Widener University

What you'll study

The programme provides a strong core in general, organic and physical chemistry alongside targeted study in optics and quantum chemistry. Core coursework typically includes general chemistry with laboratory, organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, and physical chemistry, supported by mathematics (calculus and linear algebra) and physics for chemists.

Specialist and elective modules that students can expect to take when focusing on optics and quantum chemistry include:

• Quantum Chemistry / Quantum Mechanics for Chemists — foundations of wavefunctions, operators and molecular orbital theory.
• Spectroscopy and Photonics — electronic, vibrational and rotational spectroscopy; laser fundamentals; light–matter interaction.
• Optical Materials and Solid State Chemistry — optical properties of materials, band theory, and materials for photonic applications.
• Computational Chemistry and Modelling — quantum chemical calculations, density functional theory and simulation of spectroscopic properties.
• Advanced Laboratory Techniques — hands-on training with lasers, spectrometers (UV‑Vis, IR, fluorescence), and modern analytical instrumentation.
• Senior Research Project or Capstone — an independent, faculty-mentored research project which often involves experimental optics, spectroscopy or computational studies.

Throughout the degree students gain practical skills in experimental design, data analysis, scientific communication and safe laboratory practice. Widener emphasises small class sizes and access to laboratory facilities, and students frequently work alongside faculty on publishable research.

Entry requirements

Admissions typically look for completion of secondary education with a strong background in mathematics and the physical sciences. Recommended preparation includes high school chemistry, physics and at least one year of algebra or pre-calculus; calculus is preferred for students intending to specialise in physical and quantum topics. Competitive applicants demonstrate strong grades, teacher recommendations and a personal statement outlining interest in chemistry and optics.

Prospective students who have taken AP, IB or other advanced courses in chemistry, physics or mathematics may receive credit or place out of introductory courses. International applicants will need to meet English language proficiency requirements. Applicants transferring from other institutions should provide college transcripts and may be able to transfer relevant coursework, subject to departmental review.

Career prospects

Graduates with a chemistry degree emphasising optics and quantum chemistry are well placed for a range of careers in industry, research and education. Common pathways include:

• Research scientist or laboratory chemist in photonics, materials science, chemical instrumentation, or analytical laboratories.
• Optical or photonics engineer roles in companies developing lasers, sensors, optical communications or imaging systems (often with additional engineering or applied physics training).
• Computational chemist or modelling specialist in academia, industry or national laboratories working on simulations of molecular and material properties.
• Technical roles in spectroscopy, quality control, and instrumental analysis across pharmaceuticals, environmental monitoring and manufacturing.
• Further study at the graduate level (MS/PhD) in chemistry, physical chemistry, materials science or optical engineering, or professional careers such as patent law or science policy with suitable additional qualifications.

Widener’s strong emphasis on internships and cooperative education helps students gain practical workplace experience and industry contacts that support employment or graduate school placement after graduation.

Why study at Widener University

Widener offers a chemistry programme with personalised attention from faculty in small classes and opportunities to join active research projects. The university’s emphasis on experiential learning — including internships, co‑op placements and a senior research capstone — makes it possible to apply optics and quantum chemistry concepts in real-world settings.

Students benefit from access to modern laboratory instrumentation used in spectroscopy and photonics, interdisciplinary collaboration across physics, engineering and materials science, and career support services that cultivate industry connections. The programme is designed to prepare graduates for both immediate employment in technical roles and for advanced study in specialised fields.