Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry

The Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry at Dartmouth College offers students a comprehensive foundation in the fundamental principles and applications of chemistry within a liberal arts context. This program is designed for students who seek a broad-based education that combines rigorous scientific training with exposure to the arts, humanities, and social sciences. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical laboratory skills, preparing graduates for diverse careers in research, education, industry, or further study in graduate or professional schools.

Students in the BA in Chemistry program engage in coursework covering organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry, complemented by mathematics and physics courses that underpin chemical concepts. The program encourages active participation in research projects, providing opportunities to work alongside faculty on current scientific investigations. This hands-on experience cultivates critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and meticulous laboratory techniques.

Dartmouth’s intimate class sizes and faculty mentorship foster a collaborative learning environment where students receive personalized attention and guidance throughout their undergraduate journey. The program also emphasizes the development of communication skills, ethical scientific practices, and the capacity to apply chemistry knowledge to societal challenges such as sustainability, health, and technology.

Graduates of the BA in Chemistry are well-equipped to pursue careers in scientific research, education, healthcare, environmental consulting, or industry. Many students opt to continue their education through graduate studies in chemistry or related fields, benefiting from Dartmouth’s strong academic reputation. Overall, the program aims to produce well-rounded, scientifically competent graduates who are prepared to contribute meaningfully to scientific progress and societal well-being.

Chemistry at Dartmouth College offers a comprehensive and rigorous program designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the fundamental principles of chemistry, as well as the practical skills necessary for research and professional careers in the sciences. The curriculum is structured to incorporate both theoretical coursework and hands-on laboratory experience, emphasizing critical thinking, problem-solving, and experimental techniques. Students begin their studies with foundational courses in general chemistry, gaining essential knowledge of atomic and molecular structure, chemical reactions, and thermodynamics. As they progress, they have the opportunity to explore more specialized areas such as organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry, and analytical chemistry. The program encourages exploration of interdisciplinary fields, including biochemistry and materials science, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals.

Dartmouth’s chemistry faculty are renowned for their research contributions and commitment to undergraduate education. Students are actively involved in research projects, often working alongside faculty members in well-equipped laboratories, which fosters a hands-on approach and cultivates independent thinking. The department also offers seminars, workshops, and colloquia featuring guest speakers from academia and industry, providing insight into current research trends and career pathways. Additionally, students have access to state-of-the-art instrumentation for their experiments, ensuring they acquire practical skills that are highly valued in graduate programs and industry positions. The program supports a broad range of career development activities, including internships, summer research opportunities, and study abroad programs, to prepare students for diverse careers in science, education, healthcare, and beyond. Graduates of the Dartmouth chemistry program leave equipped with a solid foundation in chemical principles, laboratory proficiency, and the critical analytical skills necessary for continued learning and professional success in the chemical sciences.

The Chemistry program at Dartmouth College offers an extensive curriculum designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of chemistry along with practical laboratory skills. The program requires completing a series of core courses including General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, and Inorganic Chemistry, which lay the foundation for advanced study in various subfields of chemistry. Students are also encouraged to participate in research projects, gaining hands-on experience in laboratories, and developing experimental techniques under the supervision of faculty members. Elective courses allow for specialization in areas such as Biochemistry, Materials Chemistry, or Chemical Biology, enabling students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals. In addition to coursework, the program emphasizes scientific communication, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary approaches. The degree requirements typically include a combination of lecture courses, laboratory work, and a senior thesis or project. Undergraduate students may have opportunities for internships and collaborations with industry or research institutions. To fulfill graduation requirements, students must accumulate a specified number of credits in chemistry courses, maintain a satisfactory GPA, and demonstrate proficiency in chemistry-related skills. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in scientific research, education, industry, or graduate studies in chemistry or related disciplines.

The Chemistry program at Dartmouth College offers a comprehensive educational experience supported by a variety of financial aid options to assist students in managing the costs of their studies. Dartmouth College is committed to providing accessible education to qualified students regardless of their financial backgrounds. The institution's financial aid program includes need-based grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and loan options designed to reduce the financial burden on students and their families. Need-based grants and scholarships are awarded based on an individual’s demonstrated financial need, as determined through the college’s comprehensive financial aid application process, which considers family income, assets, and overall financial circumstances. Dartmouth commits to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students, ensuring that talented students can pursue their education without undue financial hardship.

In addition to grants and scholarships, students have access to work-study programs that provide on-campus employment opportunities, allowing them to earn money to contribute toward educational expenses while gaining valuable work experience. The college also offers low-interest student loans, which enable students to finance part of their education with manageable repayment terms post-graduation. Dartmouth College encourages students and families to apply for financial aid early, as the application process involves submission of federal and institutional financial aid forms, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile.

Merit-based scholarships are less prominent at Dartmouth, as the college primarily emphasizes need-based aid, but some internal scholarships and fellowships may be available to exceptional students pursuing chemistry or related fields. Students are also advised to explore external scholarship opportunities from government agencies, private foundations, and professional organizations related to chemistry and science. Dartmouth’s financial aid philosophy is centered on ensuring that no qualified applicant is deterred from enrolling due to financial constraints.

Overall, financing studies at Dartmouth College is designed to be as accessible and flexible as possible, combining a holistic approach to need-based assistance with various funding options to support students throughout their educational journey. This commitment enables students to focus on their academic and research pursuits in chemistry, leveraging Dartmouth’s resources and support networks to succeed academically and professionally.

The Dartmouth College Chemistry program offers a comprehensive undergraduate curriculum designed to provide students with a strong foundation in both theoretical and experimental aspects of chemistry. The program emphasizes a rigorous approach to understanding chemical principles, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry. Students engage in laboratory work that develops their skills in data collection, analysis, and scientific reasoning, preparing them for diverse careers in research, industry, or further academic pursuits. The faculty members are renowned researchers who mentor students through individual projects, often involving cutting-edge techniques and modern instrumentation. In addition to coursework, students have opportunities for research assistantships, summer internships, and participation in national scientific conferences, fostering a vibrant scientific community. The program also encourages interdisciplinary study, allowing students to combine chemistry with other fields such as biology, environmental science, and engineering. Graduates of the Dartmouth College Chemistry program have gone on to successful careers in academia, pharmaceuticals, environmental agencies, and technology sectors, reflecting the program's reputation for excellence and comprehensive training. The department maintains state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with advanced analytical tools, ensuring students gain practical experience aligned with current industry standards. Overall, the program aims to cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and a deep understanding of chemical sciences, preparing students for impactful contributions in science and society.