Chemistry

Mission Statement 

The Chemistry Program is designed to provide students with a broad knowledge of the major concepts, theoretical principles, and experimental findings of Chemistry. Students will learn to apply chemical concepts to everyday life and to their career of choice.  Upon completion of this program, students will be prepared for postgraduate education or employment in government and industry. 

Chemistry Program Goals

1. Provide students with a broad knowledge of the major concepts, theoretical principles and experimental findings in chemistry
2. Develop students’ ability to understand and competently apply chemical concepts to everyday life, and specifically in their chosen career path
3. Promote advanced scientific knowledge and skills to meet professional career demands
4. Prepare students for, and foster an interest, in a post-baccalaureate education in chemistry, pharmacy, research, health professionals, engineering, and other related fields in science

Core Disciplines & Competencies (CDCs)

Students majoring in chemistry will:

1. Understand major concepts, theoretical principles, and experimental findings in chemistry
2. Utilize basic scientific research skills by conducting experiments, analyzing data, interpreting results and employing safe laboratory practices.
3. Utilize chemical instrumentation and other appropriate technology for analysis
4. Work effectively as a member of a diverse team
5. Employ critical thinking and effective problem-solving techniques in the classroom and in the laboratory
6. Communicate knowledge effectively in both written and oral expression
7. Utilize appropriate library and technological tools to conduct research and evaluate scientific 

Program Learning objectives (PLOs)

1. Apply the scientific method to solve problems in chemistry topics.
2. Name and write formulas for chemicals.
3. Predict outcomes for chemical reactions and write balanced equations.
4. Perform chemical calculations involved in stoichiometry, thermodynamics, titrations, chemical kinetics, and chemical equilibrium.
5. Utilize chemical terminology to explain concepts.
6. Predict stereochemistry and structure of the products and mechanisms involved in chemical reactions.
7. Use software to gather and analyze chemical data.
8. Use laboratory equipment, instruments, and chemicals appropriately and safely in the chemistry laboratory.
9. Make and record observations and accurate measurements in the laboratory setting.
10. Communicate the results of laboratory investigations.
11. Interpret spectroscopy of compounds and assign structures
12. Plan organic syntheses with knowledge of chemo- and regio-selectivity 
13. Explain how chemical and physical characteristics influence the properties and interactions of compounds