Marymount University

What you'll study

The programme builds a strong foundation in general, organic, inorganic and physical chemistry, then advances into specialised areas relevant to optics and quantum chemistry. Core coursework emphasises laboratory skills, quantitative problem solving and computational methods.

• Foundations: General Chemistry, Chemical Laboratory Techniques, Analytical Chemistry and Instrumentation.
• Physical and Quantum Chemistry: Thermodynamics, Chemical Kinetics, Quantum Mechanics for Chemists and Spectroscopy.
• Optics and Photonics-focused modules: Molecular and Optical Spectroscopy, Photochemistry, Introduction to Optics, Laser Principles and Optical Materials.
• Supporting science and computation: Calculus, Linear Algebra, Physics (mechanics and electromagnetism), and Computational Chemistry or Programming for Scientists.
• Advanced and elective options: Solid State Chemistry, Nanomaterials, Advanced Spectroscopic Methods, Ultrafast Spectroscopy, and projects in quantum materials.
• Practical experience: Extensive laboratory courses, an independent senior research project or capstone, and opportunities for internships or co‑operative placements with regional research labs and industry partners.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent with strong performance in science and mathematics. Typical competitive applicants have studied chemistry and higher level mathematics courses (algebra, precalculus or calculus) and physics at secondary level.

• Academic preparation: High school chemistry and mathematics recommended; coursework in physics is advantageous.
• Grades: A solid overall academic record; specific grade thresholds are set by the university admissions office rather than the programme description.
• Additional materials: Personal statement emphasising interest in chemistry and research, and at least one academic reference if available. Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and descriptions of completed science courses.
• Placement and preparedness: Incoming students may be advised to take placement assessments in mathematics or chemistry to determine appropriate first‑year courses.

Career prospects

Graduates with a chemistry degree concentrating in optics and quantum chemistry are prepared for a wide range of roles in industry, government and academia. Many enter technical positions immediately, while others continue to graduate or professional studies.

• Laboratory chemist or research technician in photonics, materials science or chemical analysis laboratories.
• Roles in instrumentation, spectroscopy and optical component development for companies in telecommunications, defence, medical devices or energy.
• Further study in chemistry, materials science, optical engineering or physics at graduate level leading to research scientist positions.
• Careers in patent and technical consulting, quality control, regulatory science, or science education.
• Opportunities in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area with federal laboratories, research institutes and technology firms for internships and entry‑level employment.

Why study at Marymount University

Marymount offers a personalised undergraduate experience with small class sizes and close faculty mentoring, which benefits students undertaking research‑intensive and laboratory courses. The chemistry curriculum emphasises hands‑on laboratory training and undergraduate research projects, giving students practical experience in spectroscopy, optics and computational techniques.

Located in the Washington, D.C. region, Marymount provides access to nearby research institutions, government agencies and industry partners for internships, collaborative research and professional networking. The university supports student development through advising, career services and connections that help translate an undergraduate chemistry education into real‑world opportunities.