Doane University

What you'll study

This programme covers the full breadth of a chemistry major while providing specialised coursework and laboratory experience in optics and quantum chemistry. Core topics include general chemistry, organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, inorganic chemistry and physical chemistry. Specialised modules focus on quantum mechanics for chemists, molecular spectroscopy, optical materials and photonics, and laser and optical instrumentation.

• Foundations: General Chemistry, Chemical Quantitative Analysis, Organic Chemistry (lecture and lab), Inorganic Chemistry.
• Physical and theoretical chemistry: Physical Chemistry (thermodynamics and kinetics), Quantum Chemistry, Statistical Mechanics, Computational Chemistry methods.
• Optics and spectroscopy: Molecular Spectroscopy, Optical Properties of Materials, Photonics and Laser Laboratory techniques, Instrumentation and Optical Measurement.
• Practical experience: Advanced laboratory courses, instrumentation labs (spectrometers, lasers, optical microscopes), data analysis and scientific computing (MATLAB/Python/R where appropriate).
• Research and capstone: Sustained undergraduate research under faculty supervision, seminar series, and a senior capstone or thesis project that often involves experimental optics or theoretical quantum chemistry work.
• Interdisciplinary options: Opportunities to take elective courses in physics, materials science, mathematics and engineering to strengthen optical and quantum training.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent and demonstrate strength in mathematics and the physical sciences. Preparatory coursework in high‑school chemistry and physics and at least pre‑calculus or calculus is strongly recommended. Successful candidates typically present a solid academic record, evidence of quantitative skills, and a demonstrated interest in laboratory science.

Doane considers a holistic application; applicants may strengthen their file with examples of laboratory experience, independent projects, relevant extracurricular activities, and faculty or employer recommendations. Contact the admissions office for details on supporting materials and any test‑optional policies.

Career prospects

Graduates with a chemistry degree focused on optics and quantum chemistry move into a wide range of careers. The programme prepares students for graduate study (masters and PhD) in chemistry, chemical physics, materials science, photonics and optical engineering.

• Industry roles in photonics, optical instrumentation, materials development and chemical analysis.
• Laboratory scientist or analytical chemist positions in manufacturing, environmental testing, or pharmaceuticals.
• Technical roles in instrumentation companies (spectroscopy, lasers, sensors) and in product development or quality control.
• Opportunities in applied research, technology transfer, and start‑ups working on optical materials and quantum technologies.
• Teaching and science communication careers at secondary and community levels, often combined with certification or further study.

Why study at Doane University

Doane offers small class sizes, close faculty mentoring and numerous opportunities for undergraduate research—advantages that are especially important in experimental fields like optics and quantum chemistry. Students benefit from hands‑on access to teaching laboratories and instrumentation, personalised advising, and a liberal arts curriculum that develops communication and critical thinking alongside technical skills.

Programs emphasise experiential learning through research projects, internships with regional employers and collaborative cross‑disciplinary work. These features help students build a strong portfolio of practical skills and research experience to support career entry or competitive applications to graduate programmes.