Go to Table of Contents Chemistry and Physics
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Chemistry and Physics Faina Ryvkin, Ph.D. Chair Chemistry is the basic science that deals with the composition and transformation of matter. Scientific, medical and technological phenomena ultimately are understood in terms of molecular structure and interactions. Chemistry is often referred to as the central science, and a clear understanding of chemistry is essential for all branches of the natural and physical sciences.
Recognizing the value of an individual research experience, we encourage our students to participate in research projects with the faculty. Summer research opportunities are also available. Internships can be designed to match individual backgrounds and interests. The chemistry program prepares students for graduate study and professional careers in education, academic research, industry and engineering. A major in the chemistry program is also an excellent choice for students in the health sciences and pre-professional programs, including medicine, dentistry, law and pharmacy.
Learning Goals and Outcomes At the completion of the Chemistry degree, the student will have: • Working knowledge of the mole, stoichiometry, periodic table, atomic and
The Capstone Experience The culminating experience for all chemistry majors is the Senior Seminar in Chemistry course (CHEM4160). These courses are typically completed in the spring semester of the student’s final year of study. In order to begin the capstone seminar students must have successfully completed at least four upper-level chemistry courses. During the capstone course, students write and present a scientific review article on an advanced topic of their choice within the seminar theme. Student achievement is evaluated by the capstone course instructor and presentations are shared with Chemistry department faculty. 2012-2013 Academic Catalog
Programs of Study for Liberal Arts and Sciences
Knowledge of chemistry is also useful in such fields as law, government, business and art. Many aspects of our high-technology society can be understood better from the viewpoint of chemistry. The chemistry department is equipped with the modern instrumentation and computer technology that are used intensively in laboratory courses and student-directed research.
molecular structure, introductory acidbase theory, and heat content. • Working knowledge of organic functional group interconversions and carbon-carbon bond formation in relation to synthesis, and basics of organic reaction mechanisms. • Working knowledge of laws of thermodynamics, kinetic-molecular theory of gases, phase transitions, basics of quantum mechanics and spectroscopy. • Working knowledge of chemical techniques including: solution preparation, thin layer and column chromatography, distillation, titration, melting point determination, chemical synthesis, spectroscopy. • Working knowledge of laboratory safety including: collection of data safely, safe disposal of chemicals, and good laboratory practice. • Working knowledge of experimental design, data and error analysis, methods of chemical analysis, computer technology used by chemists, and the types/uses of scientific search engines.