The IC is one of six degree-granting units of the UP College of Science and is designated by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) as a center of excellence in chemistry. The IC started as the Department of Chemistry in 1910 and was eventually reorganized as an Institute in 1987. Today it is recognized as a leading institution of learning and research in chemistry in the country. With the completion of two new buildings within the Science Complex, the IC continues its commitment to education, research, and extension services and in producing the finest graduates in chemistry.