Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry
Concentration: Materials Science (BSCH)
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Materials Science Concentration Overview
Materials science combines various disciplines to create new materials. Purdue University Northwest’s Bachelor of Science in Chemistry degree program with a concentration in materials science allows you to learn about the structure and composition of materials and the processes to synthesize and use them.
Department of Chemistry and Physics
As a materials scientist, you’ll combine an in-depth knowledge of chemistry with the engineering expertise that made the Purdue system famous. You will also receive a chemistry degree approved by the American Chemical Society, an assurance of its quality.
The program provides a strong background in chemistry with a focus in polymers, catalysis and materials engineering.
Materials Science Concentration Curriculum
As a materials science student, you’ll take a balance of general education courses, College of Engineering and Sciences core courses and chemistry courses. This ACS-certified chemistry degree focuses on the structure and dynamics of modern materials, ranging from enhanced steel to composites used in the space program to biodegradable plastics.
The program prepares you for success in the material science workforce or graduate school.
Begin your chemistry and general education sequences as well as courses in mathematics and physics.
Sample Courses
- CHM 11500 – General Chemistry
- CHM 19400 – Freshman Chemistry Orientation
- MA 16300 – Integrated Calculus Analysis Geometry I
Complete basic introductory courses and start focusing on material science-specific knowledge and techniques.
Sample Courses
- CHM 26505 – Organic Chemistry
- CHM 26300 – Organic Chemistry Laboratory
- MA 26100 – Multivariate Calculus
Dig into advanced studies in chemistry and materials engineering. You’ll also begin an applied research project.
Sample Courses
- CHM 37300 – Physical Chemistry
- CHM 34200 – Inorganic Chemistry
- CHM 34201 – Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory
Complete your studies, including a year-long capstone research project and seminar.
Sample Courses
- CHM 49800 – Research In Chemistry
- CHM 32100 – Analytical Chemistry I
- CHM 35000 – Coatings And Resins
Materials Science Concentration Highlights
PNW is the only university in Northwest Indiana to specialize in the chemistry of materials. Chemistry graduates have high success rates in local industries and professional programs.
Materials Science Concentration Outcomes
As a student with the Material Studies concentration on your ACS-certified Chemistry degree, you’ll have an edge when pursuing career opportunities or professional programs in chemistry/chemical engineering.
Materials Science Concentration Career Paths
Materials scientists are employed by companies that make products from metals, ceramics and rubber. They also work in the coatings and biomedical industries.
Materials Science Concentration Beyond the Classroom
Our students participate in a number of organizations, including:
- Student Affiliates of the American Chemical Society
- Chemistry & Physics Club
- Science Olympiad
Materials Science Concentration Employers
Our alumni are employed by companies such as:
- Pfizer
- Monosol
- CSL Behring
- Elite Crete Systems
Materials Science Concentration Scholarships
Chemistry students have a number of scholarships specific to the discipline:
- Chemistry Merit Award
- Nils Nelson Scholarship
- John Cox/CSCT Scholarship
Materials Science Concentration Accreditation
This program is certified by the American Chemical Society (ACS).
Meet the Faculty
Associate Professor of Chemistry
Michael Pelter is an associate professor of chemistry. His areas of expertise include organic, polymer and computational chemistry and chemical education. He has been at PNW since 1991.
Associate Professor of Chemistry
Libbie Pelter teaches organic and inorganic chemistry catalysis. She engages undergraduates in research in catalysis, computational chemistry and development of sustainable methodologies in synthesis.
Earn a Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry with a Concentration in Materials Science at PNW
Purdue University Northwest’s materials science concentration provides you with a strong chemistry foundation paired with knowledge about the structure and composition of materials
To see how a bachelor’s degree in chemistry with a concentration in materials science from PNW opens doors, from boardrooms to laboratories, take the next step today!
