hemistry occupies a key position in the modern sciences, influencing nearly every aspect of human enterprise from agriculture, industry, and medicine to theoretical research on the origin and structure of the universe. It forms not only a basis for understanding non-living material systems-its traditional domain-but biological systems and many psychological processes as well. Ultimately, most phenomena in biology, medicine, geology, and environmental sciences can be stated in terms of the chemical and physical behavior of atoms and molecules. A major in chemistry not only serves students who intend to pursue a career in chemistry; it is also provides a sound foundation for related careers such as medicine and environmental science, teaching, law, business, art conservation, and journalism.  

The chemistry curriculum at Purchase is dedicated to introduce students to all of the principal areas of modern chemistry including organic, inorganic, physical, biological, analytical, and environmental chemistry. A career in chemistry, or a closely allied field, demands that the individual evolve toward a self-teaching style of scholarly independence. The chemistry curriculum at Purchase provides a foundation from which this long range educational goal can be achieved.