Chemistry
Major
The objective of the undergraduate option in chemistry is to produce graduates articulate in the fundamental concepts of the molecular sciences through a combination of coursework and laboratory experiences. The chemistry program at Caltech provides depth in the traditional areas of chemistry—organic and inorganic chemistry, chemical physics, theoretical chemistry, chemical biology, and biochemistry. Breadth in the program is found within the advanced coursework offerings and the specialized interests of the faculty. Chemical research at Caltech is highly interdisciplinary, reflecting the increasing importance of molecular understanding to many fields of science. Major initiatives are fostering broad collaborations in energy and environment, molecular medicine, and nanomaterials. Students can also pursue Chemistry as a minor at Caltech.
Minor
The chemistry minor is intended to supplement one of Caltech's undergraduate degrees. It is designed for students who wish to broaden their studies beyond their major to include chemistry. Students completing the chemistry minor requirements will have the phrase "minor in chemistry" added to their transcripts.
I'm in chemistry because I'm what's called a physical chemist: the balance between a chemist and a physicist...The Caltech chemistry department has a rich legacy of building instrumentation. They don't care how quickly you produce science; they just want you to make good science. And when you do instrumentation building, you really need that support because it takes me more than three years to build a new scientific instrument.