Chemistry, B.S.

Mission Statement

The mission of the chemistry program is to develop strong student competencies in chemistry, with special focus areas in analytical and environmental chemistry, and to develop strong critical reasoning skills in students that they can apply to all areas of study. The program’s faculty is committed to providing meaningful undergraduate experiences for both majors and non-majors through high-quality, student-centered teaching and undergraduate research mentoring. Students completing a degree in chemistry should be well prepared for either a career or graduate school in chemistry or a related discipline.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students who graduate with a B.S. in chemistry are expected to be able to:

1. Comprehend the fundamental principles of chemistry.
2. Design and conduct experiments to collect information related to chemical phenomena.
3. Analyze and evaluate chemical information.
4. Communicate chemical information both orally and in written form.

Chemistry is the science of all matter and its changes, and is therefore intimately linked to all the natural and applied sciences. Chemists work in diverse scientific, medical and engineering fields, so the curriculum of the Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry includes opportunities to take specialized coursework in biochemistry, environmental chemistry and other areas in addition to advanced courses in inorganic, organic, physical, and analytical chemistry. Students with specific career objectives should choose advanced coursework in consultation with their advisers. All majors are required to participate in one semester of faculty-directed laboratory research, and additional research experience is strongly encouraged.

Students must earn a grade of ‘C’ or better in all foundation and major requirement courses.