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Chemistry and Biochemistry

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers many paths to success, offering several degree options for undergraduate and graduate students. The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers Bachelor of Science degrees in chemistry, biochemistry and chemistry education for undergraduate students. For graduate students, the department offers a Master of Science degree in chemistry (M.S.), Master of Science degree and Doctor of Philosophy degree in chemistry with a chemical education specialization, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in chemistry (Ph.D.) or biochemistry (Ph.D.).

Our Programs

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers B.S., M.S. and Ph.D. degrees certified by the American Chemical Society (ACS) and the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB). Each major sets students up for successful admission into various health professional programs, such as medical, dental, veterinary or chiropractic schools. They provide training for students planning to attend graduate school or work in the chemical or biochemical industries. Students in both chemistry and biochemistry majors have the option of developing a specialization in secondary (high school) teaching, and students pursuing the chemistry major have the option of developing an emphasis in environmental chemistry or materials science.

The graduate programs in the department lead to the M.S. or Ph.D. degrees in chemistry or a Ph.D. degree in biochemistry. Research programs exist in analytical, biochemistry, chemical education, environmental, organic and physical chemistry. All students admitted to the graduate program have the opportunity to receive a full assistantship to support them during their studies.

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Chemistry and Biochemistry News

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SDSU faculty recognized for excellence

The annual South Dakota State University Celebration of Faculty Excellence recognized 30 faculty members, researchers and scientists Tuesday. The event honors faculty members in the university's colleges for outstanding research, teaching and service.
Sulfur mustard

SDSU researchers reveal possible treatment for sulfur mustard in new study

Since 1917, sulfur mustard has been used repeatedly in combat—with no known antidote available for treatment. Now, a new study from two South Dakota State University researchers has revealed an effective approach to treating sulfur mustard poisoning.

Breakthrough study reveals insights into how cancer cells evade treatment

At South Dakota State University, Rachel Willand-Charnley, assistant professor in the Department Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, leads an interdisciplinary research lab—the RAWC Lab—whose work revolves around improving cancer treatments. Recently, their work has placed greater emphasis on gaining a better understanding of how cancer utilizes sugar residues and their associated genes to evade the immune system and participate in multidrug resistance.