Chemistry B.S. (ACS-Certified)
Objectives
The Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry offers students an opportunity to acquire a solid fundamental understanding of chemical principles, to acquire basic laboratory skills, to develop skills in oral and written communication and the use of the chemical literature, to gain an appreciation of chemistry, to develop critical thinking and logical reasoning, to use the scientific method, and to develop an ability to learn and work independently that will prepare them for advanced studies and successful careers in industry, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, forensics, government, and education.
The chemistry and biochemistry curricula are designed to accomplish the above objectives through contact with specific chemistry content, exposure to laboratory experiences, and encouragement of the creative process and independent research. The degree program is flexible so that an individual can best prepare for his or her specific career. Students are encouraged to choose supporting work and electives which reinforce their knowledge of chemistry and biochemistry. Students who receive a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry or the Bachelor of Science in biochemistry, and complete the curriculum approved by the American Chemical Society (ACS) graduate as ACS-certified chemists.
Chemistry High School Preparation
Students desiring to major in chemistry are expected to have a strong high school background in science and mathematics as well as good writing skills. Calculus, biology, chemistry, and physics are disciplines that the student should have studied in high school. Students who have not had these studies in high school may have additional prerequisite courses as part of their curriculum. Contact the chair of the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry for information and advisement.
Degree Requirements
Total Semester Hours=120
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University Core Curriculum — 42 hrs.
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A minimum grade of "C" in all chemistry courses.
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Completion of BIOL 1306/BIOL 1106, BIOL 1307/BIOL 1107, MATH 2413 and MATH 2414
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Completion of PHYS 2325/PHYS 2125 or PHYS 1301/PHYS 1101, and PHYS 2326/PHYS 2126 and PHYS 1302/PHYS 1102.
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Completion of 52 semester hours of chemistry. Twelve semester hours of upper-division chemistry must be completed at this university. Required and elective Chemistry courses are listed below.
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Approved lower and upper-division electives selected with the student’s career goals in mind. Suggested electives include courses in chemistry, biology, mathematics, computer science, statistics, education, speech, technical writing, technology, economics, psychology, sociology, ethics, and business administration.
Preparation for careers in specialized areas of chemistry and biochemistry is possible by careful selection of supporting areas of concentration. A partial list of specialized chemistry and biochemistry careers includes chemical marketing, chemical business, environmental chemistry, forensic science, pre-law (chemical patents), health professions (pre-medical and pre-dental), technical writing, biotechnology, and chemical technology. Students should confer with the academic advisor of the department in regard to such options and their career goals.
Chemistry Courses Required (52 hrs.)
Core Chemistry Courses
Completion of 37 semester hours of core chemistry courses listed below.
Advanced Chemistry Electives
Completion of 15 hours of advanced chemistry electives. Students must take CHEM 3354/CHEM 3155 and/or CHEM 4312/CHEM 4113. Only one of the in-depth biochemistry courses (CHEM 4336, CHEM 4340 or CHEM 4344) may count towards the 15 hours.