Inspiring faculty members, a carefully designed curriculum, and a new science center filled with cutting-edge technology offer Franklin College students interested in chemistry and physics a wealth of educational experiences.

Our graduates step into the workforce possessing the hands-on experience and critical-thinking skills necessary to tackle challenges in a variety of science-based careers.

Download the Chemistry and Physics Major Handout (PDF)

Departmental Highlights

While pursuing an interest in chemistry or physics, you will work one-on-one with dedicated faculty advocates who provide hands-on instruction to help you solidify your interests, understand various concepts, develop analytical skills, and foster technological skills that are essential to pursuing a variety of careers after graduation.

Students utilize technologically up-to-date labs equipped with a variety of instrumentation:

A nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometer
Gas chromatography-mass spectrometers (GCMS)
High pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) systems
Atomic absorption spectrometers (AAS)
Infrared (IR) spectrometers
A UV-visible spectrophotometer
A synthesis microwave
Ultrasound equipment

Special Programs

While on campus, students can also get involved in the chemistry student club, the earth science club, and national scientific honor societies that will help them connect with other students with similar interests, make new friends, and gain leadership experience.

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The faculty are so patient and groovy. They've set me up for events I only dreamed of when I first came to Franklin. Thanks to them I've interned at Homart Pharmaceuticals in Australia, worked at Eli Lilly, and presented (and placed) research at an American Chemical Society (ACS) conference! - Jade Harris '20
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Coming to Franklin College to further my education is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. The chemistry and physics department is second to none, with accomplished and caring professors who want nothing more than for you to succeed. I have never felt like I didn’t matter in a classroom in the science center, and the faculty and staff are absolutely responsible for this. I have been given amazing research and internship opportunities because of my advisors and mentors in the department connecting me with a network of professionals that want to help me to become by best self. The education at Franklin College as a whole is great, but the lasting impression the chemistry and physics department has on your career is invaluable. - Emily Dalton '21
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I think our chemistry and physics department is a hidden gem among the departments at Franklin. I have been absolutely blown away at both the level of passion the professors bring to teaching in their given subject and their level of knowledge! Every professor within the department brings a unique skill set that combined with their availability to students allows for ample opportunities for growth and learning. I am proud to have a major and minor within this department and I highly recommend it to any student with an interest in the sciences. - Jordan Johnson '21