The chemistry degree curriculum is designed to provide a broad experience in the chemical field with laboratory experiences at all levels of instruction. Chemistry is a challenging major for a variety of reasons. With that said, there is high demand for chemistry and physics instruction due to the ROI of careers in engineering, medicine, animal science, food science, and chemical industry.
There are many opportunities for undergraduate research projects. We have a working biochemistry lab on campus that contracts with industry. Dr. Marshall hires student workers every year, especially students seeking a chemistry degree. Those working in the lab are usually working on a research project of their own; this is generally an advantage saved for graduate students at bigger schools. Additionally, the program features an excellent lab program that provides hands on experiences that mirror the content taught in lecture and try to lead you into research projects of your own. Lab assistant jobs in the teaching labs are common, and give excellent experience in the behind the scenes prep work for future laboratory jobs.
Educator Certification
Students also have the opportunity to spend one additional year and become certified to teach chemistry to high school students. Students gain all the advantages of a chemistry degree, fully prepared as a chemist, but also have a secure career path as a high school teacher. Many graduates try to teach chemistry without training in education, but this degree will ensure that you are well trained in classroom management and effective teaching techniques. Teaching is a noble and rewarding career, and the School of Education at LCU has an excellent reputation for training teachers.
Over the last 10 years approximately 58% of our students have gone straight from LCU into the work force and 42% of our graduates have gone into graduate or professional school. Nationally, about 62% of students go straight into the work force after a BS. The types of jobs that our 4-year graduates tend to get will see steady consistent growth over the next 10 years. The jobs for our students who go into graduate school are growing at a much faster rate.
Additionally, 100% of our graduates conducted original research and 67% presented that research off campus at NCUR or another conference. 61% of our alumni have applied for graduate or professional school and 100% were accepted into those programs. Our graduates are currently in school or working for the following prestigious entities: Carnegie Mellon Biomedical Engineering, TTUHSC Medical School, TTU Chemical Engineering, City of Lubbock Water Treatment Laboratory, Analytical Instruments of Houston, TTU Department of Environmental Toxicology, Osteogenics Biomedical Co., Versum Materials, Washington State University Department of Chemistry, Baylor Department of Chemistry, California State University-Bakersfield, Pepperdine University, Lipscomb University, Eastex Environmental Laboratory, Texas Department of Public Safety.