Why study chemistry?
We’re the central science! Chemists have the background to go into a variety of fields to help solve some of the biggest problems we face today.
Chemistry enriches the quality of our lives in numerous ways by providing new solutions to problems in health, material science, and energy usage and storage. Students who study chemistry at VCU get to embark on a path of scientific discovery at the most fundamental of levels.
Research Areas
As an R1 University, we provide unique opportunities for advanced study in the traditional areas of chemistry as well as in interdisciplinary topics such as sustainability and energy, chemical biology and biochemistry, nanoscience and nanomaterials, and computational and machine learning.
The Department of Chemistry has excellent resources for research that includes a fully equipped instrument facility, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Center and access to university core centers that includes the Nanoscience Core Characterization Center.
News
March 27, 2026
Class of 2026: William Thomas explores biology, medicine and his own disease
Sickle cell disease interrupted his freshman year, but the experience inspired him to join a VCU lab focused on the condition.
March 9, 2026
Meet ‘The Doctors Cecil’ – 1 family, 2 generations, 4 VCU doctoral degrees
40 years ago, Todd and Mary Cecil came to VCU, and kids Thomas and Colleen have made it a family affair.
March 3, 2026
At-home calcium testing device could have wide-ranging impact in health care
The invention from VCU chemistry professor Xuewei Wang is being evaluated for the marketplace, and the applications could extend to multiple biomarkers.
Chemistry Spotlight
Meet Jasmine
Jasmine Witt's curiosity about how the world works on a molecular and cellular level led her to pursue a degree in chemistry. Read more about Jasmine's favorite classes, professors and her leadership role in the American Chemical Society.
Get on the fast track to a master's degree
Choose from one of two programs to earn your M.S. in a minimum of five years by completing approved graduate courses during the senior year of your undergraduate program.
Study in our new STEM building
Our brand new, 169,000-square-foot building is dedicated to all things STEM, including chemistry. Students will have the opportunity to learn in six general chemistry laboratories equipped with snorkel hoods for each student.