Chemistry, B.S.

Chemistry

Objectives for the Program in Chemistry

The Bachelor of Science degree programs in chemistry are available for students who intend to pursue graduate studies, secondary school teaching, or a professional career in the chemical, pharmaceutical, biotechnology or related industry. The programs provide a strong background in the modern areas of chemistry including biochemistry with emphasis on hands-on laboratory work. They also provide the opportunity for exceptionally talented students to conduct independent research under the guidance of the faculty. The degree programs will also prepare students for further education in health sciences, such as medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, optometry and other health professions provided they take other pre-requisite courses.

Required Core Courses in Chemistry

• CHEM 1300 - General Chemistry I 4 cr.
• CHEM 1400 - General Chemistry II 4 cr.
• CHEM 2000 - Organic Chemistry I 4 cr.
• CHEM 2100 - Organic Chemistry II 4 cr.
• CHEM 2400 - General Analytical Chemistry 4 cr.
• CHEM 3200 - Physical Chemistry I 4 cr.
• CHEM 3600 - Descriptive Inorganic Chemistry 3 cr.
• CHEM 3030 - Foundations of Biochemistry 3 cr. *
• CHEM 4750 - Chemistry Seminar 3 cr.

• *BIOL 3450  (Biochemistry) may be substituted for CHEM 3030 , Foundations of Biochemistry

Required Courses in Related Disciplines

• PHYS 2300 - General Physics I 4 cr. *
• PHYS 2400 - General Physics II 4 cr. *
• MATH 1300 - Precalculus 3 cr.
• MATH 2300 - Calculus I 4 cr.
• MATH 2400 - Calculus II 4 cr.
• BIOL 1800 - General Biology I 4 cr.

• *Students with strong aptitude for calculus are encouraged to take PHYS 2600-2700 sequence instead of General Physics I-II.

Chemistry Electives

Students must choose two electives from any 3000 or higher level course in chemistry (CHEM).  The exact number of credits will depend on whether a student chooses an elective with a lab component (4 cr.) or without a lab (3 cr.)

Additional Information about the Program of Study

• Up to 3 credits of Internship (CHEM 4940), Independent Study (CHEM 4900) or Directed Study (CHEM 4975) can be used to fulfill the elective requirement.
• Total number of credit hours required in the major and related areas - 63 - 65 cr.
• Liberal Arts and Sciences coursework - 30 cr. (minimum)
• Total number of credits for required coursework - 90 - 92 cr.
• Free Electives - 25 - 27 cr.
• Jr./Sr. Writing Requirement is met by upper division courses where formal laboratory reports are required and the capstone course, Chemistry Seminar.
• Listening and Speaking requirement is met by the advanced courses in chemistry and Chemistry Seminar.
• Computer Literacy is satisfied by the use of computers and scientific software in several courses beginning with General Chemistry.