Chemistry and Biochemistry

Programs that Take You to the Next Level: Hands-On Science with World-Class Instrumentation

Delivery Method In Person

Earn Your Degree in Chemistry or Biochemistry on-campus in La Grande, Oregon at Eastern Oregon University.

Dive deep into the molecular world in a highly supportive learning environment. Whether your goal is veterinary medicine, dentistry, pharmaceutical research, or a top-tier Ph.D. program, our personalized pathways in Chemistry and Biochemistry ensure you study side-by-side with faculty experts and gain competitive, resume-building research experience.

  • State-of-the-Art Facilities: Housed in Badgley Hall, EOU’s science center, featuring an extensive collection of advanced research-grade instrumentation.
  • Nationally Recognized Chemistry Club: Join one of EOU’s active student chapter of the American Chemical Society, famous for award-winning regional outreach and funded travel to national meetings.
  • 100% Placement Success: EOU Department of Mathematics and Sciences graduates frequently transition directly into professional science careers, medical programs, or prestigious graduate schools.
Chemistry Students in Badgley Hall

A Supportive, Specialized Gateway to Scientific Excellence

  • Chemistry Pathway: Master fundamental chemical principles, analytical methods, and physical interactions. This track is ideal for students seeking careers in industrial chemistry, environmental monitoring, research laboratories, or chemistry education.
  • Biochemistry Pathway: Explore the molecular mechanics of living systems, linking biology and chemistry. This track delivers rigorous preparation for advanced biomedical research and immediate entry into health-related professions like medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy.
  • Versatile Minor Options: Complement your primary major by earning a Minor in Chemistry or a specialized Minor in Environmental Chemistry, building a unique interdisciplinary skillset.
  • Degree Awarded: Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Bachelor of Arts, Minor
  • Pathways Available: Chemistry | Biochemistry
  • Class Formats: Hands-on In-Person Lectures and Laboratory Blocks
  • Primary Location: Badgley Hall Science Center (La Grande, OR)

Core competencies

Develop hands-on proficiency operating high-level research equipment, including NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and gas chromatography.

Design, execute, and troubleshoot complex chemical and biochemical experiments using rigorous statistical and empirical methods.

Master laboratory techniques in DNA sequencing, protein chromatography, and molecular manipulation.

Gain confidence presenting complex primary research posters at regional symposiums and National ACS Meetings.

Evaluate critical molecular data, perform kinetic studies, and formulate mathematical solutions to complex scientific inquiries.

Translate high-level scientific concepts for public audiences through community outreach, youth mentoring, and active team projects.

LEARNING OPTIONS & DELIVERY MODALITIES

In-Person (La Grande)

The Immersive Mountaineer Science Experience

Spend your academic career working directly inside EOU’s state-of-the-art facilities. Perfect for traditional undergraduate students seeking physical laboratory experience, collaborative peer groups, and direct mentoring.

Highlights: • Small class sizes ensuring you get dedicated time on complex instruments. • Active campus life with the award-winning ACS Chemistry Club. • On-campus research groups working on physical and biological problems.

The Transfer Pathway

Maximize Your Prior Science Credits

Already completed your general education or introductory science coursework? EOU welcomes transfer students and provides a streamlined credit evaluation to help you graduate faster.

Highlights: • EOU accepts up to 135 transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions. • Smooth transition from Pacific Northwest community colleges.• Flexible upper-division elective options to customize your B.S. degree.

Work Side-by-Side with Active Scientist-Mentors

At Eastern Oregon University, you aren’t just a spectator in a lab. Our professors are dedicated, publishing researchers and active educators who are passionate about teaching both studio science and advanced theories.

By maintaining one-on-one relationships, our faculty provide personalized academic advising, career counseling, and high-quality undergraduate research opportunities. Our students regularly participate in summer research groups, publish work as co-authors, and develop professional skills that make them highly competitive candidates for medical and graduate school admissions.

Student Involvement

The Eastern Oregon Science Journal

Discover original, undergraduate-authored scientific research papers and lab findings published annually by EOU students.

EOU Spring Symposium Presentations

Preview scientific presentations and research posters developed by Chemistry-Biochemistry seniors as part of their final capstone requirements.

Can prepare you for…

Online MBA in Healthcare Administration

In the Healthcare Administration concentration, you can add healthcare-related business expertise to your online MBA degree program, giving you a competitive edge in medical and health services management careers.

Oregon Health Sciences University Nursing Program

Become a nurse in the scenic Grande Ronde Valley. You’ll take all classes on La Grande’s Eastern Oregon University campus.

Earn a bachelor’s degree and start working as a nurse in just three years.

Enjoy affordable tuition and explore OHSU’s wide range of scholarships, including the Oregon Rural Nurse Scholars Scholarship.