Bachelor of Arts in Chemical Physics
Program Overview & Goals
The Chemical Physics major at Hendrix College provides students with an interdisciplinary foundation that integrates chemistry, physics, and mathematics to explore the fundamental principles governing matter and energy. Through an emphasis on analytical reasoning, quantitative problem-solving, and experimental investigation, students develop the skills necessary to engage with contemporary scientific questions across a wide range of fields.
Via Hendrix
Whether your goals include attending graduate or professional school, working in pharmaceutical or chemical industries, or conducting research in environmental or materials science, you can get there via Hendrix.
During your time at Hendrix, we will help you create a clear pathway between where you are now and where you want to go.
With a four-year approach centered on experiential learning, mentorship, and professional development, Hendrix helps students connect their passions with meaningful opportunities. Every course, collaboration, and hands-on experience is designed to help you develop the knowledge, confidence, and adaptability needed for life after college.
Careers & Outcomes
A Hendrix Chemical Physics education is a gateway to limitless career paths, providing the analytical, research, laboratory, and problem-solving skills that employers want and ensuring you can contribute on day one.
Salary Projections
The median salary for Chemical Engineers is $121,860 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Top Industries
- Pharmaceuticals
- Aerospace
- Energy
- Materials Science
- Technology & Engineering
Career Options
The Hendrix chemical physics major is versatile. Hendrix chemical physics alumni work in a variety of interesting, fulfilling careers, including:
- Research Scientist
- Materials Engineer
- Pharmaceutical Chemist
- Laboratory Analyst
- Environmental Scientist
Co-op Opportunities
Experience separates good job candidates from great ones. At Hendrix, professional work experiences are guaranteed through our robust co-op program. Through this required component of the chemical physics major, students can work at places including:
- Research Institutions
- Pharmaceutical Companies
- Government Science Agencies
- Engineering and Manufacturing Firms
Roadmap to the Bachelor of Arts in Chemical Physics
Every Chemical Physics major takes classes in general chemistry, physics, calculus, and advanced laboratory science. Through experiential learning opportunities, you also develop analytical thinking, experimental problem-solving, and the ability to apply physical principles to complex scientific questions.
Year One
Our First-Year Experience course gives you the freedom to discover what you care about most and find a path to get there. Your first year will include foundational courses in physics and math laying a strong foundation for future advanced coursework.
Year Two
In your second year, you will have a stronger vision of what your academic experience and career planning look like. Your integrated advising team of faculty, career counselors, and mentors will ensure that the things you study align with your future goals while still providing room to explore.
Year Three
Your third year includes a required full-time co-op. For one semester, you earn credit while applying knowledge from your coursework in a professional setting.
Year Four
Your last year is not the finish line. It is where everything starts. In the Senior Year Experience course, you will assemble and reflect on the body of work and experiences you have achieved in your time at Hendrix. You will be ready to present who you have become and the skills you have developed confidently.
Meet the Faculty
Every member of our full-time faculty in the Chemical Physics program holds a Ph.D., demonstrating their expertise and close connection to the current pulse of their respective fields of study. Just as importantly, they are dedicated to you. They work closely with you as both teachers and mentors, supporting you every step of the way to your dream career.
Ann Wright
Professor of Physics
Courtney Hatch
Nancy Craig and Wood Odyssey Professor of Chemistry
David Hales
Professor of Chemistry
Related Programs
At Hendrix, you can study chemistry, physics, and mathematics, or even build your own major that integrates these disciplines into a personalized path in scientific discovery and innovation.
Your Next Steps Via Hendrix
Discover how chemistry and physics combine to unlock scientific innovation. Learn how much value the Chemical Physics major from Hendrix College can deliver for you as you build the analytical and experimental skills needed for advanced study and impactful careers.