Department of Chemistry
Start your chemistry degree with a bang.
As early as your first year in Otterbein's Department of Chemistry, you can begin research in faculty-led
projects. You will also have the opportunity to travel with faculty to
present the results of this work at regional and national scientific
meetings during your third or fourth year. This work may be published,
increasing chances that you will be accepted to your top choice for
graduate school or receive excellent job offers.
Additionally, Otterbein's Department of Chemistry partners with external agencies, such as the National Science Foundation and the
Merck Institute for Education, to support for our curriculum and research. Because of these grants, Otterbein
offers undergraduates a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience
with a variety of instrumentation that is not commonly available at
other schools, such as Raman spectrometers and X-ray diffractometers.
Majors & Minors
We offer majors in Chemistry and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and minors in Chemistry and Pre-Professional Health Studies. Read more about our majors, minors, program and curriculum
Service Learning
CHEM 2800 - Analytical Chemistry
Hours: 3
A cornerstone course for developing skills in scientific measurement, analysis, and report writing, designed to train students in quantitative skills using statistical data analysis and computer programs, with an emphasis on spreadsheet computations. Basic skills in volumetric and potentiometric titrations, spectrophotometric analyses, and modern instrumental analysis techniques are taught. Students utilize their knowledge of chemistry to conduct chemical tests of interest to the students and community partner. Prerequisites: MATH 1700, CHEM 1500 and 1510 (or CHEM 1800 and 1810). Corequisites: CHEM 2810.
Student Research
Each department in the sciences encourages research among its majors. You may complete projects under the direction of faculty, and these projects may serve as independent studies, Distinction Projects, or Honor's Theses. Learn more.
Student Organizations and Opportunities
ACS Student Affiliates
Many students participate in the activities of the American Chemical Society (ACS) Student Affiliates, including National Chemistry Week, tours of local industry, tie-dying lab coats, and chemical demonstrations at area schools.
Undergraduate Research
Students may earn up to 4 credit hours toward the Chemistry major by participating in undergraduate research during the academic year. Many of these research projects are conducted as part of an Honors or Distinction project. Summer Research Assistant positions are also available for interested students. Contact Drs. Johnston or Tansey if you are interested.
Teaching Assistantships
As an undergraduate institution, the Department of Chemistry at Otterbein employs upper-level students to assist with laboratory preparation and instruction. Students have found these opportunities to be enjoyable and valuable training. Student TA's assist with labs in general chemistry, organic chemistry, analytical chemistry and chemistry courses for non-majors.
Internships
A wide variety of internship opportunities are offered by chemical industries in the greater Columbus area. Otterbein chemistry students have worked at local companies including Nestle, Ashland Chemical, Chemical Abstracts, Worthington Industries, Borden and Ross Labs. Up to 5 credit hours may be earned toward graduation requirements.