Chemistry majors develop critical thinking and observation skills, while learning lab techniques.

Mount St. Joseph University in Cincinnati, Ohio offers a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry designed to prepare students for graduate school, healthcare professions, and careers in industry or education. With small class sizes, personal faculty mentorship, and hands-on laboratory experience from day one, our program combines academic rigor with individual attention and real-world relevance.
90.5% 1-Year Career Outcomes Rate for School of Arts and Sciences
Scholarships Available: Schmidlapp CITE
Most of our students choose co-op experiences to augment their training

Chemistry at the Mount

  Why Study Chemistry at Mount St. Joseph University?
At Mount St. Joseph University, the Chemistry major offers more than just coursework—it’s a personalized, high-impact experience that prepares students for real-world success. Our small class sizes mean you’ll work closely with expert faculty who are dedicated to your growth, both academically and professionally. From your first semester, you’ll engage in hands-on lab work and have access to modern instrumentation, collaborative research opportunities, and individualized advising tailored to your career goals.
Whether you're preparing for medical, pharmacy, or graduate school, or planning a career in industry or education, MSJ’s Chemistry program equips you with the scientific foundation and critical thinking skills employers and graduate programs seek. Rooted in the Mount’s values-based liberal arts tradition, our curriculum fosters ethical reasoning, problem-solving, and a commitment to serving others—hallmarks of a well-rounded scientist.
At the Mount, you won’t be a number. You’ll be mentored, challenged, and supported every step of the way.
  Career and Graduate School Pathways
Graduates of the Chemistry program at Mount St. Joseph University pursue a wide range of meaningful careers and advanced degrees. With a strong foundation in chemical principles, laboratory techniques, and problem-solving skills, our students are well-prepared for medical school, pharmacy school, graduate programs in chemistry or biochemistry, and careers in scientific industry, education, and public health.
Recent alumni have gone on to become physicians, pharmacists, research scientists, and educators—many earning scholarships and placements at top graduate and professional schools. Through individualized advising, internship opportunities, and faculty-mentored research, MSJ students build competitive résumés and gain the confidence to thrive in whatever path they choose.
Your journey in chemistry at the Mount is not just about mastering content—it’s about discovering your future and being fully equipped to achieve it.
  Hands-On Lab and Research Experience
At Mount St. Joseph University, chemistry comes to life through hands-on learning from day one. Our students don’t just watch experiments—they conduct them, interpret results, and learn to troubleshoot like real scientists. With access to modern lab spaces and small class sizes, you’ll develop technical skills and scientific confidence in a supportive environment where faculty know your name and your goals.
In addition to core lab courses, students can engage in independent research projects, summer internships, and faculty-led investigations in areas such as biochemistry, environmental chemistry, and molecular biology. Whether you're analyzing data, presenting at conferences, or exploring new scientific questions, you’ll gain practical experience that sets you apart in graduate applications and job interviews alike.
Science is hands-on at MSJ—because learning should be active, relevant, and real.
  Supportive Faculty and Personalized Advising
One of the greatest strengths of the Chemistry program at Mount St. Joseph University is our commitment to individualized student support. Our faculty aren’t just teachers—they’re mentors who take the time to understand your goals, interests, and challenges. With small class sizes and an open-door culture, students benefit from meaningful, one-on-one relationships with professors who are invested in their academic success and personal growth.
 
From choosing courses and preparing for graduate school exams to finding internships or navigating career decisions, you’ll have dedicated faculty advisors walking alongside you every step of the way. Whether you're planning for medical school, pursuing a research career, or exploring where chemistry can take you, our personalized advising helps you stay on track and thrive.
At MSJ, you’ll never go it alone—you’ll be guided by a team that cares.
  Internships and Real-World Opportunities
Mount St. Joseph University’s Chemistry program connects classroom learning with real-world application through meaningful internships and professional experiences. Located in the Greater Cincinnati region, MSJ offers students access to a wide range of internship placements in healthcare, pharmaceutical companies, research labs, and educational settings.
Our faculty and Career Center work closely with students to identify opportunities that align with their goals—whether that’s shadowing medical professionals, gaining lab experience in industrial settings, or working on community-focused science initiatives. These hands-on experiences not only build technical and professional skills, but also help students clarify career paths and make valuable industry connections before graduation.
MSJ students graduate with more than a degree—they leave with experience, confidence, and a network to launch what’s next.

My favorite part was applying classroom concepts to real research problems. The process of trial and error made me a more persistent and thoughtful scientist. Being a student-athlete taught me discipline and time management—skills that translate directly to research and academics. Find something you’re genuinely interested in. When you care about the work, the experience becomes more rewarding.

 

 Ph. D. Student in Materials Science at University of Cincinnati

 

Nicholas Jackson - Mount St. Joseph University - B.S. Chemistry '25

"I really felt like the professors at the mount had a genuine interest in each of the students and went above and beyond to ensure we were successful. My first job after graduation was because a chemistry professor took an interest in helping me! I did not realize how much of their personal time they donated to students until I had graduated and was working, but I greatly appreciate everything they did for me!"

 

Quality Manager at Kao

 

Nicole Suttles - Mount St. Joseph University - B.S. Chemistry '17

"At the Mount, I remember my teachers being available all the time. Mr. Feldhake and Sr. Mary Lucia were in the department all the time, even when not in class.  There was a small study room available in the department. Since I was a commuter student, I spent hours and hours in the study room and would run to ask for help with chem problems whenever I needed help. The concept of office hours was unheard of. The instructors were always there."

 

Former VP of Academic Affairs at El Camino College

 

Jean Shankweiler - Mount St. Joseph University - B.S. Chemistry '81

"I owe my confidence in my content to the Physical Science department at MSJ. The one on one conversations I was able to have with my professors really helped me understand the importance of education and gaining knowledge. The access was key. I never once didn’t feel like I didn’t belong in the program, even though sometimes it was very difficult. I was able to do one-on-one research with Dr. Hotz which was really an awesome experience, it really made me appreciate the art of Organic Chemistry."

 

Northwest High School Science Teacher & Adjunct at MSJ

 

Danielle Stosur - Mount St. Joseph University - B.S. Chemistry '13

"The Mount’s chemistry program was a great opportunity. The accessibility and knowledgeability of the professors as well as the breadth of information covered in the curriculum provided a solid foundation in the sciences and allowed me to see what was available in the field. I was able to grow that foundation during my internship at Patheon in my senior year and at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital after graduating where I worked in the NMR-based Metabolomics Core for several years. All of these experiences (and a little extra research on career paths) led me to biomedical engineering where I earned a master’s degree, and ultimately helped pave the path to where I am now."

 

Biomedical Engineering PhD Student at Johns Hopkins

 

Stuart Bauer - Mount St. Joseph University - B.S. Chemistry '14

News and Updates

Stay up to date with the most recent chemistry program news and events; visit the Department of Biomedical & Natural Sciences page.

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