The Department of Chemistry combines a rigorous, ACS-approved chemistry curriculum with the leadership development of one of the nation’s six senior military colleges – preparing cadets for graduate study, industry research, and commissioned service through small classes, hands-on instrumentation, and faculty-mentored undergraduate research.
Choosing Chemistry at VMI
Our department offers cadets choosing to major in chemistry two degree options – a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.).
The chemistry Bachelor of Science degree program is approved by the American Chemical Society, and cadets fulfilling the requirements for a B.S. are certified as having met the standards of professional training by the society. For those who choose the B.S. there are two tracks available:
- Biochemistry / Pre-Medical — Courses focus on organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry as well as topics in biochemistry.
- Research — Courses focus on organic, physical, and analytical chemistry.
The Bachelor of Arts degree provides cadets with an opportunity to pursue other interests in preparation for a career of their choosing while providing a solid foundation in the basic areas of chemistry. This degree requires cadets to choose another focus area outside of chemistry and complete either a minor, concentration or certification. Faculty members will work closely with B.A. majors to design a program that best meets the cadets’ career goals.
Career choices could correspond to the following focus areas:
- Medical, Dental Schools — Biology Minor
- Military or Intelligence Agencies — International Studies Minor, National Security Minor, Modern Language Minor
- Law Enforcement or Forensics — Biology Minor
- Business/MBA — Business or Economics Minor
100%
of VMI's Instructional Faculty in the Department of Chemistry Hold Ph.D.'s
Department faculty members believe that close interaction with cadets in the classroom and in the chemical laboratory is critical in the development of good chemistry majors. This personal mentoring occurs in many ways but especially in our small classes and during undergraduate research projects.
Research-Focused Education
All chemistry majors are encouraged to participate in an undergraduate research experience under the guidance of a faculty member either in a 10-week summer program or during the academic year.
Chemistry majors also have the opportunity to work as industrial interns with a company during the summer.
Cadets who have demonstrated excellence in the study of chemistry during their time at VMI are invited to participate in the departmental honors program during their 1st Class (senior) year. Cadets who accept the invitation will be engaged in extensive research under the close supervision of a faculty sponsor.
Hands-On Experience
The laboratory facilities and instrumentation housed in Maury-Brooke Hall provide chemistry majors hands-on experiences with the modern techniques needed to learn and practice the science of chemistry in structured courses and labs as well as in independent research.
Financial Support & Outcomes
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Questions? We’re Here to Help
Connect with Chemistry
Email: chemistry@vmi.edu
Phone: (540) 464-7244
Chemistry Office
401 Maury-Brooke Hall