Chemistry is often called the “central science” which is evident by the department’s undergraduate research on biological, medical, ecological, geological, environmental and other systems vital to Alaska.  Instrumentation in the department is research grade and is routinely used by nearly a dozen of our laboratory-based courses.  The department places an emphasis on computational chemistry (molecular modeling) and has a very functional computing center; some undergraduate projects have even used the University's supercomputing facility.    Our baccalaureate programs are nationally accredited by the American Chemical Society.

The curriculum is planned for the student majoring in chemistry and for the non-major who needs competency in the theories and techniques in contemporary chemistry. The department also offers a program in biochemistry/molecular biology, environmental and forensic chemistry.

Algebra and chemistry

Biology, calculus and physics

The American Chemical Society Student Chapter at UAF is involved with outreach and tutoring.

Most UAF chemistry graduates continue on in medical, dental, veterinary, pharmacy and graduate school. The biochemistry/molecular biology graduate program is nationally ranked. Graduates have found employment throughout the state in such areas as high school teachers, university faculty, medical professions, at federal and state agencies, the University of Alaska, Analytica International, Flint Hills, Alaska Lumber & Pulp Co., ARCO, the Alyeska Pipeline, Co., Quantaro and BoreoChem. The forensic chemistry option prepares chemists to work in conjunction with law enforcement agencies. The chemistry degree, biochemistry/molecular biology and environmental chemistry options are accredited by the American Chemical Society.

UAF Chemistry Department
UAF Catalog description
Chemistry degree worksheet

• BA degree (PDF)
• BS degree (PDF)
• BS in Molecular Biology/Biochemistry (PDF)
• BS in Environmental Chemistry (PDF)
• BS in Forensic Chemistry (PDF)

American Chemical Society, Alaska Chapter & Chemistry jobs in Alaska