A classic definition of chemistry is "the branch of science concerned with the properties and transformations of matter." Chemistry is sometimes called the "central science" because of its importance in other fields such as biology, agriculture, medicine, geology, nutrition, law enforcement and engineering. Without knowledge of chemistry, humans could not grow enough food, combat disease, drink clean water, make clothing, create artwork, or clean up the environment. Understanding chemistry helps humans appreciate the beauty of the natural world.
Chair: Paul Stein, Ph.D.
The Chemistry Department offers these programs:
The chemistry major provides a foundation in the sub-disciplines of organic, analytical, physical, and inorganic chemistry. Students may earn either a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree.
The B.S. chemistry major (72 credits) is designed for students seeking entry-level employment as a chemist or a graduate degree in chemistry or a related discipline. Advanced coursework and a research experience in addition to the foundational courses complete the degree work for the B.S.
Required courses for the B.S. degree: CHM 1110,
1120, 2200, 2210, 3000, 3220, 3240, 3460, 3470,
4020, 4060, 4120, and 4 credits of upper-division
CHM electives; MTH 2221, 2222, 3322; PSC 2001, 2002.
Chemistry major may earn a second degree in biochemistry by completing the needed additional course requirements. (See the following section for a description of the B.S. Biochemistry major.)
The B.A. chemistry major (48 credits) is appropriate for students seeking to combine foundational study in chemistry with coursework in biology and social sciences as preparation for professional school in medicine, dentistry, optometry, pharmacy, and physician's assistant. Students also may combine the B.A. major with a concentration of courses outside the School of Science to pursue chemistry careers in non-traditional areas such as law, journalism, computers, management, etc. Finally, the B.A. chemistry major offers students time to study abroad or pursue a more liberal education while having preparation to obtain entry-level employment as a chemist in many industries.
Required courses for the B.A. degree: CHM 1110, 1120, 2200, 2210, 3000, 3460, 4020 and 4 credits of upper division CHM electives; MTH 2221, 2222; PSC 2001, 2002.
Additional courses recommended for pre-medical studies are BIO 1110, 1120, 2110, 2120, 2020, 2021, 3500; PSY 2208, 3423. Since each professional school may have additional, specific admission requirements, pre-professional students should consult with their adviser and professional school catalogs for further details.
This degree program emphasizes the role of chemical processes in living systems through a combination of coursework in biology, chemistry, and allied fields. It is appropriate for students interested in pursuing an advanced degree in biochemical sciences, forensic science, medicine (including pharmacy, dentistry, optometry, physician's assistant), or for those seeking entry-level employment in the biochemistry or biotechnology industry.
Required courses: CHM 1110, 1120, 2200, 2210, 3000, 3240, 3430, 3431, 3460; BIO 1110, 2020, 2021, 3500, 3600; PSC 2001, 2002; MTH 2221, 2222; and 8 additional credits in upper-division BIO or CHM courses. Each professional school may have additional, specific admission requirements. Pre-professional students should consult with their adviser and professional school catalogs for further details. A student majoring in Chemistry may earn a second degree in biochemistry by completing the additional course requirements.
This program is specifically designed for students seeking Minnesota licensure (grades 5-12 or 9-12). Note: more than four years are required to complete the licensure requirements unless students enter the College with advanced standing.
Required courses CHM 1110, 1120, 2200, 2210, 3000,3240,3460,4020,4060; BIO 1104; PSC 1202, 2001,2002,4150; MTH 2211; NSC 3333, 3335; EDU 1540, 1505, 2102, 2200, 2300, 2800, 2805, 3250, 3800, 4700, 4710. Registration in all EDU courses 2500 or higher requires acceptance into the EDU program. The student should have both a chemistry and education faculty adviser.
The minor is designed to provide basic competency in general, organic, and analytical chemistry for students not majoring in Biochemistry or Chemistry. Required courses: CHM1110,1120, 2200, 2210, and 3000. No substitutions or exchanges are permitted for these courses.
Students apply for admission to the chemistry or biochemistry major in the spring semester of their second year or after they have completed CHM 1110, 1120, 2200, 2210, and 3000. A completed application to major form and essay are submitted to the department chairman. Application to the minor may be made to the department chairman after completing CHM 1110, 1120, and 2200.
Students admitted to the major must have an overall 2.0 grade point average and a minimum of grade of C- in all required courses. A minimum grade of C- is required in all courses in the minor.
Students must earn a minimum of C- in all courses required for the major and remain in good academic standing with the College to maintain status as a Chemistry or Biochemistry major. Beyond the minimum grade performance, students are expected to be involved in the community life of the department through attendance at its seminars, involvement in chemistry volunteer and outreach activities, participation in social functions, cooperation with program assessment activities, and if qualified, by serving as a teaching assistant.
Students graduating with a degree in Chemistry or Biochemistry will: