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Messiah University
Messiah University

Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

Welcome to the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry seeks to equip students with the knowledge and methodologies of chemistry and biochemistry so as to enable them to be informed Christian citizens as well as skilled and ethical practitioners of chemistry, biochemistry and chemical education.

As a program approved by the American Chemical Society, our department offers rigorous courses across all sub-disciplines of chemistry, as well as laboratory and research experiences necessary for preparation as a scientific or health-care professional. Our department places special emphasis on the integration of the knowledge and methods of science with Christian faith.

CHEM Graduating Class 2026

Graduating Class of 2026

Congratulations to our class of 2026! Plans are set for next year. This is what they are doing:

  • Ph.D. Programs! Virginia Commonwealth University, Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine
  • Teaching! Ephrata High School
  • Laboratory Positions! Capital Area Research, Eurofins Lancaster Labs, Biotechnique, Adhesives Research, Inc.
  • Graduate School! University of Edinburgh
  • Continuing Education! UPMC Chautauqua Medical Laboratory Science Program
  • Employment! Church World Service, Certified Pharmacy Technician

Alumni Reflections

What is one of the most important things you learned in college?

"Failure is how you grow, faith and science can coexist, and opportunities are (almost) always there if you have the courage to ask."

"I've learned to stop putting so much pressure on grades and what people think about me.  My idenitity doesn't belong to those things!"

"I learned to never give up regardless of the circumstances and situations I may have found myself in and that even if it takes longer than expected to accomplish certain things, I still did them for myself."

"I think the most important thing I learned was how to adapt in a laboratory setting.  Chemistry and science does not always work ideally and how we think it should.  Mistakes also happen because we are human.  I learned how to adapt when these situations arise and to try new steps or methods."