Learn more about the Chemistry Program and its concentrations.
The Chemistry program at Siena Heights University provides a solid grounding in all the areas of modern chemistry. Our graduates have either successfully entered the work force, or have gone on to attend graduate and professional schools. Our emphasis is on producing chemistry graduates that have a firm grasp of the basic principles of chemical science and who are ready for a wide variety of possible career paths.
Coursework is complemented by two other experiences that help to make our graduates more skilled and competent chemists.
The first is an opportunity to participate in an internship at a local chemistry company. Here, students get a chance to see first-hand what it means to be a professional chemist. In addition, students become involved in on-going research projects, and are often given their own projects to complete.
The second experience is the completion of a chemistry research project during the junior and senior years. With the guidance of the chemistry faculty, students will plan and carry out the project, and then provide a written report, followed by an oral presentation of the project and its results.
Recent senior projects have included:
- A theoretical study of compound stabilities
- Design and testing of solvent resistant polymers
- Isolation and assay of an enzyme from beef liver
- The study of the relationship between molecular structure and reactivity
- Catalysis of the hydroxamate hydrolysis reaction
- Computational study of protein-ligand binding
- Synthesis of the plant metabolite camalexin
These activities emphasize not only the abilities necessary to carry out meaningful research, but also stress the importance of having good communications skills.
Meet the Chemistry Program faculty members.
Professor of Chemistryascioly@sienaheights.edu517-264-7644 
Associate Professor of Chemistryswathen@sienaheights.edu517-264-7657 Learn about the career opportunities you can have with a degree in Chemistry.
Chemistry is known as the “Central Science” because of its important role in so many fields. Some of the careers where knowledge of chemistry is used include:
- Agriculture
- Art preservation and restoration
- Catalysis
- Education
- Information systems
- Sales and marketing
- Consulting
- Customer products
- Environmental services
- Food and flavor development
- Forensic science
- Waste management
- Materials science
- Oil and petroleum
- Paper and pulp
- Pharmaceuticals
- Polymers
- Science writing
- Textiles
Learn about internship opportunities in the Business Administration program.
About Internships
An internship is a valuable opportunity that allows a student to get work experience in a practical, professional setting. Students not only get to see what it means to be a working chemist, but they also have the chance to become involved in meaningful, on-going research.
Our chemistry majors have had internships at:
- Anderson Development Company
- Great Lakes Chemical
- Wacker Silicones