Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

Where big questions spark bold breakthroughs

Chemistry and biochemistry are the sciences that illuminate how our world works. If you enjoy asking questions, solving problems, running experiments, or uncovering the mechanics behind everything from medicines to clean energy, this field could be the perfect career path for you! 

A degree in Chemistry and Biochemistry opens doors to a wide range of careers in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, environmental science, forensics, food safety, education, healthcare, semiconductor technology, and more. Whether you want to work in industry or continue to medical or pharmacy school, a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Biochemistry will be your foundation. 

Why study Chemistry and Biochemistry at NAU

At NAU, you’ll study alongside faculty who are active researchers in areas including biochemistry, analytical chemistry, materials chemistry, and environmental chemistry. With small class sizes and access to research-grade laboratories, you’ll explore areas like spectroscopy, chromatography, molecular biology, and advanced instrumentation, and be encouraged to join research teams and contribute to publications. 

Chemistry and Biochemistry programs at NAU are designed for students pursuing graduate study, professional school, or research-intensive careers.  

You’ll learn in an environment where professors know your goals and help you find internships, research placements, and professional opportunities that align with your interests. 

Learning outcomes

As a student of Chemistry and Biochemistry at NAU, you will: 

• use traditional and modern laboratory equipment to measure chemical and physical properties of substances and be able to correlate the resulting data with chemical models of structure and reactivity. 
• understand the principal laws of thermodynamics and how these dictate the behavior of chemical substances. 
• memorize common substances, their physical properties, and reactions that they undergo. 
• apply knowledge of chemical reactivity to plan and execute the preparation of compounds from common starting materials. 

Dedicated support

Mentoring from expert faculty, opportunities for scholarships and paid assistantships, and built-in career preparation are just some of the ways NAU provides comprehensive support to you. You’ll also benefit from small class sizes and research-grade laboratories, ensuring you have everything you need to launch your career in chemistry successfully.

Scholarships and assistantships

From your first year through graduate school, the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers many opportunities to secure paid experience while earning your degree. You can work as a teaching assistant, student instructor, or research assistant to earn income and build professional skills. You can also explore scholarships specific to Chemistry and Biochemistry on ScholarshipUniverse.

Career readiness

At NAU, you’ll gain practical laboratory experience and develop proficiency with industry-standard instrumentation while learning essential skills like data analysis, problem-solving, scientific communication, and safe laboratory practice. Faculty-guided research will allow you to explore topics ranging from protein structure to environmental contaminants, while internships with biotech companies, government labs, health organizations, and semiconductor manufacturers give you a competitive edge. You’ll also have opportunities to present at conferences or contribute to publications, experiences that stand out to employers and graduate programs.