Chemistry & Biochemistry at Houghton

Key Strengths of Chemistry at Houghton

History of Heart: Research to choose the best materials for the implantable cardiac-pacemaker’s electrodes and battery was done in the Chemistry Department at Houghton. 600,000 lives a year are saved by this invention of Dr. Wilson Greatbatch and subsequent research by Dr. Bernard Piersma and Dr. Larry Christensen.
Scholarship and Stewardship: Academic challenge and environmental responsibility meet in the Chemistry Dept. in which Dr. Larry Christensen pioneered microscale organic chemistry for the undergraduate organic laboratory. Service-learning, such as testing children’s toys for lead, serves both children (in safety) and students (in learning the chemistry of the element, lead).
Nutrition and Biochemistry: Nutrition is taught for any interested student in the college, and Biochemistry is offered at an advanced level for those wanting to learn more of the molecular science of life.
Research Opportunities: Students can do research both at Houghton and at programs of “Research Experiences for Undergraduates” at other institutions. Houghton has a Summer Research Institute in which students are paid stipends to do focused research under professors.
Ties to Academe and Industry: With these connections, students can enrich their educational experiences in chemistry by learning outside of, as well as inside of, Houghton College.
Track Record of Success: Our alumni have consistently been admitted to top medical and graduate schools, and they have emerged to practice the passion for their disciplines and the compassion for others that are the signature of Christian faith in action.

Why study Chemistry or Biochemistry? Because you learn to think—with your whole mind! You learn to exercise the analytical part of your brain in taking things apart, and you learn to exercise the synthetic part of your brain in putting things together (and you learn to understand all of these reactions at the practical level of their electrons). When you have a degree in chemistry, you will be qualified to choose from among a variety of satisfying occupations.

Chemistry at Houghton

Why study Chemistry or Biochemistry at Houghton College? Because, in this Christian context, as you interact with professors and peers, your faith will be strengthened, even as your knowledge will increase, not just in your chosen vocation, but also in many other mind-stretching fields -- the benefits of a liberal arts education.

At Houghton College, experienced faculty members (all active scholars with Ph.D. degrees) help students to define and answer questions about our world, at the level of contemporary chemistry. In small-size classes and laboratories, students are encouraged to work with professors and with each other to understand the field of chemistry.

Special Topics courses allow students to choose a focus among such subjects as medicinal chemistry, electrochemistry, environmental chemistry, or nutritional chemistry. Students are further encouraged to pursue hands-on research and to present that research to outside audiences. They are also asked to apply thinking skills to real-world problems and, from a Christian perspective, to examine ethical issues of science. Graduates with Houghton degrees in chemistry have gone on to pursue careers in medicine, industry, education, and missions, among others.

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Houghton is a Christian Learning Community that emphasizes preparation of students to become future leaders. The Houghton Experience is centered on strong academic programs, and a faith community/fellowship that helps develop conviction, compassion and character. Study abroad programs and global partnerships reflect our commitment to out-of-the-classroom learning, experience and service. Call us today to learn more.