About Us
The Department of Chemistry is dedicated to educating and empowering students to excel in the chemical sciences by fostering discovery, rigor and scientific integrity.
Explore comprehensive programs
The Department of Chemistry offers comprehensive programs across biochemistry, analytical, inorganic, organic, physical and materials chemistry. We foster scientific curiosity, analytical rigor and hands-on discovery, preparing students for meaningful careers in the chemical sciences through innovative teaching, cutting-edge research and strong mentorship.
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History & Mission
The Department of Chemistry at the University of Louisville pursues excellence and inclusiveness in its work to educate and serve its community through:
- Teaching diverse undergraduate and graduate students to develop productive chemists and biochemists who are engaged citizens and scholars;
- Conducting cutting-edge research to advance understanding of the physical world and provide molecules, methods and models to improve the human condition;
- Providing engaged service to the profession and expanding outreach to local and global communities.
Who we serve
The Department of Chemistry at the University of Louisville serves a broad and diverse community of learners – from first-year undergraduates to doctoral researchers shaping the future of the field.
At the undergraduate level, we support students pursuing the bachelor of science in biochemistry, the bachelor of science in chemistry and the bachelor of arts in chemistry as they prepare for careers in industry, research, education, and graduate and professional school. We also serve a large population of pre-professional students who build the strong chemistry foundation that medicine, dentistry, pharmacy and the health sciences demand.
At the graduate level, our master's and PhD programs serve students seeking advanced training across the chemical sciences. Through rigorous coursework, close faculty mentorship and immersive research, our graduate students develop the technical expertise, scientific independence and professional skills that careers in academia, industry, national laboratories, government and emerging interdisciplinary fields require.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Both our BA and BS cover the chemistry you need for a career in the health sciences. The BS in Biochemistry is designed specifically to build the core chemistry, biochemistry and biology that prepare you for medical, dental, pharmacy and graduate school.
Many. Instructors are available by email and during office hours, and teaching assistants hold office hours and help sessions – many in the Chemistry Nook, BAB 335. Most 200- and 300-level courses offer Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) facilitators, students who have excelled in historically challenging courses and lead regular review sessions. REACH also offers free tutoring for many 100-, 200- and 300-level courses.
Yes. The Society for Undergraduate Chemistry Students (SUCS) and the Chemistry Graduate Student Association are student-run organizations creating a welcoming environment and fostering a love for chemistry. SUCS and CGSA host social events throughout the year and connect students at every stage of their degree through mentorship.
Yes. Each semester brings opportunities to conduct research in our laboratories alongside field-leading faculty, along with a range of internships. Because offerings change each term, interested students should contact the director of undergraduate studies to learn what's currently available.
Our PhD students currently receive an annual stipend of $26,000, with financial support typically lasting five years.
Louisville's cost of living is relatively low compared with major U.S. cities. One-bedroom apartments across the metro average roughly $1,000 to $1,150 per month. Many graduate students keep costs manageable by sharing housing with roommates, and the stipend is designed to support a modest cost of living.
No. You're encouraged to contact professors of interest and mention them in your personal statement, but it isn't required.
Harness the Power of Molecular Science
Ready to turn your passion for molecular science into professional impact? Join the UofL Department of Chemistry and build the analytical foundation that industry, medicine and research demand.