A student pipes liquid into a test tube. They are wearing a white lab coat and green safety goggles.

Department of Chemistry and Physics

With a focus on chemistry, physics and the physical sciences, we prepare you for a career in today’s technical workforce or for postgraduate success.

Academic Programs

Our rigorous programs bring real-world experience to the classroom, building the knowledge you need to succeed.

Undergraduate


I am very happy to have been a graduate of PNW. I have many experiences, formed lasting friendships, and took the combined advice from of my professors and mentors and used it as a guide for my career, and will continue to do so in the future.

Resources

a student in a lab coat and classes work with test tubes

Student Resources

Discover

Students have opportunities for participating in significant, faculty-mentored research beginning in the sophomore year. Most present their data at research conferences and publish alongside faculty.

neeti parashar

Faculty Research

Premier Collaborations

Our faculty are engaged in a wide range of disciplinary and interdisciplinary research, including NSF-funded high energy physics collaborations with Fermilab and CERN.

a professor looks through shelves

Outstanding Faculty

Teaching

You will find yourself immersed in an innovative learning environment with faculty who are PNW’s “Star Teachers” and teaching-award winners.

News & Announcements

A lion statue on the PNW Westville campus

Purdue University Northwest students earn spring 2025 Dean’s List honors

The Purdue University Northwest (PNW) 2025 spring semester Dean’s List recognizes 1,746 undergraduate students for their academic achievements.

Terrell Sucre stands outside in commencement regalia

Purdue University Northwest graduates urged to confidently embrace change as they pursue their dreams

Purdue University Northwest’s (PNW) 2025 graduates have poured countless hours into their persistent journeys to earn their degrees. On May 10, the culmination of over 850 candidates’ hard work was celebrated during PNW’s 2025 Commencement.

Jose Sanchez

Welcoming Dr. José R. Sánchez as New CES Dean

I am delighted to announce the successful conclusion of the national search for the next Dean of the College of Engineering and Sciences (CES). Please join me in welcoming Dr. José R. Sánchez to this role, effective May 1, 2025.

Upcoming Chemistry and Physics Events

Oct 13

Fall Break

PNW will observe Fall Break on Monday and Tuesday, October 13 and 14, 2025.

Oct 27

Spring 2026 Priority Registration Begins

Priority Registration for Spring 2026 begins October 27. Register promptly for the best selection of course days and times.

Nov 14

Last Day to Drop a Full-Term Fall 2025 Course

The last day to drop a Full-Term Fall 2025 Course is Friday, November 14, 2025, at 4:30 p.m.

Nov 26

Thanksgiving Break – No Classes

Due to the Thanksgiving holiday, there will be no classes from Thursday, November 27 through Saturday, November 29.