Chemistry at W&M
The Department of Chemistry offers one of the nation's premier undergraduate programs, with a curriculum that spans chemical subdisciplines and emphasizes research. We also offer robust master’s programs that feature close faculty-student mentorship. Students in our programs use state-of-the-art instrumentation; interact with faculty from day-one general chemistry through advanced chemistry electives; and often share their research findings in peer-reviewed journals and at national conferences. With around 60 graduates from our programs each year, there's a place for everyone in chemistry at William & Mary.
Applied Learning
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Courses
Study a variety of courses for a well-rounded chemistry education including Research Practices in Chemistry (CHEM 195), Biochemistry (CHEM 314) and Mass Spectrometry (CHEM 456).*
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Research
Collaborate with faculty who have grants from the National Science Foundation (NSF) or other organizations that support undergraduate research.
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Study Abroad
Sign up for faculty-led winter programs and embedded programs that can help chemistry majors fit a study abroad experience into their busy schedule.
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PRIME Mentorship Program
Learn from peer mentors. Our PRIME Mentorship Program guides students through introductory general and organic chemistry courses, and helps them navigate the department and university.
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Student Organizations
Join the Chemistry Club, the National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers (NOBCChE), or become a PRIME mentor to other students.
Resources for Current Students
Rankings
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70 %American Chemical Society-approved
More than 70% of majors earn a B.S. degree approved by the American Chemical Society
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Top 30Best Colleges for Chemistry in AmericaNiche 2025
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# 14Best Science Lab FacilitiesThe Princeton Review 2025
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85 %Faculty Research
More than 85% of majors engage in faculty-mentored research
Outcomes
Chemistry graduates have a range of technical, analytical, and presentation skills that feed directly into "next steps". Some alumni choose to go directly into professional chemistry in private industry, governmental agencies or educational institutions—chemistry has a very favorable employment rate, even among recent graduates. Other alumni pursue health professions, engineering, law, or business. Of course, many graduates pursue further chemistry education, getting master's or doctorate degrees at top schools across the country.
Hear from a Student
"I cannot go an hour in the lab without learning something new. I am learning about different parts of chemistry I have not taken classes on yet. With the background knowledge I have gotten from the lab, it will be easier for me to learn the new information in these courses." — Grace LaFrancois '27, a chemistry and environment & sustainability double major.
Alumni & Friends
We love hearing from alumni! Keep us up to date on changes to your mailing address, and about your professional and personal lives, using our Send Us Your News form.
Support Chemistry
There are a large number of funds which support activities throughout the program. Your contribution to the Department of Chemistry help us offer our students the best possible learning experiences. You can also learn more about our endowments for scholarships and awards on our support page.
Contact The Chemistry Department
Chemistry
Social Media
Location
Integrated Science Center, Room 1039 540 Landrum Drive Williamsburg, VA 23185
Map & DirectionsMailing Address
Chemistry Department William & Mary P.O. Box 8795 Williamsburg, VA 23187-8795
Contact Us
- Email: chemistry@wm.edu
- Phone: 757-221-2540
Courses Disclaimer
*Courses listed are examples. Course availability changes each semester.
