Apr 27, 2024  
2023 - 2024 College Catalog 
  
2023 - 2024 College Catalog

Chemistry, BS


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The general educational objective of the chemistry major is the development by the student of a fundamental understanding of basic principles, concepts, models, and practices employed by chemists in characterizing the structure and behavior of matter.

The chemistry major is structured to ensure that this fundamental knowledge is based on experiences that include the four major divisions of chemistry (analytical, inorganic, organic, and physical). The chemistry program is designed to foster development of an understanding of (1) the nature of the underlying scientific processes employed in the acquisition of chemical knowledge, (2) the application of current principles and modern practices used in solving chemical problems, (3) the current state of chemical knowledge, and (4) the applications of the concepts of chemistry in addressing societal needs. The program is particularly well-suited to prepare students for careers in chemistry or related areas and for admission to graduate, medical, or other professional schools.

Learning Outcomes

  • Correctly use the fundamental concepts of chemistry.
  • Solve problems by understanding and implementing the stages of the research process.
  • Effectively communicate and disseminate the results of the scientific process to a diverse audience.
  • Demonstrate the ability to identify, locate, and evaluate primary literature.
  • Work both individually and collaboratively with other students and faculty.
  • Exhibit the skills of a successful professional.

Degree Requirements


General College Requirements


General College Requirements (see Curriculum  section), including the following requirements to satisfy the major

Required Chemistry Core Courses (28 credit hours)


Required Cognate Courses


Elective Courses


Option 1: ACS-Certified Major


Elective (Required) one of the 4 options:

Option 2: non-ACS-Certified Major


Four credits hours selected from the following list of options:

St. Mary’s Project


Every chemistry major must complete a St. Mary’s Project. This project may be in chemistry or in another major discipline or study area. The guidelines established in the selected area apply. The project must be proposed to a mentor and to the chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at least three weeks before the last day of classes of the second semester of the student’s junior year, and it must be approved by the mentor and the department chair.

Minimum Grade and GPA Requirements


Students must earn a grade of C- or better in all courses listed above, and maintain an overall GPA of 2.0 or better in these required courses.

ACS Certification


The ACS certification is not a requirement for graduation

Students wishing to have their degrees certified by the American Chemical Society (ACS) must take the following:

and One 4 Credit Elective From the Following List:


Sequence of Study


First Year:


Sophomore Year:


Junior Year:


Senior Year:


  • Mary’s Project
  • Core Curriculum requirements
  • and elective courses

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