About SOU Chemistry

The mission of the SOU Chemistry program is to prepare students interested in the chemical and biochemical sciences for diverse and engaging careers in chemical, material, health and life sciences. We provide each student with the theoretical background and hands-on experience necessary to investigate the behavior of chemical systems. Students and faculty in the SOU Chemistry program investigate the analytical, biochemical, inorganic, organic, and physical aspects of chemical synthesis, chemical analysis, and characterization of chemical systems using state-of-the-art chemical instrumentation. Chemistry majors participate in the design and communication of chemical investigations, and in so doing, develop comprehensive information literacy and oral and written presentation skills as an integral part of their undergraduate experience.

The Chemistry Department at Southern Oregon University provides an outstanding undergraduate education in a supportive, friendly environment. The Department offers American Chemical Society-accredited BS degrees in Chemistry and Biochemistry, a BS degree in Forensic Chemistry, and a BA degree tailored for students interested in pursuing healthcare. Small class sizes and one-on-one interactions with faculty are hallmarks of a chemistry education at Southern Oregon. SOU chemistry students have access to a wide array of modern chemical instrumentation in both their courses and their research. Students have the opportunity to engage in faculty-directed research in diverse areas including environmental metal sequestration, computational modeling of tuberculosis enzymes, identification of antioxidant and antitumor compounds, trace substances and pesticides in honey, paper analytical devices, flavor compounds and wine production, human nutritional supplements, and artificial protein structures for targeting cancers.

Interdisciplinary studies with biology, computer science, and mathematics allow chemistry students to make contributions to related areas of science. Internship opportunities with local companies, as well as the US Fish and Wildlife Forensic Laboratory, allow chemistry students to expand their education beyond the classroom and laboratory. A chemistry or biochemistry degree from Southern Oregon University puts students on the fast track to entering graduate/professional programs or exciting careers in one of many chemically-related disciplines.