Chemists study substances -- what they do, what they're made of, and what it takes to control and change them. By trying to understand our world in this elemental way, chemists help us gain a better understanding of human health, the environment, and even the food we eat. And more than that, chemists help us understand how to change things and improve the way we live and the world we live in.

What's different about it?

At CSM, we offer the best in a traditional chemistry program with a variety of non-traditional ideas. Our program integrates lab and instrument skills with theory, analytical thinking, and communication skills.

The program is flexible. You can develop an Area of Special Interest or a minor in geochemistry, polymers, or materials, for example. Or you can choose a course specialty in environmental chemistry.

The facilities are excellent, and Coolbaugh Hall, home to the Chemistry and Geochemistry and the Environmental Science and Engineering departments, has recently had $ 13.5 million of new construction and renovation.

The department is small -- just 64 undergraduates -- with a fairly large faculty, so you'll have a chance to study chemistry in a highly personal environment. Besides small classes, you can work with faculty doing research in such areas as environmental problems, applications of chemometrics, development of alternative fuels and fuel additives, and the uses of laser spectroscopy to study surface molecules and other innovative technologies.

What can I do with it?

About half our chemistry grads go directly to graduate school, usually in chemistry or engineering, but also in medicine and other biological sciences.

For those going to work straightaway, they've found jobs in government and industry -- solving environmental problems, designing new materials, developing alternative fuel and energy sources, or working in the evolving world of biotechnology.