Chemistry
The mission of the department of chemistry is to educate students in the fundamentals of the science of chemistry and to produce scientifically curious and literate graduates who understand the role science plays in the modern world. Chemistry is often called the “central science” because it relates to so many areas of human interest and curiosity. These areas ultimately become intertwined with those of other disciplines, including physics, biology, medicine and many others. The goals of the department are the following:
- To prepare students who desire to enter professional work in chemistry at the bachelor’s level or who wish to pursue postgraduate work for advanced degrees in chemistry.
- To provide the requisite education in chemistry for other professional areas such as preparations for medical school, dental school, other health-related fields, engineering, etc.
- To provide a general education in chemistry for students majoring in areas other than the natural sciences.
Major in chemistry (B.A. degree): 34 semester hours, including CHEM 143- 144, 248-249, 341-342, 411, 412; and eight hours chosen from the following: CHEM 335, 337, 344-345, 379, 410, 414, 420, 430, 432, 436, 437, 471.
Supporting courses (B.A. degree): 24 semester hours, including eight hours of physics, MATH 231; and 13 hours from the natural sciences or mathematics.
Major in chemistry (B.S. degree): 43 semester hours, including CHEM 143- 144, 248-249, 337, 341, 342, 344-345, 411, 412, 432; and three hours chosen from: CHEM 335, 379, 410, 414, 420, 430, 431, 436, 437, 471.
Supporting courses (B.S. degree): 26 semester hours, including eight hours of physics, MATH 231 and 232; and 12 semester hours (3 hours 200-level or above) from mathematics, physics, computer science, or STAT 374.
Minor in chemistry: Option one: 19-20 semester hours, including CHEM 143, 144 or 341, 248-249, and one course from CHEM 337, 342, 344, or 432. Option two: 19-20 semester hours, including CHEM 143, 144 and three courses from CHEM 341, 342, 344, or 432.
CHEMISTRY
CHEM 113. Introductory Laboratory Chemistry (1:0:3)This course may be taken in conjunction with CHEM 133 for those students who desire a laboratory science course. The course may not be taken without CHEM 133. This laboratory will introduce the student to scientific measurements, physical and chemical changes, and techniques involved in inorganic, organic, and biochemistry.
CHEM 133. Introductory Chemistry (3:3:0)This course includes a general introduction to inorganic, organic, and nuclear chemistry including inorganic problem solving. Does not count towards the chemistry major. Students needing four hours credit or laboratory credit should also enroll in CHEM 113.
CHEM 143. General Chemistry I (4:3:3)An introduction to the general concepts of chemistry designed for the physical and life science major. Students who demonstrate superior ability in CHEM 143 will be encouraged to take CHEM 341 in the spring semester in lieu of CHEM 144. Upon the satisfactory completion of CHEM 249 and CHEM 341, the student will be granted credit for CHEM 144 after paying the institutional credit fee.
CHEM 144. General Chemistry II (4:3:3)An introduction to solution and equilibrium chemistry. Organic and biochemical topics will also be covered. This course is suitable for the science major, the allied health student, and others interested in chemistry. Prerequisite: CHEM 133 or 143.
CHEM 219, 229, 239, 419, 429, 439. Internship In Chemistry/Allied Heath Sciences (X:X:X)Opportunities in specialty fields are designed to familiarize the student with the challenges, opportunities and demands inherent in specific vocational areas. Maximum credit allowable, three semester hours.
CHEM 210, 220, 230, 310, 320, 330. Directed Study (X:X:X)An individualized course generally under the direction of a chemistry faculty member. The topic is chosen by the student and approved by the faculty member and department chairperson.
CHEM 248-249. Organic Chemistry (4:3:4.5 each)An introduction to the concepts of organic chemistry including organic functional groups, reactions, synthesis, and mechanisms. Each course may be taken without the laboratory for three semester hours credit with the consent of the instructor. Prerequisite: CHEM 144, 341 or consent of instructor.
CHEM 335. Quantum Mechanics (3:3:0)An introduction to theory and methods of quantum mechanics. Topics include the physical basis of quantum mechanics, its fundamental postulates, and applications in chemistry and physics. (Also offered as PHYS 335).
CHEM 337. Intermediate Organic Chemistry (3:3:0)An introduction to physical organic, reaction mechanisms and current synthetic methods. Prerequisite: CHEM 249, CHEM 344 advisable.
CHEM 341. Analytical Chemistry (4:3:4)A study of the general principles of modern analytical chemistry. The laboratory consists of an introduction to volumetric; gravimetric, pH, potentiometric, colorometric, electrometric and conductometric methods of analysis. Prerequisite: CHEM 144 or the equivalent, or consent of instructor.
CHEM 342. Instrumental Techniques (4:3:4)A study of the theory and application of modern instrumental techniques of chemical analysis. The laboratory work will illustrate the use of these instruments in modern chemistry. Prerequisite: CHEM 341, (CHEM 248-249, 344 advisable.)
CHEM 344-345. Physical Chemistry (4:3:4 each)A mathematical approach to the theories and laws of chemistry as applied to gases, liquids, solids, and solutions, including quantum theory, thermodynamics, chemical and physical equilibria, chemical kinetics, electrochemistry, colloids, etc. Prerequisite: CHEM 341, one semester of calculus, four hours of physics or consent of instructor.
CHEM 379. Special Topic (3:3:0)A course for advanced students in chemistry and physics covering such areas as theoretical chemistry, electronics, quantum mechanics, and thermodynamics. Offered only upon sufficient demand and availability of staff. Prerequisite: 12 semester hours of chemistry and calculus.
CHEM 410, 420, 430. Independent Study (X:X:X)Specialized individual work and seminars not covered by regular courses for advanced students who have shown themselves capable of independent study. Limited to juniors and seniors. Consult advisor before registering.
CHEM 411. Senior Seminar I (1:X:0)Choice of seminar topic and research methods, culminating with the writing of a research paper and an oral presentation. In addition seminars from professional chemists will be heard and analyzed.
CHEM 412. Senior Seminar II (1:X:0)Guidelines for an effective chemistry seminar, culminating in the presentation of a seminar and submission of a written research paper. In addition, seminars from professional chemistry will be heard and analyzed. Prerequisite: CHEM 411.
CHEM 414. Physiology/Biochemistry Laboratory (1:0:3)Prerequisite: CHEM 249 and CHEM 341 or consent of instructor.(Also offered as BIO 414.)
CHEM 431. Spectroscopy (3:3:0)Rigorous introduction to the theory and applications of ultraviolet, infrared, mass, nuclear magnetic resonance, and Raman spectroscopy. Prerequisite: CHEM 248-249, CHEM 344-345, or consent of instructor.
CHEM 432. Advanced Inorganic Chemistry (3:3:0)Modern concepts of the structure of matter, nature of the chemical bond, complex ions theories of acids and bases, and periodic properties of the elements are studied. Prerequisite: 16 hours of chemistry.
CHEM 436. Chemical Bonding (3:3:0)Introduction to molecular orbital theory and chemical applications of group theory. Prerequisite: CHEM 249 and CHEM 344.
CHEM 437. Biochemistry (3:3:0)An introduction to the chemistry of carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids. Enzyme and metabolism reactions will also be introduced. (Also offered as BIO 437.) Prerequisite: CHEM 249 and CHEM 341.
CHEM 471. Polymer Chemistry (3:3:0)Fundamental concepts of polymer chemistry, including mechanisms for synthesis, kinetics, and copolymerization; molecular weight, stereoisomerism, morphology, solubility, and thermal transitions; viscoelasticity and rubber elasticity; and the molecular basis for physical properties. Prerequisite: CHEM 249, CHEM 344, or consent of instructor.
