation of electronic gadgets. An essential aspect of chemistry is the necessity of doing these things sustainably. The skills gained from a Chemistry degree can be applied not just to careers in chemistry, but also to careers in healthcare, law, business, and education and to the pursuit of advanced degrees in a variety of fields.

Pursue Your Passion

Three Chemistry Options

Our three options for a major provide increasingly deeper and broader chemistry curricula. And, all can be completed in just three years. Options include Chemistry, Biochemistry, and ACS-Certified Chemistry

Students engaging with each other in a lab

Hone Your Skills

Internship

Students seek out internships, tapping the rich corporate culture of Indianapolis and the Chemistry department’s close relationships with such global concerns as Eli Lilly Co. and Corteva Agriscience.

Faculty and student working together in a lab

Learn From the Best

The Strength of our Faculty and Facilities

Active researchers, industrial consultants, and authors in the field of Chemistry, our knowledgeable faculty are great role models and supportive mentors to students. Inside classrooms, labs, or beyond, they share their scholarly interests, professional connections, and enthusiasm for Chemistry. You’ll also have access to state-of-the-art facilities through our new Sciences Complex.

Sciences Complex

Prepare for Your Future

Possible Career Paths

Graduates are employed in such professions as chemistry, engineering, teaching, IT, and real estate. Others are pursuing advanced degrees in chemistry, medicine, dentistry, engineering, and other disciplines.

Study Abroad with Chemistry and Biochemistry

Many students pursuing STEM or health-related career fields find it challenging to engage in study abroad experiences. As a result, the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department created CH418 Chemistry and Global Issues. This course focuses on a global issue and incorporates a required short-term study abroad experience.

Learn More

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