Mark Fischer, Ph.D., Chairperson
The Chemistry Department offers a major in chemistry, Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree, a major in biochemistry, as well as a major in chemistry and mathematics. The department also offers courses in physical science, geology and physics. The immediate objective of the study of chemistry or biochemistry, in addition to the acquisition of a basic knowledge of the science, is the development of the ability to think critically, to work in the laboratory, to interpret observations, and to express ideas clearly and concisely.
Chemistry and biochemistry courses are offered to satisfy the needs and interests of three types of students: 1) those who elect chemistry or biochemistry in order to teach, to enter medical school, to work as professional chemists, or to enter graduate school; 2) those who need a knowledge of chemistry as a basis for some related field, such as athletic training, education, nursing, or physical therapy; and 3) those who desire a knowledge of chemistry in order to live more intelligently in this age of technology.
The Bachelor of Science chemistry program is approved by the American Chemical Society. It is designed to provide the student with professional competency in chemistry, supporting courses in mathematics, physics and biology, and the option of additional complementary courses in keeping with the career goals of the student. Complementary courses suggested are biology, mathematics, computer science, education, business, communication studies, and psychology.
The major in biochemistry provides an excellent foundation for graduate study or professional study such as medical school, dental school, physician's assistant, or pharmacology. It also provides professional competency in chemistry with additional emphasis on biochemistry and biology.
In order to remain in one of the departmental programs, a student must earn a grade of "C" or higher in all major or cognate courses. Students earning a D, F, or W in any major or cognate course will be subject to the following action(s):
- Student will receive a warning letter from the department chairperson after the first D, F, or W.
- Student will be placed on probation after the second D, F, or W.
- Student will be dismissed from the major after the third D, F, or W.
A student may appeal in writing the dismissal from the major to the chairperson. In extenuating circumstances, the chairperson may reinstate the student to the major.
A student in good standing may elect to pursue cooperative education in chemistry.
Minor in Sustainability Studies
The Chemistry Department offers a minor in Sustainability Studies to students from any major. Students will gain interdisciplinary knowledge in fields of ecology, economics and environmental ethics. They will also learn from local organizations that are addressing issues related to environmental sustainability through service learning.
Minor in Forensic Science
The Biology Department offers a minor in Forensic Science particularly designed for students majoring in Biology, Chemistry, Criminology, Neuroscience, Psychology, and Sociology. Typically, students in these majors will only need to complete an additional 14-18 credit hours to fulfill the minor, however, students from any major may pursue the Forensic Science Minor.
The minor consists of 30 total credit hours, many of which satisfy major or liberal arts and science requirements.
Learning Outcomes
Chemistry and Biochemistry
Chemistry/Mathematics