FOR PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS

Chemistry, Scholarships, Etc.

Why major in Chemistry?

Chemistry can serve as a basis for a wide variety of job opportunities. Students can go directly from college into the work force working in a lab or in a number of other placements or they can pursue a graduate degree in chemistry. Students can combine a chemistry major with minor or a second major in disciplines such as biology, business, education, and others. Pre-med students might consider a chemistry major also.

Why go to Trinity for a Chemistry Degree?

Small classes with close contact with professor. No chemistry class will have over 30 students and most will be under 20. Unlike the larger school where very large class size are the standard and where labs are taught by graduate students, all of the classes at Trinity are taught by Ph.D. chemists and the laboratories are instructed by the course professor as well.

Success of our graduates. Graduates from Trinity have had no problem being admitted to graduate school in chemistry, usually with tuition waivers and generous $20,000 assistantships. Since our major was instituted in 1980, 14% of chemistry graduates have obtained a Ph.D. in chemistry from such schools as Northwestern U., Texas A&M, Loyola U., Rutgers U., and U. of Michigan. Another 14% have obtained an M.D. or a Ph.D. in a discipline other than chemistry. Our alumni are working in a variety of chemical industries, teaching, or Argonne National Laboratory.

Research opportunities while attending school. Opportunities exist for working with Ph.D. chemists in research projects onsite or at nearby places such as Argonne National Laboratory. Click here for opportunities.

CHEMISTRY DEPARTMENTAL SCHOLARSHIPS

Departmental Scholarships
Each year, the department may award chemistry scholarships to incoming freshmen in the amount ranging from $1,000 - $5,000. These awards are renewable with a minimum gpa of 3.0. Applicants must have a minimum gpa of 3.0 in high school with a 24 ACT. A recommendation from their high school teacher is required as well as a two page essay on why they want to major in chemistry. All information is due to the financial aid office by January 15 (later if funds are not all depleted).

Dr. Luke & Pauline Schaap Science Scholarship
One $1,000 award is available for a rising junior or senior science major. Preference will be given to a chemistry student, as well as those with financial need. Student must possess a minimum 3.0 gpa and demonstrate Christian integrity and commitment.

VanderVelde Junior Scholars Award
This award of $1,000 is designed to provide outstanding junior or senior students the experience of working closely with a mentoring professor in chemistry. Work of a research nature is expected.

NON-MONETARY CHEMISTRY DEPARTMENT AWARDS

CRC Freshman Chemistry Award
Awarded to the top first year student taking general chemistry.

Chemistry Department Honors Award
Awarded to the outstanding graduating senior in the chemistry department at the spring honors convocation.

ACS Polyed Organic Chemistry Award
Awarded for outstanding performance by an undergraduate chemistry major in the two semester organic sequence.