Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics

Driven by Discovery

Curious Minds. Fearless Innovators. Science Leaders.

The Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics is where curiosity sparks discovery and innovation drives results. Students work alongside faculty on research ranging from medical diagnostics to space exploration and advanced materials. Our graduates excel at NASA, Sanford Research, and Fortune 500 companies, enter top medical and graduate schools, and inspire future scientists as educators.

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Degrees Offered

Undergraduate Degrees Graduate Degrees Minors Apply Now

Chemistry (ACS-Certified)

Study core chemistry disciplines in an ACS-certified program with state-of-the-art labs in the Avera Health and Science Center.
Graduate ready for top careers or advanced study — our alumni work at Sanford Research, POET, national labs and leading medical and graduate schools.

Discover the “central science” in ACS-certified labs.

Biochemistry (ASBMB-Certified)

Explore life at the molecular level in South Dakota’s only ASBMB-certified biochemistry program, combining chemistry, biology, physics and math.
Conduct research in biomedical fields like cancer, infectious disease and genetics, preparing for medical school, graduate programs or biotech careers.

Unlock the "molecular secrets" of life.

Physics

Learn in small, hands-on classes and choose from professional/applied physics, health/medical physics or a flexible path for double majors.
Participate in cutting-edge research, from NASA space-based neutrino detectors to materials science collaborations with national partners.

Unravel "complex mysteries" in physics and cosmology.

100

Undergraduate majors

80%

Chemistry/Biochemistry Double Majors accepted to Medical School

50

Graduate Students

Whether you’re connecting with peers who share your passion, exploring new ideas, or making an impact through outreach, these organizations offer a place to learn, lead and belong.

CBP Student Clubs