Idaho State University

What you'll study

This programme provides a broad chemistry foundation—general, organic, analytical, inorganic and physical chemistry—alongside specialised coursework and laboratory work in optics and quantum chemistry. You will study the theoretical and experimental aspects of how light interacts with matter, quantum mechanical descriptions of molecular structure and spectroscopy, and the application of these principles to real-world materials and devices.

• Core chemistry modules: General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry and Chemical Thermodynamics.
• Optics and spectroscopy: Foundations of Optics, Molecular Spectroscopy, Laser Spectroscopy, Optical Materials and Photonics, experimental lab courses emphasising spectroscopic techniques (UV‑Vis, IR, Raman, fluorescence).
• Quantum chemistry and theory: Introductory Quantum Mechanics for Chemists, Computational Chemistry, Quantum Chemical Methods, electronic structure theory and its applications to chemical reactivity and spectroscopy.
• Supporting maths and physics: Calculus, Differential Equations, and Physics courses covering electromagnetism and wave phenomena to provide the mathematical and physical background necessary for optics and quantum topics.
• Laboratory and research experience: Progressive lab modules emphasise quantitative measurement, instrument operation and data analysis; students are encouraged to undertake independent research projects with faculty in optics, spectroscopy or computational chemistry.
• Capstone and electives: Senior capstone or research thesis, with electives available in materials chemistry, nanoscience, semiconductor physics, and instrumentation for students wishing to tailor the degree toward photonics or quantum materials.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have completed secondary education with strong performance in science and mathematics. Typical preparation includes chemistry and mathematics (calculus or pre‑calculus) and preferably physics. Entrance to the programme usually requires meeting the university's undergraduate admission standards and any departmental coursework prerequisites.

• Academic preparation: Secondary qualifications demonstrating competence in chemistry and mathematics; preparation in physics is strongly recommended.
• GPA and test scores: Admission decisions are based on the overall academic record; standardised test requirements (if any) follow university policy and may be optional or considered alongside other materials.
• Additional materials: Personal statement outlining interest in chemistry/optics, and any relevant laboratory or research experience can strengthen an application. Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and descriptions of completed science courses.

Career prospects

Graduates with this combination of chemistry, optics and quantum training are well placed for a range of careers in industry, national laboratories and further study. The programme equips students for roles that require an understanding of light–matter interactions, spectroscopy, materials characterisation and computational modelling.

• Analytical and spectroscopic laboratories (chemical analysis, quality control, instrumentation)
• Photonics and optoelectronics companies (device development, materials testing, optical engineering support)
• Semiconductor and materials manufacturing (characterisation of optical and electronic properties)
• Research positions at national laboratories and government agencies focused on optics, materials and energy
• Computational chemistry and modelling roles in pharmaceutical, materials or chemical companies
• Postgraduate study (master’s or PhD) in chemistry, optical sciences, materials science or related fields, leading to academic or advanced technical careers

Why study at Idaho State University

Idaho State University offers a chemistry programme with opportunities for hands‑on laboratory work and close faculty mentorship. The department emphasises undergraduate research, allowing students to work alongside faculty on projects in spectroscopy, optical materials and computational chemistry.

• Undergraduate research opportunities: Students can participate in faculty-led research projects and gain experience with modern spectroscopic and optical instrumentation.
• Interdisciplinary connections: Collaboration across physics, engineering and materials science provides pathways into photonics and device-related work.
• Regional partnerships: Proximity to research institutions and industry partners offers internship and employment possibilities in applied optics and materials testing.
• Preparation for next steps: The curriculum balances practical laboratory skills, theoretical training and computational methods, preparing graduates for technical roles or further graduate study in optics, quantum chemistry and related fields.