Department of Chemistry

Approved Chemistry Program Badge by the American Chemical Society (ACS) Are you curious about the science behind everyday life—from the medicines we take to the materials we use? At UW–Whitewater, the Chemistry Department invites you to turn that curiosity into a career. Our program blends rigorous academics with hands-on experiences, preparing students to solve real-world problems through the lens of chemistry.

From your first year, you’ll be immersed in lab-based learning, collaborative projects, and faculty-mentored research. Whether you're analyzing proteins, exploring green chemistry, or working with nanomaterials, you’ll gain practical skills using modern instrumentation, contribute to cutting-edge projects, and present your findings at conferences across the country. Small class sizes and personalized advising ensure you’re supported every step of the way.

We offer a variety of degree tracks—including ACS-certified options—to match your interests and career goals. Students engage in internships, study abroad, and leadership roles in Chem Club, while also co-authoring publications and building strong communication and professional skills. You’ll graduate ready for careers in healthcare, industry, education, or advanced study.

At UW–Whitewater, chemistry isn’t just a major—it’s a launchpad for discovery, innovation, and impact. Join a community where your passion for science can thrive.

Meet our faculty View our academic programs

Contact us

Jessica Bonjour
Department Chair & Professor
Phone: 262-472-1088
Location: Upham Hall 220A

Julia Rowehl
Department Assistant
Phone: 262-472-1070
Location: Upham Hall 220

UW-Whitewater offers students a wide variety of scholarships, both through the university, individual colleges, and departments. The Department of Chemistry has a number of scholarships and awards geared specifically toward our students, including:

John W. Brooks
Paul Wenaas (Junior)
AA Upham Science Scholarship
Y W Fok Scholarship
Goldwater Scholarship

More information about these and other scholarships is available through the scholarship portal.

Explore scholarships

The Department of Chemistry supports a number of student clubs and organizations, including Chemistry Club and our Double Helix Learning Community.

Explore student organizations

Internships are a powerful way to apply your classroom knowledge, gain hands-on experience, and build a professional network. The Chemistry Department at UW–Whitewater partners with top companies offering exciting internship opportunities in various chemistry fields. Here's a look at some of the companies you could intern with:

AbbVie
Location: Lake County, IL (approx. 1.5 hours from Whitewater)
Industry: Biopharmaceuticals
Chemistry Focus: Pharmaceutical development, chemical engineering, analytical chemistry

Epic Resins
Location: Palmyra, WI (14 minutes from Whitewater)
Industry: Specialty Chemicals
Chemistry Focus: Epoxy and polyurethane resin formulation

SC Johnson
Location: Racine, WI (1 hour from Whitewater)
Industry: Consumer Goods
Chemistry Focus: Product development, formulation chemistry, R&D

MilliporeSigma
Location: Milwaukee, WI & Sheboygan Falls, WI
Industry: Life Sciences
Chemistry Focus: Analytical chemistry, biochemistry, chemical manufacturing

Hydrite Chemical Co.
Location: Brookfield, WI (1 hour from Whitewater)
Industry: Chemical Manufacturing
Chemistry Focus: Quality control, technical services, regulatory affairs

Evonik Industries
Location: Milton, WI (15 minutes from Whitewater)
Industry: Specialty Chemicals
Chemistry Focus: Polymer chemistry, coatings, process engineering

Fort Atkinson HealthCare
Location: Fort Atkinson, WI (20 minutes from Whitewater)
Industry: Healthcare
Chemistry Focus: Clinical chemistry, lab technology

U S Chemical
Location: Watertown, WI (30 minutes from Whitewater)
Industry: Cleaning and Sanitation Chemicals
Chemistry Focus: Formulation chemistry, product testing

DeVere Chemical
Location: Janesville, WI (30 minutes from Whitewater)
Industry: Industrial Cleaning Chemicals
Chemistry Focus: Formulation, manufacturing, regulatory compliance

Nestlé USA
Location: Burlington, WI or Eau Claire, WI
Industry: Food & Beverage
Chemistry Focus: Food chemistry, quality assurance, product development

Why Intern?

Apply your chemistry knowledge in real-world settings
Build your resume and professional network
Discover your career interests and strengths
Many internships lead to full-time job offers!

Ready to Get Started?
Visit your Chemistry Department advisor or talk with our Internship Coordinator, Dr. Kumpaty, to learn about the options and next steps.

Donate

Every gift, no matter the size, helps provide scholarships, workshops, and essential resources that enrich our programs and help our students shine.

If you're interested in starting a scholarship or making a pledge, please contact the UW-Whitewater Foundation, Inc at 262-472-1105 or through email at foundation@uww.edu.

Donate to the Department of Chemistry at UW-Whitewater