Chemistry, Biology & Health Sciences
Both chemistry and biology are key components of the health sciences program.
The American Chemical Society - accredited B.S. degree in Chemistry has a foundation in mathematics and physics, with rigorous training in five major sub-disciplines: Analytical, Biochemistry, Inorganic, Organic, and Physical Chemistry. Extensive laboratory experience, exciting coursework, and opportunities of undergraduate research help students develop the technical skills required to innovate in their field. Chemistry Program offers two Specializations: Biochemistry Specialization is designed for chemistry majors interested in the application of chemistry concepts to biological systems; Green Chemistry Specialization offers in-depth knowledge to chemistry majors who are interested in a career related to green and sustainable technologies.
The B.S. degree in Biology offers rigorously trained in Biological Sciences, including microbiology, genetics, cell and molecular biology, and ecology. Extensive laboratory experience, exciting coursework, and opportunities of undergraduate research help students develop the technical skills required to innovate in their field. Biology Program offers two Specializations: Molecular Biology Specialization is designed for the biology major interested in understanding biological system at the molecular and cellular level for health, medicine, pre-medical and biochemistry/molecular biology; Environmental Biological Sciences offers in-depth knowledge to biology majors who are interested in using biology and biotechnology to solve the environmental and sustainability challenges of the society.
The B.S. degree in Pre-Professional Health Sciences prepares students interested in a career in healthcare for admission into a variety
of graduate and professional programs including medical and dental schools, physical
and occupational therapy programs, physician assistant, chiropractic, optometry, and
radiography programs. This flexible science degree requires core courses in biology,
chemistry, physics, and math, allows multidisciplinary electives and support courses
from other areas such as psychology and humanities, and tailors the curriculum to
specific healthcare career interests of the students.
Activities and Organizations
A seminar series is in development; individuals from other departments or interested parties from the general public are welcome to attend.
We encourage the students in our department to be active in the American Chemical Society (ACS) student chapter, Student Biological Professional Society, Future Health Science Professionals, as well as join other campus organizations and activities.
The American Chemical Society (ACS)
The American Chemical Society is a self-governed individual membership organization
that consists of more than 163,000 members at all degree levels and in all fields
of chemistry.
The organization provides a broad range of opportunities for peer interaction, career
development, community service, and leadership skills regardless of professional or
scientific interest.
The purpose of ACS is to meet the needs of its members, foster scientific advancement,
and promote the public understanding of chemistry.
There are many benefits, technical and nontechnical, to joining ACS. These include
reduced fees to national and regional meetings, access to ACS journals and chemical
abstracts, continuing education opportunities, insurance programs, travel programs,
auto rental discounts, and much more.
The South Dakota Mines Student Affiliates Chapter at South Dakota Mines is actively
involved in many activities such as National Chemistry Week, chemistry magic shows,
and other social events.
Beta Phi Chapter of Alpha Chi Sigma
South Dakota Mines is home to the Beta Phi Chapter of Alpha Chi Sigma, the national's
oldest professional chemical fraternity. Membership is open to students from a variety
of academic disciplines, including metallurgical engineering, geology, geological
engineering, chemistry, chemical engineering, mining engineering and management, environmental
engineering, pre-health, and atmospheric sciences. Find out more at the Beta Phi Chapter website.
Research Labs & Centers
Catalog Links
2024-2025 Academic Catalog- Biology, BS
- Biology: Environmental Biological Sciences Specialization, BS
- Biology: Molecular Biology Specialization, BS
- Chemistry, BS
- Chemistry: Biochemistry Specialization, BS
- Chemistry: Green Chemistry Specialization, BS
- Chemical and Biological Sciences, MS
- Chemical and Biological Sciences, PhD
- Biology Minor
- Chemistry Minor
- Environmental Science Minor
Contact Us
Department of Chemistry, Biology, and Health Sciences |
For general information: |
For information about the undergraduate programs: |
For information about graduate programs: |
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology |
Amber Seidel Zhengtao Zhu
|
Chemistry: Biology / Pre-Professional Health Sciences: |
Chemical and Biological Sciences MS/PhD: Rajesh K. Sani |