Chemical & Biological Science & Engineering

Chemical & Biological Science & Engineering

im Two cadets perform a dissection A cadet explains a research project to two people.
Two cadets work on a project. A cadet wears safety goggles for a class project.

About the Department

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.

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A cadet in a lab coat writes on a white board.
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Majors

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. 

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Minors

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. 

A cadet participates in a class project.
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A cadet holds a a chemical sample.
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Research

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.

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Internships

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.

A female cadet in a white coat looks through a microscope.
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A cadet explains his Projects Day Research Symposium presentation.
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Events & Activities

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Clubs & Programs

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.

A cadet works on a piece of equipment.
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Contact Us

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

Prospective Faculty & Staff

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.