Chemistry Minor

The study of matter

The world is full of mysteries and discoveries yet to be made. As a chemistry major at Alverno, you’ll explore and come to better understand the world around you. Hands-on learning is an essential part of what we do, so you’ll find cutting-edge instrumentation in our laboratories. Everything you learn will get you ready for graduate school, the workforce or even to make that revolutionary discovery!

The Alverno difference

At Alverno, small class sizes allow for instruction that is centered on you. Faculty work closely with you to help you learn and grow as a student, as a scientist, as a researcher and a professional. And our curriculum has been designed to advance women in STEM, a profession in which women have historically been under-represented.

Your courses will focus on the content and methods commonly used in research and industrial laboratories. You’ll apply what you’re learning in the classroom to your work in the lab. For example, a student might adapt a procedure for the measurement of calcium in milk or work to separate the raw material for aspirin from willow bark.

By incorporating these methods into your education, you’ll be ready for your next step.

As an Alverno chemistry student, you will:

• Practice and master using the language and concepts of chemistry in written and oral communication
• Confidently leverage the frameworks and methodology of chemistry to solve problems independently and collaboratively
• Use a wide variety of laboratory techniques with accuracy, precision, safety and an attention to local and global implications of chemical practices

“Alverno is my gateway to my future career. In my summer research fellowship, I have learned the basic skills of working in a research lab and explored the chemical characteristics of water. Real-life application of the sciences has opened new opportunities for me.”

— Shivani, chemistry major

Chemistry majors are ready for graduate school and careers as a:

• Forensic scientist
• Water chemist
• Quality assurance technician
• Food chemist
• Chemistry teacher
• And more!