Colorado State University

What you'll study

The programme builds a strong foundation in general, organic and physical chemistry before moving into specialised topics in optics and quantum chemistry. Early semesters cover introductory and service courses: general chemistry with laboratory, calculus, physics for scientists, and introductory chemical analysis. Mid to upper‑division modules include physical chemistry (thermodynamics and kinetics), quantum mechanics for chemists, molecular spectroscopy, photochemistry, and advanced laboratory courses that emphasise instrumental methods.

Specialist and elective courses commonly available in this track include:

• Quantum Chemistry and Molecular Electronic Structure
• Optical Spectroscopy (UV–Vis, IR, Raman, fluorescence)
• Laser Spectroscopy and Experimental Optics
• Photophysics and Photochemistry
• Computational Chemistry and Quantum Modelling
• Solid‑state and Materials Chemistry with applications to photonic materials
• Advanced Instrumentation and Analytical Methods
• Capstone laboratory or independent research project under faculty supervision

Hands‑on laboratory work, data analysis and computational exercises are integral throughout the degree. Many students undertake a senior thesis or extended research project in a faculty research group, gaining experience with lasers, spectrometers, cryogenic or vacuum systems, and quantum simulation tools where available. Interdisciplinary electives from physics, electrical engineering and materials science are recommended to broaden experimental and theoretical competence.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a strong background in high school mathematics (including pre‑calculus or calculus), chemistry and physics. Typical incoming students have completed courses in algebra, trigonometry, introductory calculus, general chemistry and a physics sequence or equivalent. Practical laboratory experience and familiarity with basic computing or programming are advantageous.

Admission is competitive and evaluated on overall academic record, recommendation letters and preparation in STEM subjects. International applicants should present recognised secondary school qualifications equivalent to U.S. high school completion and meet the university's English language requirements. Prospective students intending to focus on optics and quantum chemistry are encouraged to highlight relevant coursework, summer research, or extracurricular laboratory experience in their application.

Career prospects

Graduates with a chemistry degree concentrated in optics and quantum chemistry are well placed for a range of careers. Common directions include:

• Research roles in photonics, optical instrumentation, spectroscopy and quantum materials in industry or national laboratories
• Graduate study (MSc/PhD) in chemistry, physics, materials science or engineering with a focus on quantum technologies, lasers or optical materials
• Roles in instrumentation development, analytical laboratories and quality control where spectroscopic and analytical skills are required
• Careers in emerging quantum information and sensing industries, including applied research and prototype development
• Technical positions in chemical, materials or semiconductor companies, and opportunities in patent law, scientific consulting and data analysis after additional training where appropriate

Undergraduate research and internship experience substantially increase employability and help graduates target specific sectors such as medical optics, renewable energy, telecommunications or defence‑related photonics.

Why study at Colorado State University

Colorado State University offers a research‑active Department of Chemistry with modern teaching laboratories and opportunities for close faculty mentorship. Undergraduate students can join research groups working on spectroscopy, materials for optoelectronics, computational chemical physics and related experimental topics, gaining early exposure to advanced instrumentation and experimental design.

Being located in Colorado provides access to a strong regional ecosystem of optics, photonics and quantum technology employers as well as national laboratories and research collaborations. The university supports undergraduates with advising, honours and research programmes, internship and co‑op links, and campus facilities that include instrument suites for spectroscopy and computational resources. These resources, combined with interdisciplinary coursework, prepare graduates for both immediate employment and further study in optics and quantum chemistry fields.