The Department of Chemistry

elcome to the Department of Chemistry

Established in 1885, the University of Akron Department of Chemistry has a long tradition of excellence in research and teaching.  At the turn of the century, when other scientists had just begun to find uses for the gummy by-product of certain chemical reactions, UA chemistry professor Charles M. Knight was already teaching the world's first college course in rubber chemistry.

The Department of Chemistry offers ACS-approved bachelor’s degrees with options for emphasis in physical chemistry, polymer chemistry, and biochemistry. Graduate degrees at the PhD and MS level are offered in the areas of organic, inorganic, physical, analytical, and biological chemistry. Faculty research is recognized internationally and is funded by multiple grants from agencies like the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health.