Chemistry

Our Chemistry program equips you with the tools and knowledge to explore the molecular world and the skills to innovatively solve complex problems

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Dive deep into the molecular world

Our Chemistry Major

The field of Chemistry is vast, touching every aspect of our lives and our world. Our Chemistry program is designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of this fascinating field. You’ll not only learn about the core principles of chemistry but also gain the hands-on experience needed to excel in research, education, healthcare, or further academic pursuits.

  • Conduct experiments
  • Test hypotheses
  • Analyze data
  • Solve chemical problems
  • Collaborate with peers

Chemistry Major Requirements

Program Overview

Embark on a transformative journey through the molecular fabric of the world with our ACS-accredited Chemistry major. Our Chemistry program is a collaboration between Pitzer and Scripps Colleges. Reference each College’s academic catalog for degree requirements.

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Pitzer Chemistry Major Requirements

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Scripps Chemistry Major Requirements

Chemistry Faculty

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Amy Babbes

Visiting Assistant Professor of Chemistry

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Bethany Caulkins

Assistant Professor of Chemistry

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Thomas Davis

Lab Lecturer/General Chemistry

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Christopher Dettmar

Visiting Assistant Professor of Chemistry

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Sarah Gilman

Associate Professor of Biology

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Mary Hatcher- Skeers

Vice President for Academic Affairs

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Taehyung Kim

Visiting Professor of Chemistry

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Aaron Leconte

Associate Professor of Chemistry

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Mira Liu

Visiting Assistant Professor of Chemistry

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Joel L. Mackey

Visiting Assistant Professor of Chemistry

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Sadie Otte

Lab Lecturer of Chemistry

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Jia-Ahn Pan

Assistant Professor of Chemistry

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Kathleen Purvis-Roberts

Professor of Chemistry, Professor of Environmental Science

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Aaron Sheng

Visiting Assistant Professor of Chemistry

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Ethan Van Arnam

Associate Professor of Chemistry

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Anna G. Wenzel

Professor of Chemistry

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Nancy Williams

Associate Professor of Chemistry

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Sierra Williams

Assistant Professor of Chemistry

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Taia Wu

Visiting Assistant Professor of Chemistry

Chemistry Resources

Explore

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Nucleus West

The opening of the 65,000-square-foot Nucleus West facility has expanded our lab, classroom, and collaborative spaces.

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Research Opportunities

Conduct research with world-class faculty from Pitzer and Scripps Colleges through our Department of Natural Sciences.

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Lectures & Seminars

The Department of Natural Sciences hosts lectures every semester on a wide range of STEM topics.

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Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP)

Our Chemical Hygiene Plan provides guidance on how to safely and responsibly work with chemicals.

Faculty Insights

“My work is somewhat unusual in that it bridges ecology and chemistry and it’s been very fun and rewarding to work with students who are interested in merging those fields.”

Ethan Van Arnam
Associate Professor of Chemistry

Chemistry FAQs

Learn More

As a Chemistry graduate, you’ll be well prepared for the challenges of a rapidly evolving scientific landscape. Our Chemistry graduates go on to succeed in a wide variety of careers in the research, education, healthcare, biotechnology, and chemistry-related sectors.

You will explore analytical, physical, organic, inorganic, and biochemistry with depth and nuance. Our expert faculty and state-of-the-art facilities provide an environment where both knowledge and innovation thrive, offering you the tools to identify and address complex scientific questions. You’ll learn to think critically, develop and test hypotheses quantitatively, and communicate abstract scientific concepts clearly.