BA/BS in Chemistry

The chemistry major at Washington College follows an organic-first curriculum, recognized by the national chemical society and the Maryland state higher education body. Fundamental ideas are introduced through organic chemistry and biochemistry, which lets topics be grouped by theme and reflects chemistry as a field that overlaps with other sciences. Students work with research-grade instruments from their first course. Principles of green chemistry run through the courses, encouraging graduates to consider environmental effects. In the senior year, each student becomes an independent researcher guided by a faculty mentor on a Senior Capstone Experience project. Two tracks are available, one certified by the ACS and one that is not, and both have published course requirements on the department pages. Students also gain steady practice with data collection and analysis throughout the major.