Chemistry

Toxicology is an interdisciplinary scientific discipline that overlaps biology, chemistry, biochemistry, pharmacology, and medicine. It helps us understand the adverse effects that chemical substances have on living things and the environment. It involves the practice of diagnosing and treating exposures to toxins and toxicants. Examples from medical, clinical, forensic, computational, occupational, and environmental toxicology are included. The course incorporates the use of case studies to support problem-based and evidence-based learning.

A study of the chemical reactions occurring on the molecular level in biological systems (illustrating the interrelationships of different biochemical pathways). 2 lecture hours and one 4 hour laboratory session weekly. (spring)

This course is a continuation of Biochemistry I. It is an extensive study of the metabolic processes used to maintain life. Differences in pathways utilized by different organisms are examined, as well as some processed in plant and microorganisms. 2 lecture hours weekly. (Fall)

Required for biology majors during their senior year. Students pursue a two-semester individual research project to evaluate the hypothesis. During the first semester (BIO 450) students review recent literature on a research topic of interest, propose a testable hypothesis, and design a laboratory or field project to evaluate the hypothesis.

Required for biology majors during their senior year. Students pursue a two-semester individual research project underevaluate the hypothesis. During the second semester (BIO 451) the project is carried out, and the results analyzed and discussed in an oral presentation and written report.

An introductory chemistry course for no science majors. The course is designed for students with no, or limited, exposure to chemistry. The focus will be on the study of chemical principles, with special emphasis placed on providing an understanding of how these specific principles, and chemistry in general, relate to the non-scientist. This is done by addressing the chemistry involved with common materials such as plastics and polymers, cosmetics/medicines/drugs, food /nutrition, pollution/environment, batteries/ fuel/nuclear power, and soaps/detergents. The laboratory provides hands-on experiments designed to illustrate the principles and the utility of the chemistry discussed in the lecture. 2 lecture hours 2.5 hour laboratory session weekly. (fall/summer)

An introduction to the fundamental principles and theories of chemistry. Topics discussed include the structure and properties of atoms and molecules, their behavior in various states of matter, periodicity of the properties of elements, chemical bonding and stoichiometry. Problem solving techniques are stressed. 2.5 lecture hours and one 2.5 hour laboratory session weekly.

A continuation of CHEM 103. Topics include chemical kinetics, acid-base theory, elementary thermodynamics, electrochemistry, and nuclear chemistry. This course together with CHEM 103 is designed for all science majors and those in related fields. 2.5 lecture hours and one 2.5 hour laboratory session weekly. (spring)

An introduction to the study of the chemistry of organic compounds and their transformations, including stereochemistry, reaction mechanisms and spectroscopy (IR, MS, and NMR).  The laboratory section of the course provides training both in-person and virtually in some basic techniques of organic chemistry, such as different methods of purification and separation of organic compounds. 

This course is a continuation of Organic Chemistry I (CHEM 201).  A study of the chemistry of several relevant functional groups and biomolecules.  The study of reaction mechanisms and the examination of intermediates, such as carbocations, is used extensively in order to explain reactivities.  The laboratory section of the course provides hands-on training in organic synthesis and reinforces the use of modern spectroscopic analyses for structure determination.

This course offers Chemistry majors the opportunity to work in the field of chemistry for a minimum of 120 hours during the semester. Students must complete all paperwork to register for the Internship at least one semester before; students will meet with the Career Center and complete the application that will be sent to their advisor and site supervisor. This application will then be filed in the Career Center. Students must register for the class with the Registrar as well. They will be required to write a paper that is relevant to the Internship and maintain a journal that reflects their experience; the site supervisor will complete an evaluation form on their performance. This is a Pass/Fail course. (as needed)