Eastern Washington University

What you'll study

The programme delivers a strong core in general, organic and physical chemistry, then adds focused coursework and laboratory experience in optics, spectroscopy and quantum chemical methods. Early years emphasise core chemical principles, laboratory technique and mathematics; later years concentrate on the theory and practice of light–matter interactions and quantum approaches to molecular structure and reactivity.

• Core chemistry modules: general chemistry, organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, physical chemistry and chemical instrumentation.
• Mathematics and physics foundations: calculus, linear algebra, and introductory physics relevant to optics and quantum mechanics.
• Optics and photonics: geometric and physical optics, laser fundamentals, optical materials and experimental techniques for measuring light–matter interactions.
• Quantum chemistry and spectroscopy: quantum mechanics for chemists, molecular electronic structure methods, vibrational and electronic spectroscopy, and interpretation of spectral data.
• Computational chemistry: numerical methods, quantum chemical software applications, modelling of spectroscopic properties and simulation of photophysical processes.
• Laboratory and practical training: progressive laboratory courses emphasising safe practice, instrumentation (spectrometers, lasers, detectors), experimental design and data analysis.
• Capstone and research: senior seminar, an independent research project or honours thesis carried out under faculty supervision, and opportunities to present findings at campus symposia.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a high-school diploma or equivalent with strong preparation in chemistry and mathematics. Successful candidates typically have taken college-preparatory courses in chemistry, algebra, geometry and calculus; physics at high-school level is strongly recommended.

• Academic preparation: background in chemistry and mathematics; placement testing or introductory college courses may be required for students with gaps in preparation.
• GPA and competitive entry: admission is based on overall academic record and preparation for a rigorous science programme; transfer applicants will be assessed on college coursework in science and maths.
• Supplementary material: personal statement, and for some applicants, letters of recommendation or examples of independent scientific work may strengthen an application.
• International students: must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements and provide certified academic transcripts.

Career prospects

Graduates are well prepared for laboratory and technical roles, industrial research, and further study. The blend of optics and quantum chemistry opens career paths across academic, industrial and public-sector settings where light-based technologies and molecular-level understanding are important.

• Research and development positions in photonics, optical sensing, materials science and chemical instrumentation.
• Analytical and quality-control roles in pharmaceuticals, environmental testing and manufacturing laboratories.
• Technical roles in semiconductor and optoelectronics industries, including applied spectroscopy and device characterisation.
• Graduate study and academic research in chemistry, physics, optics or engineering; preparation for doctoral programmes.
• Science-related careers in patent law, technical consulting, science policy and education (additional qualifications may be required).

Why study at Eastern Washington University

Eastern Washington University offers a chemistry programme designed for hands-on learning and close faculty mentorship. The department emphasises undergraduate research, providing students with opportunities to work alongside faculty on experimental and computational projects and to develop a substantial senior research experience.

• Small classes and accessible faculty: students benefit from regular contact with instructors and personalised advising for research and career planning.
• Laboratory and computational resources: modern teaching laboratories, spectroscopic instruments and computing resources support practical training in optics and quantum chemical modelling.
• Local internship and collaboration opportunities: proximity to regional industry, research organisations and a growing technology sector offers pathways to internships and applied projects.
• Preparation for next steps: the curriculum is structured to prepare graduates for technical employment or seamless transition to graduate programmes in chemistry, physics, engineering and related fields.