B.A. in Chemistry

Program Overview

The B.A. in Chemistry at Lycoming College provides a solid foundation in the core areas of chemistry, including organic, inorganic, analytical, physical, and biochemistry. The program emphasizes hands-on laboratory experience, allowing students to engage directly with chemical processes and instrumentation from their early years. This degree path can be customized to support various career aspirations, including preparation for medical or dental school, or careers in environmental science, forensics, or industrial chemistry. Lycoming also offers a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Chemistry, which is typically more intensive and may be approved by the American Chemical Society, providing further specialization for those seeking it.

STEM-Designated: Yes, the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Chemistry at Lycoming College is generally considered a STEM-designated program. While some institutions may offer a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) for a more rigorous chemistry degree, Lycoming explicitly offers both B.A. and B.S. options in Chemistry. Chemistry, as a field, falls under the "Physical Sciences" classification by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for STEM designation purposes. This classification is significant for international students, as it often makes them eligible for the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension, allowing for an additional 24 months of work authorization in the U.S. after graduation. The curriculum's strong emphasis on scientific methodology, laboratory work, and quantitative analysis aligns well with STEM criteria.

Curriculum: The Chemistry curriculum at Lycoming College is designed to provide both breadth and depth in chemical knowledge. Core courses typically include General Chemistry I & II, Organic Chemistry I & II, Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, and Inorganic Chemistry. Students also take foundational mathematics courses, including Calculus, and often physics. The B.A. degree allows for more flexibility to combine chemistry with other liberal arts disciplines, while still providing a robust scientific education. The curriculum places a strong emphasis on laboratory work, ensuring students gain practical skills in experimental design, data analysis, and the safe handling of chemicals.

Research Focus: Research is a cornerstone of the Chemistry program at Lycoming College. Students have numerous opportunities to engage in meaningful, hands-on research alongside faculty members, often starting as early as their freshman year. The college actively supports student-faculty collaborations, leading to presentations at regional and national conferences and even co-authorship on peer-reviewed publications. The department is equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation, including an Agilent Liquid Chromatograph/Mass Spectrometer (LC/MS), allowing students to utilize advanced technologies and techniques in their research. The Endowed Summer Research Fellow program within the Chemistry and Biochemistry department further provides funded opportunities for in-depth summer research projects.

Industry Engagement: Lycoming College places a high priority on practical industry engagement for its Chemistry students. The program prepares graduates for roles in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, materials science, environmental science, and forensics. Students are actively encouraged to pursue competitive internships with companies and research institutions, which provide invaluable real-world experience and networking opportunities. Examples include student-faculty research teams collaborating with local businesses, such as a recent project with a distilling company to advance bourbon aging processes. The college's Center for Enhanced Academic Experiences assists students in securing these vital professional opportunities, and the strong alumni network often provides pathways to careers.

Global Perspective: A global perspective is inherently integrated into Lycoming College's Chemistry program through the universal nature of scientific inquiry and the global challenges addressed by chemical solutions. The curriculum may explore topics such as global environmental chemistry, sustainable development, or the international implications of chemical advancements. While there isn't a specific "global chemistry" track, the college's broader commitment to international education is significant. Lycoming encourages and facilitates study abroad opportunities, allowing students to gain diverse cultural experiences and witness scientific practices in different global contexts. The presence of a diverse international student body on campus also fosters cross-cultural collaboration and prepares graduates to contribute to a globally interconnected scientific community.