Chemistry

Chemistry: Major

Holy Cross is a leader in chemistry education. In fact, the “Discovery Chemistry” lab-based guided inquiry style of teaching began at Holy Cross, and serves as a model for the national chemical education community. 

The curriculum provides students with a strong background in fundamental principles and theories of chemistry with hands-on experience using state-of-the-art laboratory equipment. The program is laboratory intensive, beginning with the Discovery Chemistry core courses in general and organic chemistry. Advanced courses allow students to develop the skills and gain knowledge needed to become effective scientists and independent researchers. The department has a very active research program, and faculty members are committed to giving students opportunities within their research. As of result of these opportunities, Holy Cross undergraduates regularly contribute to scientific publications and travel to professional conferences. 

Our formula for success has led the chemistry department to produce among the nation’s highest number of chemistry graduates and is a top baccalaureate origin for Ph.D.s in chemistry.

Program Highlights

Students gain experience and knowledge in all the major areas of modern chemistry including organic, analytical, physical, inorganic, and biochemistry and have an opportunity to focus their program on a particular area of chemistry through research and elective courses. The department also provides:

  • A flexible major that, when completed together with one year of research, allows students to become accredited by the American Chemical Society
  • The opportunity to join the biochemistry concentration
  • The opportunity to become certified as a secondary or middle school chemistry teacher in Massachusetts by participating in the Teacher Education Program
Classroom
Discovery Chemistry

Learn more about the lab-based approach to teaching chemistry that began at Holy Cross and serves as a national model.

Students working in a lab
Research

Collaborate on innovative research with professors on a range of topics in the field.

Smith Labs
Facilities

The department is housed in the state-of-the-art integrated science complex and features modern instrumentation.

Chemistry News

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Holy Cross Bestows 2021 Sanctae Crucis Awards
When asked about their 2021 Sanctae Crucis Award ahead of the virtual celebration on May 4, 2021, each honoree offered a variation of the above. In every interview, they expressed surprise and humility, citing the family, friends, colleagues and fellow …
(left to right) Kenneth Mills, Ellen Perry and Stephanie Yuhl
Three Holy Cross Faculty Appointed to Endowed Professorships
Kenneth Mills, of the department of chemistry, Ellen Perry, of the department of classics and Stephanie Yuhl, of the department of history, have been appointed to endowed positions at the College, which they will hold through June 2024.
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Holy Cross Chemistry Professor Blends Roles as Scientist and Influencer to Inspire Students
Professor Andre Isaacs is taking a fresh approach to move students to impact the world