The Chemistry & Biochemistry Department at Fort Lewis College offers hands-on, research-driven education for students pursuing careers in chemistry, biochemistry, medicine, biotechnology, environmental science, engineering, and education. With small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, you’ll develop the lab skills and scientific knowledge that top graduate programs and employers are looking for.
Top-ranked in Colorado and nationally accredited
Recognized as a Program of Excellence by the Colorado Commission on Higher Education, our department is considered one of the best in the state. Fort Lewis College also ranks among the top 10 colleges in the NSF Mountain Region for graduates who go on to earn PhDs in chemistry—proof that our programs open doors. With an ACS-certified Chemistry degree and one of only two ASBMB-accredited Biochemistry degrees in Colorado, our students graduate with a competitive edge for internships, jobs, and graduate school.
Why study Chemistry or Biochemistry at FLC?
Our students receive individualized instruction and mentoring from award-winning faculty. With an open-door policy and a commitment to student success, we support you in reaching your goals—whether that’s graduate school, medical school, or a science-focused career. Our graduates are well-prepared for what comes next. Many enter medical, graduate, or professional schools, while others launch directly into rewarding careers in the sciences.
Research opportunities from day one
All students gain hands-on experience with advanced lab equipment—over $1 million in scientific instrumentation, more accessible to undergraduates than at many large universities. Every student completes faculty-mentored research, and many go on to pursue paid summer research through the NSF's Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program.