Department of Chemistry, Physics, and Atmospheric Sciences
College of Science, Engineering, and Technology

Our Mission

We aim to equip graduates for global competition through rigorous, high-quality programs in Chemistry, Physics, Meteorology, and Earth System Science. These programs are designed to foster a lifelong passion for learning and leadership, encouraging graduates to make significant professional and scholarly contributions within the international scientific community.

Message From The Chair

Welcome to the JSU Department of Chemistry, Physics, and Atmospheric Sciences! This is an exciting time to pursue majors in Chemistry, Physics, Meteorology, or Earth Systems Science at J.S.U. We provide a comprehensive array of six degree programs, including a B.S. in Chemistry, Physics, Meteorology, and Earth System Science, as well as M.S. and Ph.D. programs in Chemistry. Within our department, we take pride in being a leading source nationwide for African American graduates with B.S. degrees in Meteorology and Earth Systems Science. Remarkably, one in every four African American bachelor’s degree holders in meteorology has graduated from our atmospheric sciences program. Our meteorology alumni hold prominent positions on television with networks such as The Weather Channel, WLBT, and WJTV.

Our Physics B.S. program features a robust curriculum with concentrations in Physics, Medical Physics, and Physical Science Education. Many of our majors pursue advanced studies and have earned degrees from prestigious US universities.

We are actively seeking bright, talented, and committed students who aspire to become tomorrow’s researchers, science educators, corporate leaders, high-tech innovators, and engineers. Our faculty members are experts in diverse fields including Nanotechnology, Materials Science, Optics and Photonics, Computational Physical Sciences, Meteorological Observations, Modeling and Forecasting, Earth and Space Science, and Science Education.

Since 1973, our Chemistry B.S. degree program has been certified by the American Chemical Society and offers a range of career paths, including biomedical science, environmental science, forensic science, pre-medicine, pre-dentistry, pre-pharmacy, and pre-engineering. Graduates of our programs are well-prepared for both graduate and professional schools, as well as careers in industry, academia, and government. In fact, 72% of our B.S./ M.S. graduates pursue advanced degrees within one year of graduation.

We are dedicated to building the nation’s premier Ph.D. program, with a focus on creating a supportive environment for underrepresented minorities. Our program emphasizes a challenging curriculum, supportive mentorship, and training in chemistry teaching, research, publication, and proposal writing, preparing our doctoral graduates for successful careers as university professors. Our faculty members are prolific researchers, averaging 7 publications per faculty member per year, and our department consistently ranks among the top chemistry departments in the country.

Research thrives within our department, covering a wide range of areas. Students engage in hands-on research projects in well-equipped laboratories and frequently present their findings at national conferences. We offer a variety of training programs that provide scholarships, fellowships, and internships for our students. Join us as we shape the future of science and innovation!