University of Mount Union

What you'll study

The programme builds a strong core in general, organic, inorganic, analytical and physical chemistry, then layers in specialised topics in optics and quantum chemistry. Early years cover foundational lecture and laboratory work in general chemistry, calculus and physics to prepare you for quantitative and experimental study.

• Core modules: general chemistry, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, instrumental analysis and laboratory techniques.
• Mathematics and physics support: calculus, linear algebra, classical mechanics and electromagnetism as applied to optical systems.
• Optics and photonics: introductions to geometrical and physical optics, optical instrumentation, laser fundamentals, spectroscopy (UV‑Vis, IR, Raman, fluorescence), and experimental optics labs.
• Quantum chemistry and theory: quantum mechanics for chemists, molecular orbital theory, computational quantum chemistry methods (Hartree‑Fock, DFT basics) and applications to spectroscopy and materials.
• Laboratory and instrumentation: hands‑on experience with spectrometers, laser systems, optical fibres, detectors, and modern analytical instrumentation; emphasis on safe experimental practice and data analysis.
• Projects and capstone: an independent research project or honours thesis supervised by chemistry faculty, often involving optical measurements, computational modelling or interdisciplinary work with physics and engineering.

Elective topics may include materials chemistry, nanochemistry, surface science, semiconductor optics and advanced computational chemistry. The curriculum emphasises small‑group lab work, close faculty mentoring and the development of experimental, computational and communication skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed secondary education with strong performance in chemistry and mathematics. Background in high‑level algebra, precalculus or calculus and introductory physics is highly recommended to succeed in the quantum and optics components.

• Successful applicants typically demonstrate science coursework and laboratory experience from school or equivalent programmes.
• Preparatory coursework in calculus and physics will allow you to progress smoothly into physical chemistry and optics modules.
• Faculty value evidence of curiosity in experimental work or research, such as science project experience, laboratory internships or extracurricular involvement in STEM.
• Admission decisions consider the whole application; applicants who need additional preparation may be advised to take bridging maths or chemistry courses in the first year.

Career prospects

Graduates with chemistry training focused on optics and quantum chemistry are well placed for a variety of roles in industry, government and academia. The combination of hands‑on spectroscopy, laser work and computational skills is sought after in several sectors.

• Laboratory chemist or analyst in industrial and environmental testing laboratories using spectroscopic instrumentation.
• Roles in photonics and optics companies, including optical systems testing, instrumentation development and quality control.
• Materials and semiconductor industries, where understanding of optical properties and quantum behaviour is important for device development.
• Research assistantships and further study: many graduates progress to graduate programmes (MSc/PhD) in chemistry, physics, materials science, photonics or optical engineering.
• Technical positions in national laboratories, government agencies, or companies focused on sensors, imaging, spectroscopy and lasers.
• Careers in science communication, patent examination, or laboratory management where strong scientific understanding and communication skills are valued.

Why study at University of Mount Union

University of Mount Union offers a liberal‑arts environment with small class sizes and accessible faculty, enabling personalised mentorship and significant undergraduate research opportunities. The chemistry department emphasises experiential learning: students gain early access to laboratories and instrumentation and can participate in faculty‑led research projects in optics and spectroscopy.

• Close faculty supervision for capstone research and opportunities to present findings at regional conferences.
• Collaborative, interdisciplinary projects with physics and engineering topics, reflecting the cross‑cutting nature of optics and quantum chemistry.
• Support for internships and career development through the university’s professional services and local industry connections.