Department of Chemistry & Physics

Chemistry & Physics, housed in the state-of-the-art Oxendine Science Building, offers BS degrees in Chemistry and Applied Physics, along with a dual-degree (3+2) program with NC State. This pathway allows students to earn a BS in Applied Physics from UNCP and a BS in Engineering from NCSU.

Our faculty are advanced-degree professionals committed to delivering a high-quality undergraduate experience. Graduates go on to succeed in graduate and professional programs or secure positions with government agencies and private industry.

Chemistry students in organic chemistry lab

Degrees

Explore the fascinating world of chemical science with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry.

Solve real-world problems using physics, learn both physics theory and hands-on techniques and gain skills needed for jobs in research, technology with our Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics.

Biotech Facility

The Biotechnology Research and Training Center (BRTC) offers hands-on research and training opportunities in biotechnology, driving economic growth in southeast North Carolina. Through collaborations with local businesses and the government, you can gain valuable experience and access to high-paying careers.

Participation in faculty supervised research is considered by many to be one of the most valuable learning experiences available to undergraduate students, particularly those in the sciences. Undergraduate students have the unique opportunity to participate in hands-on, faculty-led research including dynamic, interdisciplinary work ongoing in our labs.

Research in Chemistry

CHM 1990 "Introduction to Research in Chemistry" - Intended for a student's first research experience, this course involves close faculty supervision and guidance on literature and laboratory work directed toward a common research objective.

CHM 3990 "Research in Chemistry" - A course providing academic credit and valuable, resume-building experience through participation in faculty supervised experimental research.

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Pembroke Undergraduate Research and Creativity Center (PURC)

A campus unit sponsoring programs and activities in support of both on- and off-campus research and creativity opportunities for UNCP undergraduates.

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Faculty Research Interests

Active research areas overseen by faculty mentors designed primarily to inform and inspire undergraduate students, capturing the breadth of scientific inquiry happening on campus — from neuroscience to laser physics, analytical chemistry to green materials.

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Chemistry & Physics Club

The Chemistry & Physics Club is a student affiliate of the American Chemical Society.

In the spring 2025 semester, the Chemistry & Physics Club received two awards:

Dr. Lisa Schaeffer Legacy Award. The Dr. Lisa Schaeffer Legacy Award is presented to a recurring program or event that will continue to make a lasting contribution for future Braves and that embodies the mission and purpose of Campus Engagement & Leadership and the university, encouraging students, faculty, staff and alumni to be responsibly connected to the UNCP community. The Chemistry & Physics Club received this award for the Annual Toys for Tots event.

The Chancellor's Cup Award: The Chancellor’s Cup Award is awarded annually to one group whose activities and events are consistent with their group's mission and/or purpose, the mission of CEL and the overall mission of UNCP. The award recipient will be a group that has gone above and beyond to demonstrate their ability to embrace difference, adapt to change, think critically and communicate effectively both internally and externally to their group. For this award, the Chemistry & Physics Club will have a nameplate placed on the Chancellor's Cup on the Student Center's second floor.

Chemistry & Physics Club

Gamma Sigma Epsilon

Gamma Sigma Epsilon (GSE) was founded at Davidson College in 1919. GSE aims "to unite those with a high scholastic grade in Chemistry, in Class A colleges in order to foster a more comprehensive and cooperative study of that great branch of Science and its immediately allied studies." The Alpha-Zeta chapter of Gamma Sigma Epsilon at UNC Pembroke was established in 2004.

GSE logo

Gamma Sigma Epsilon

American Chemical Society

The American Chemical Society (ACS) is a leading scientific organization dedicated to advancing chemistry through research, education and innovation. With over 152,000 members worldwide, ACS provides valuable resources, professional development and networking opportunities for students and professionals in the chemical sciences. Learn more about how ACS supports the next generation of chemists.