The Department of Chemical & Biological Science & Engineering (CBSE) oversees the chemistry, chemical engineering, and biology majors, as well as the bioengineering minor, and conducts cutting-edge research in collaboration with civilian academic and Department of Defense organizations.
Its mission is to educate cadets with a firm academic foundation so that each graduate is a commissioned leader of character who can leverage their understanding of science to implement solutions using appropriate problem-solving skills and to inspire cadets to a career in the United States Army and a lifetime of personal growth and service to the nation.
Our faculty is a blend of excellence between civilian and military members who bring an array of experiences and expertise into the laboratory and classroom. Bartlett Hall Science Center offers world-class laboratories and instrumentation to enable our cadets, faculty, and collaborators to tackle the challenges of the current and future warfighter.
CBSE offers several majors for cadets interested in chemistry and biology. Majors determine course requirements and academic timelines as well as the type of career or branch that a cadet may choose to pursue after USMA graduation.
The minor area of study offered by CBSE allows cadets to explore other areas of interest while still pursuing their academic major. This option enables cadets to select a minor that either complements their major or provides an additional potential career path after graduation.
CBSE cadets, faculty, and staff participate in the pursuit of knowledge through USMA’s variety of outstanding research-oriented centers, institutes, and programs. Cadets may participate in capstone projects, providing hands-on experience in designing solutions to real-world challenges.
In the Photonics Research Center, research is conducted across multiple departments.
CBSE offers a variety of enrichment internship programs for cadets. Known throughout the academy as Academic Individual Advanced Development (AIAD), they provide cadets with an opportunity to observe and implement concepts from their education in chemistry, chemical engineering, and biology over several weeks during a summer internship.
Opportunities for professional and personal growth extend past the classroom. Eligible cadets may choose to join international or national honor societies, profession-oriented organizations, or activities that appeal to personal interests.
The National Chemistry Honor Society (Gamma Sigma Epsilon) is by invitation only.
COL James is head of the Department of Chemical & Biological Science & Engineering and teaches courses in Chemical Engineering and General Chemistry.
UPS/ FEDEX Mailing address:
United States Military Academy
Official Mail and Distribution Center
ATTN: MADN-CBSE
646 Swift Road
West Point, NY 10996-1905
Administrative Officer: Mr. Walt Rittger
Phone: (845) 938-3767
Want to learn more about becoming an academic instructor in the Department of Chemical & Biological Science & Engineering?
Email us to learn more about our department.
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