Chemistry
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Discover God’s phenomena in natural sciences
Chemistry impacts the world’s understanding and adapting of new drugs and vaccines, synthesis of new materials, alternative energy sources, environmental protection, climate change, and more. You’ll study a physical science that helps us better take care of God’s creation.
Our chemistry program gives you access to modern laboratory technology and experienced faculty, giving you hands-on learning experiences from your first day. Our faculty, rather than Teacher Assistants like other programs, lead the intentionally small and personal classes to give you and your peers personalized attention. Our student-to-faculty ratio of 4:1 means our professors will know your name and your goals. You’ll sharpen your skills in your courses, labs, and out in the field while completing highly-desired undergraduate research.
Gardner-Webb’s emphasis on instrumentation and a fundamental understanding of chemical science grounded in Christian principles prepares you for your calling, whether that’s graduate studies, professional school, or a chemistry-related career.
Your classes, labs, and hands-on learning experiences will help you:
Evan shares how her time at Gardner-Webb shaped her career and influenced her journey in the sciences. Discover the lasting impact of a Gardner-Webb education through the stories of our alumni.
You can add a pre-medical, pharmacy, or dental professional concentration to specialize your degree in chemistry.
In addition to the Gardner-Webb University general education requirements, the student must complete a minimum of 34 hours of chemistry coursework in the major.
For a more in-depth look at program requirements, visit our Academic Catalog.
A student seeking a second major in any field of study offered by the Department of Natural Sciences must meet all of the criteria for the primary major.
Students pursuing a Minor in Chemistry will take a general chemistry course, as well as a 2 organic chemistry courses, and 2 chemistry electives, for a total of 20 credit hours.
For a more in-depth look at minor requirements, visit our Academic Catalog.
Additional minors available in the Department of Natural Sciences include the Biology Minor (16 hours), the Environmental Science Minor (20 hours), the Forensic Science Minor (15 hours), the Health Science Minor (16–17 hours), the Physical Science Minor (16 hours), and the General Science Minor (20 hours).
Whether you pursue professional or graduate studies or directly enter a chemistry-related career, our program will prepare you for making a positive impact on science and technology. Chemistry program alumni have found their passions in research, development, analysis and testing, consulting, forensics, and more.
Depending on additional education and career goals, you may pursue a wide range of health- and science-related professions including the following:
You’ll also be able to go directly into entry-level positions including the following:
Chemistry alumnus, Dr. Jacob Walley, ‘17, received his Ph.D. in inorganic chemistry from the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. While there, Walley’s research was published in one of the most prestigious chemistry journals in the world (Angewandte Chemie), and he has been recognized with several awards and published 11 papers. His interest in research was developed in the GWU chemistry lab and through internships. “All the chemistry professors at GWU are excellent teachers/mentors who genuinely care about their students’ future,” Walley said. “My professors giving me the right expectations prepared me the most for graduate school.”
View Dr. Jacob Walley Profile
Learn more about the Department of Natural Sciences
As a chemistry major, you will have opportunities to complete research, internships, or other activities that will prepare you for your next steps. If you will continue your studies with a graduate or professional program, discuss your goals with your advisor and see what opportunities will best meet those future requirements.
Work at a hospital, medical office, veterinary clinic, pharmacy, or other care provider. Find a role in business, academic research, and environmental science. You also may serve as a lab assistant, gaining valuable experience that other schools typically reserve for graduate-level students!
Conduct one-on-one research with your professor. Under the guidance of your faculty mentor, you’ll select a research topic and learn the scientific process of discovery. Become a subject matter expert and present your work through research posters or oral presentations at local and regional science conferences.
We mentor our students at every step of the way, from course selection to applications for internships and undergraduate research experiences to searching and applying for graduate and professional schools. Your professors will provide assistance and advice with mock interviews to help you prepare for graduate and professional school interviews or job interviews.
Start your college career. Once you've found the program that's right for you, learn how to apply and become one of the approximately 96% of our students that receive financial aid.
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