The goal of the Department of Chemistry is to offer a degree program that emphasizes a comprehensive learning experience by creating an atmosphere where each student can develop an inquiring mind capable of continuing to learn throughout a lifetime. In order to accomplish this goal, the Department of Chemistry emphasizes the ability to think critically and objectively and the skills needed to seek new knowledge through independent research. This includes engaging students in a well-rounded core curriculum, which incorporates organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and biochemistry.
The Department also provides three different options in the Bachelor of Science degree program that are designed to prepare students for their particular career goals: entering the work force after graduation; seeking advanced degrees in chemistry; or continuing education in medical, dental, or pharmacy schools. The Department of Chemistry is accredited by the American Chemical Society (ACS). Faculty of the Chemistry Department are actively engaged in research, providing students with many opportunities to work in various laboratory and research settings. Chemistry students are also expected to complete a General Education requirement designed to promote students’ ability to interconnect knowledge and apply concepts and skills from one area to another.
Revised
February 2002
The Chemistry curriculum (with --- hours of required coursework in the discipline) consists of five components:
I. Organic (-- hours)
II. Analytical (-- hours)
III. Physical (-- hours)
IV. Inorganic (-- hours)
V. Biochemistry (-- hours)
The graduates of the Chemistry program will be able to:
1. Demonstrate conceptual understanding and integration of the fundamentals in organic, analytical, physical, and inorganic chemistry.
2. Perform practical standard laboratory techniques and tasks with high level of precision and safety.
3. Apply fundamental scientific problem-solving strategies to a variety of situations and problems.
4. Demonstrate effective use of the chemical literature by identifying and retrieving various sources of information, evaluating the credibility of the sources, and critically reading and analyzing the scientific reports.
5. Demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills pertaining to chemical applications.
6. Design and conduct independent, systematic research.
Revised and Adopted
February 2002