Chemistry & Biochemistry Department

The study of chemistry, notably defined as the “central science,” prepares students for success in numerous occupations, including medicine, environmental fields, industry, teaching and law enforcement. The Chemistry and Biochemistry Department at Millsaps College is accredited through the American Chemical Society to offer the ACS degree certification in chemistry with an organic biochemistry or general chemistry track.

The ACS certified degree program provides rigorous, in-depth training for majors, better preparing them for graduate studies in chemistry or other advanced fields, and verifies that the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department is staffed by accomplished faculty, is supported by a modern infrastructure and maintains a strong, cohesive curriculum. Faculty provide an exceptional and supportive teaching environment as well as excellent mentoring and advising for all students.

Over the last 10 years, 62% of Millsaps graduates obtaining B.S. degrees in chemistry or biochemistry were accepted into medical, dental, pharmacy, optometry or physician assistant programs located in Mississippi, Florida, Kentucky, Tennessee, Louisiana and Texas. Of these medical school students an impressive 85% were accepted on their first try. A recent contributing factor to the success of Millsaps faculty in educating pre-health undergraduates stems from the $1.4 million grant awarded from the prestigious Howard Hughes Medical Institute to redesign our science curriculum. This new curriculum is aimed at expanding the number of students interested in pre-medical education and deepening scientific training for all students.

Chemistry and biochemistry majors are prepared for graduate school entrance exams and a profession in industry through a rigorous classroom experience that concludes in the senior year with oral and comprehensive exams.