Chemistry and Biochemistry
Daniel Reger, Chair
The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers courses in the traditional areas of analytical, biochemistry, inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry, as well as specialized classes in areas like biochemistry and molecular biology, environmental, forensic, materials, biophysical, polymer and computational chemistry. Students will be equipped with a solid scientific foundation, knowledge of computer programming and written communication skills, providing a strong background for a career in the sciences or for future graduate studies.
Our department has three undergraduate bachelor’s degrees and a minor. The general major leads to the Bachelor of Science with a major in chemistry. The intensive major, suggested for those intending to enter a chemistry-related profession, leads to the degree of Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. Our department also offers a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in biochemistry and molecular biology.
The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry has been approved by the American Chemical Society’s (ACS) Committee on Professional Training, and the curriculum for the Bachelor of Science in Chemistry meets ACS requirements. Graduates who attain the certified degree (the B.S.C.) complete requirements that exceed those of the general track, and this comprehensive experience provides an excellent foundation for a career in the molecular sciences.
Retention, Progression, and Transfer Standards
- Chemistry majors may enroll in a chemistry course a maximum of twice to earn the required grade of C or higher. Biochemistry and molecular biology majors may enroll in a biology or chemistry course a maximum of twice to earn the required grade of C or higher.
- A chemistry major must receive a grade of C or higher in any chemistry course in order for it to be used to satisfy a major requirement. A biochemistry and molecular biology major must receive a grade of C or higher in any chemistry or biology course in order for it to be used to satisfy a major requirement.
- Any student applying for transfer to the chemistry major from other programs within the University, or from other accredited colleges and universities, is required to have a minimum overall grade point average of 2.50 on a 4.00 scale.
Note: All three standards apply for the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, B.S. degree. The first three standards apply for the Chemistry, B.S. and the Chemistry, B.S. Chem degrees.