Mission
The Department of Physical and Computational Sciences offers a rigorous education in Chemistry, Mathematics, Economics, Pre-Engineering/Physical Science, and Computer Science (Cybersecurity), embodying the College’s commitment to teaching and learning. The department fosters intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and innovation, preparing students to address complex scientific and societal challenges. In alignment with the College’s mission to provide a liberal arts education and prepare professionals, the department equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in their careers and contribute meaningfully to their communities in an atmosphere of study, work, and service.
The Chemistry Program provides an inclusive and rigorous education that connects chemistry with other fields. It emphasizes scientific reasoning and analytical problem-solving across the broad areas of the discipline, including analytical, biochemical, inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry. Through active learning methods and laboratory experiences, students acquire the professional skills necessary for success in graduate programs, industry, or other areas. Students are encouraged to develop their critical thinking, scientific curiosity, and interests through faculty-supervised research projects, internships, and experiences that bridge chemistry with other scientific and liberal arts fields.
Learning Outcomes
- Students will critically analyze and execute problems in the theoretical and applied areas of chemistry.
- Students will learn applied, experimental, and instrumental techniques, apply them in laboratory coursework, analyze the data measured, and create and document reports.
- Students will communicate both in written and oral forms in an appropriate scientifically accurate manner aligned with the intended audience.
- Students will be able to explore, critique, and reflect on how chemistry influences daily life, society, culture, economies, and issues of equity and ethics.
- Students will develop a strong foundation in chemistry, equipping them for successful careers and graduate study in chemistry and related fields.
Requirements for the Major
All students majoring in Chemistry are required to complete the following core courses:
In addition, each student must complete one of the following tracks:
Biochemistry Track:
Two additional courses from the following are recommended:
Professional Chemistry Track:
Select one elective from each of the following two groups:
Group 1:
Group 2:
Students that are interested in entering a career in chemical engineering are recommended to take CPSC 151 and the three courses in mathematics.
Students interested in pursuing a career in forensics are recommended to take CHEM 108 and 255 and complete the minor in criminal justice.
Entering freshmen interested in chemistry should enroll in CHEM 101 and a mathematics course at the appropriate level. Students with Level II placement must take a Level II course immediately to prepare themselves for the mathematics concepts in CHEM 102. Programs for subsequent semesters must be decided in consultation with the faculty advisors for Chemistry. Students with Advanced Placement (AP) in chemistry should consult immediately with a chemistry faculty member in the department for placement in a course at the appropriate level. Additional courses in mathematics are strongly encouraged.
All courses in chemistry and all required courses in mathematics, biology, and physics must be taken for a letter grade.