Chemistry & Physics Chair's message

I would like to welcome you to the WEB site for the Department of Chemistry and Physics at Virginia State University. Our department's operating premise is that we are a school of thought dedicated to the growth and development of our students. We are a small department and we take pride in the accomplishments, great and small, of our students. Our classes are small as well so you will find that there are no back rows, no places to hide, and when you miss a class we become concerned.

Should you decide that this is the right environment for you to continue your education, you will find that in the Department of Chemistry and Physics at Virginia State University we will encourage you to begin a research project as early as your confidence allows. Under the direct supervision of one of our faculty members you will have the chance to study in a program that is at the cutting edge. Furthermore, you will be encouraged to present your results at one of the regional or national meetings for the discipline you have chosen. You will learn as the faculty have learned that this opportunity is unparalleled at many other universities and you will be excited.

So I invite you to take a few minutes, examine our programs, research projects, the degrees we offer, our curricula, the faculty web pages, the photos that demonstrate that you will have fun while you work harder than you ever thought yourself capable. If you agree that we will be able to draw more from you than you could have imagined possible, then send me an email, visit the department, or fill out an on-line application - make the Department of Chemistry and Physics at VSU your educational home.

thanks,
Ralph C. Gatrone, PhD

To read the Department's 5-year plan >click here<