"In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous."

This reflection of Aristotle, which captures our outlook on the endlessly fascinating world of research in chemistry and biochemistry, is inscribed on the cornerstone of the Chemistry and Biochemistry Research Building.

This home reflects the emergence of our Department as a regional leader in scientific research. We continue to enjoy the greatest success in recruiting outstanding faculty and research professionals, in acquiring new research instrumentation, and in expanding the size and quality of our graduate program. Our growing prominence helped move MSU into the Carnegie Foundation's highest-tier of research universities with "very high research activity". MSU is one of only two universities in the Northwest to achieve this distinction.

As an integral part of our scientific lives, we are committed to excellence in the training the next generation of scientists. Our faculty, staff, and students share a common vision of maintaining a collegial environment in which the professional, intellectual, and personal growth of each individual is nurtured. We strive to stimulate all of our students to learn, to imagine, and to discover. We strive to equip them with every tool that they need to flourish in their own exciting and rewarding careers.

And all of this is happens in "the last best place on earth"! Thank you for your interest in our department. I invite you to browse our web pages, and to write, call, or -- best of all -visit us in Bozeman to learn more about us, our science, and opportunities for undergraduate and graduate studies in Big Sky country.

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry has a broad reach on campus, administering a degree program as well as classes for students in nursing, engineering, physics, biology, pre-med, and other disciplines. At any given time, 500 to 1,000 undergraduates are enrolled in the various classes we offer, with about 90 of those students pursuing one of our three undergraduate majors:

  • Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
  • Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (teaching option)
  • Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (Biochemistry option)

Our degree program - certified by the American Chemical Society - is diverse and flexible, allowing students to tailor studies to their interests. All coursework is career- and employment-directed, preparing students for diverse careers in industry, teaching, and research.  If you are seeking a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry please contact the undergraduate program assistant at 406-994-4224 for additional information on our programs.

If you are interested in our Department's graduate program, we offer both MS and PhD degrees in either Biochemistry or Chemistry.  We feel strongly that our graduate program is the best in the country.  And while we admit our bias, we know that after you visit our department and visit Bozeman, you may feel the same way!  Please take the time to look at our graduate program webpage, peruse the Graduate Student Association webpage and contact the Graduate Program Director, Doreen Brown at dbrown@montana.edu for additional information.