Introduction

Students in Delaware State’s Chemistry Education program often have jobs waiting for them upon graduation. They benefit not only from DSU’s reputation for excellence in teacher education, but also from the national shortage of middle- and high-school science teachers. Our Chemistry Education students are heavily recruited by school districts throughout Delaware, as well as in neighboring states.

The program meets all standards of the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. It features extensive hands-on laboratory experience, along with a full semester of student teaching experience in a real-world classroom. Graduates enter the work force with a teaching license, mastery of the subject matter, and the ability to make chemistry accessible, exciting, and relevant to 21st-century students.

Professional Preparation

The Chemistry Education program is recognized by the National Science Teachers’ Association (NSTA), as well as by NCATE. All graduates become licensed teachers in the state of Delaware, with professional teaching skills in

• core subjects such as organic chemistry, biochemistry, instrumental analysis, and physics
• cutting-edge areas such as genetics and renewable energy
• the use of advanced technology in the classroom
• lesson planning
• assessment
• multicultural classrooms

Faculty

Members of the Delaware State chemistry faculty are highly committed to undergraduate education. Because the department is small and intimate, instructors can provide individual attention to each student, acting as mentors and advisors as well as classroom educators. They help students discover their academic strengths and establish solid foundations for graduate school and career development.

Research and Experience

The Delaware State chemistry department encourages undergraduates to get involved in research. The university hosts nine chemistry research labs and three multipurpose labs, all equipped with high-end instrumentation and advanced computer technology. Undergraduates often play significant roles in the research process. Delaware State’s research emphases include hydrogen fuel cells, forensic chemistry, environmental chemistry, and pharmaceuticals.

The department maintains a very active student chapter of the American Chemical Society (ACS). The chapter provides opportunities for students to present research findings, interact with professional chemists and researchers, take field trips to chemistry-related companies, and more.