Intricate combinations of 118 elements are the building blocks for everything in existence. At the center of all you see, hear, smell, taste, or touch are molecular combinations and interactions. The exploration of matter, atoms, substances, compounds, and bonds helps us better describe and explain the world we are a part of — from generating renewable energy sources and developing important pharmaceuticals to finding solutions that counter negative environmental impacts.
The Department of Chemistry has a strong, 40-year reputation of quality teaching and research. As you study and manipulate matter at the molecular level, you will learn how to use theory and experimentation to understand the physical and biological world. Small class sizes, an engaged alumni network, and deliberate faculty mentoring will provide you with the knowledge and confidence to discover and apply your passions.
Summer Research at PLNU
Learn more about how students gain hands-on STEM experience through PLNU’s summer research program
Alumna Story
Jasmine Myles
Jasmine Myles shares her experience conducting research as a former PLNU chemistry student.
Alumnus Story
Grant Abass
The compassion Grant Abass experienced at PLNU has not only grown and shaped him, but has helped him find his purpose in healing and transforming the lives of others.
Viewpoint Feature
If Walls Could Talk
In 2008, PLNU partnered with CarrierJohnson + CULTURE, a San Diego-based architecture and interior design firm, to facilitate design of what would be PLNU’s new science facility.
Alumnus Story
Ryan Weiss
Ryan Weiss graduated from PLNU in 2008 with a degree in chemistry, and then received his Ph.D. in organic chemistry from the University of California San Diego.
Alumna Story
Amber (Gillett) Heidbrink
Amber (Gillett) Heidbrink (13) is a part-time faculty member at Long Beach City College and Golden West College in the Los Angeles area, teaching students introductory chemistry and lab courses.
Graduate Success
Pre-Health Program
PLNU's robust pre-health program prepares and equips you for health professions schools in medicine, dentistry, optometry, pharmacy, public health, and veterinary medicine.
As a department, we aim to provide a space to support you and your passions — academically and personally. This means challenging and preparing you intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually. Our commitment to your whole person development and success takes shape in many ways. Faculty who are experts in their field will guide you on your way — providing the academic foundation and tools you need to make the next step, while also taking the time to get to know you as a person. In addition to our faculty and staff, our network of science alumni and professionals provide a valuable resource for mentorship and guidance.
PLNU's Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP) provides for and supports procedures, equipment, personal protective equipment, and work practices to protect personnel (and students) from the potential health and physical hazards of laboratory work with hazardous chemicals, and complies with California Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Cal/OSHA). You can read our entire Chemical Hygiene Plan here.
Department of Chemistry Programs
An education in the sciences creates unique opportunities for original research, and cultivates deep critical thinking, writing, and communication skills that will prepare you for an abundance of meaningful career opportunities. Majors in chemistry, biology-chemistry, and environmental science provide the opportunity to pursue your passions and interests.
Opportunities for Engagement
Developing a global perspective doesn't only happen inside the walls of the classroom — it happens by coming face-to-face with new opportunities, people, places, and ideas. From investigating how chemistry affects our everyday lives in the Chemistry Club to taking part in meaningful research with a diverse group of peers and faculty over the summer, the Department of Chemistry offers many opportunities for meaningful engagement.
Department News & Events
Faculty
Our faculty serve as both teachers and mentors, committed to guiding you toward a full and purposeful education. By helping you explore thought-provoking and influential ideas and engage complex and difficult questions, you'll have access to an environment devoted to the pursuit of truth. An education at PLNU is both transformative and meaningful.
Contact Us
If you would like to learn more about the Department of Chemistry or any of our majors and minors, please reach out to us!
Kerry Alcorn
Department Assistant
kalcorn@pointloma.edu
(619) 849-2469
PLNU is committed to continuous and transparent alignment of our curriculum with the highest national standards. Learn about assessment.
