• Students will have the opportunity to tailor their education to their professional goals by concentrating on biochemistry or graduate school preparation.
  • One of the department’s most popular emphasis areas, biochemistry offers students an in-depth look at the chemical processes of living organisms. Students will work to understand the complex chemical properties and the interactions, processes, structures, and functions of living cells.
  • A bachelor's degree in chemistry is ideal for a pre-med student or someone interested in a health profession. Medical schools do not require a particular college major, but a chemistry background will be helpful in biochemistry, endocrinology, physiology, microbiology, and pharmacology.
  • Learning outcomes:
    • Students will demonstrate an understanding of major concepts in all five major disciplines of chemistry: analytical, biochemistry, inorganic, organic, and physical.
    • Students will employ critical thinking and the scientific method to design, carry out, record, and analyze the results of chemical experiments.
    • Students will demonstrate proficiency in the use of appropriate instrumentation to collect and record data from chemical experiments.
    • Students will demonstrate proficiency in the use of appropriate library searching and retrieval methods to obtain information about a topic, chemical, chemical technique, or an issue relating to chemistry.
    • Students will demonstrate proficiency in writing and speaking about chemistry topics in a clear and concise manner to both chemists and non-chemists according to professional standards.
    • Students will know and follow proper procedures and regulations for the safe handling, use, and disposal of chemicals.
    • Students will demonstrate an awareness of the impact of chemistry on the environment, society, and other cultures outside the scientific community.
    • Students will effectively and respectfully communicate and collaborate with colleagues.
    • Students will contribute their own knowledge and experiences to their community and the broader society by participating in professional and/or community activities.
    • Students will demonstrate an understanding of the structure, chemical properties, and reactions of the biomolecules and their biopolymers.