Wonder. Explore. Discover. Repeat.
Chemistry is at the heart of real-world solutions, from medical breakthroughs to climate innovations. At Fort Lewis College, our Chemistry program is recognized as a Program of Excellence by the Colorado Commission on Higher Education and ranks in the top 20% nationally for graduates who go on to earn Ph.D.s in chemistry (NSF Mountain Region).
You’ll work side by side with expert faculty, dive into collaborative research, and use over $1 million in advanced scientific instrumentation. Follow the ACS-certified track to graduate with credentials that set you apart—whether you’re heading to graduate school or launching your career in science.
By collaborating with organizations like the Powerhouse Science Center to teach children about the principles of chemistry, you’ll also learn how to translate complex scientific concepts into everyday language—a vital skill in any science career.
ACS-Certified TrackEnhance your degree with ACS certification to demonstrate rigorous training in laboratory practices and chemical theory.
Hands-on laboratory experienceAll classes are taught by faculty (no graduate student instructors), meaning you get direct mentorship from professors who conduct dynamic demonstrations and use real-world problem solving in every course.
Undergraduate ResearchWork alongside faculty on graduate-level research, publish your findings, and present at conferences such as the American Chemical Society Conference.
Funding & instrumentationThrough grants and donations, our department regularly acquires new analysis instruments. In 2020 alone, we gained $831,000 worth of instrumentation for student use.
Learn more about Chemistry Major requirements
A minor in Chemistry complements a variety of majors, from Biology and Health Sciences to Environmental Studies and Engineering. Explore fundamental chemical principles and gain essential lab skills to broaden your career and research opportunities.
Learn more about the Chemistry Minor requirements
"My favorite element of the FLC Chemistry program is the hands-on experience that students gain in the laboratory. This gives FLC students a unique advantage over other graduates when starting graduate programs or going into industry."
The road ahead
You’ll graduate ready to lead in science and research, with the technical expertise and problem-solving skills to make real-world impact. Whether you’re aiming for industry, grad school, or healthcare, your Chemistry degree opens doors.
FLC alumni work at places like Los Alamos National Lab, Agilent, Intel, and the CDC—and many earn fully funded graduate placements at top universities nationwide.