About the Department

Students who major in Chemistry, Biochemistry or an affiliated program at SUNY Oneonta are rewarded with a unique and rewarding experience that prepares them to succeed no matter what path they choose after graduation. Students in all courses in our department enjoy a rigorous and in-depth experience. Our classes are small, with most upper-level chemistry labs having fewer than 18 students (some as small as 8). All of our laboratories are taught by faculty members (no teaching assistants) and we have the most modern teaching and research instrumentation available anywhere. Unlike larger colleges and universities, all of our facilities and instruments are available for hands-on use by students beginning in their freshman year!

Undergraduates in our program enjoy close working relationships with our young and energetic faculty. Many complete a research project before graduation, some starting in their freshman year. For the past eight consecutive years we have had students write competitive on-campus grant proposals to support their research programs and fund their travel (independently) to present their research results at major scientific meetings. About half of our majors go on to graduate or medical/health-professions schools after graduation, about a quarter begin as entry-level scientists in chemical industries and the balance go on to become successful high school chemistry teachers.

Whatever your personal or career goals, our caring and knowledgeable faculty are here to support you to make sure that you succeed and reach your highest possible potential!