The Department of Chemistry was established in 1958. The MS and Ph.D. programs in chemistry were established in 1971 and 1976, respectively. The goal of both programs is to provide each graduate with the intellectual background, laboratory skills, and research experience necessary to ensure success in his or her future scientific endeavors. Hence, faculty members are engaged in research projects, encompassing all of the major disciplines of chemistry with special emphasis on material chemistry and biochemistry. Meanwhile, students are encouraged to participate in any of the many research programs. Therefore, many graduates hold competitive positions at universities, private industry, and government laboratories across the nation and around the world.