Our students learn how to use and operate the specialized equipment professional labs across the country use; at larger institutions, departments may be more protective of the equipment and thus limit undergraduate access to it. At Lake Forest College, we know that being familiar with your field means knowing every moving part. That’s why we allow and encourage our students to use the high-level scientific instruments that they will find in labs beyond our gates, giving them an edge after graduation.  

Our students are immersed in the study of chemistry from the beginning of their undergraduate courses. Our department's objective is to set students up for success after graduation. Whether students aim to find placement in a career directly after graduation or move on to continue their studies in medical school, law school, or various graduate programs, we support student learning by providing hands-on experience in the lab and various research opportunities. 

We offer a variety of research opportunities that bolster student success by familiarizing them with research and professional settings. Experiential learning can be completed through the Richter Scholars program, an internship, summer research, and the final thesis project. Students can also leverage alumni connections to help guide their career trajectory after graduation.