Chemistry Archive 2020-2021

Chemistry Major Archive 2020-2021

Learn more about this major

Degree Requirements - 126 credits

Students can earn a bachelor of arts degree with this major.  See the requirements for the bachelor of arts degree.

Students can earn a bachelor of science degree with this major.  See the requirements for the bachelor of science degree.

Major Requirements: 17 courses, 62-68 credits

Core Requirements (16 courses and corresponding laboratories where applicable, 58-64 credits)

Prerequisites:

Placement at MATH-104 or better. Students who do not place at MATH-104 must take MATH-104 concurrently. Must be taken concurrently with CHEM-L111.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Fundamental principles of chemistry are discussed. Introduces atomic structure, the periodic table, the nature of chemical bonds, chemical reactions, and stoichiometry. This course is recommended for science majors or those considering careers in the health sciences.

Prerequisites:

Placement at MATH-104 or better. Students who do not place at MATH-104 must take MATH-104 concurrently. Must be taken concurrently with CHEM-111.

Credits:

1.00

Description:

This course introduces the basic principles of chemistry through hands-on laboratory experiments. Students learn safe laboratory practices and fundamental technical skills. These include the determination of mass and volume, making solutions, and synthesizing a product. Emphasis is also placed on understanding and writing scientific literature.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-L112 (concurrently), CHEM-111, CHEM-L111 and MATH-104 or higher

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course is a continuation of General Chemistry I. Fundamental principles of chemistry are discussed. Introduces thermochemistry, gases, solution chemistry, chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, acid-base systems, and thermodynamics.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-112 (concurrently) and CHEM-111 and CHEM-L111 and MATH-104 placement or higher.

Credits:

1.00

Description:

This course is a continuation of General Chemistry I Laboratory. Apply the basic principles of chemistry through discovery laboratory experiments with an emphasis on quantitative analysis. Apply Beer's Law and acid-base titrations. This laboratory is designed around the foundational laboratory skills practiced by science students in a wide variety of majors.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-112 and CHEM-L112. CHEM-L211 must be taken concurrently.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Introduces basic theories of structure, bonding, and chemical reactivity as specifically applied to modern organic chemistry. Includes functional groups, acid/base chemistry, nomenclature, resonance, spectroscopy, and stereochemistry.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-112 and CHEM-L112. Must be taken concurrently with CHEM-211.

Credits:

1.00

Description:

Introduces synthetic organic chemistry techniques. Includes melting point determination, distillation, crystallization, extraction, chromatographic separations, and infrared spectroscopy. Discusses experimental design within the context of green organic chemistry.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-211 and CHEM-L211. Must take CHEM-L212 concurrently.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Builds on the core competencies acquired in Organic Chemistry I. Includes detailed mechanistic discussions of substitution elimination and addition reactions. Emphasizes organic synthesis structure determination and spectroscopy.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-211 and CHEM-L211. Must be take CHEM-212 concurrently.

Credits:

1.00

Description:

This hybrid laboratory course builds on the core competencies acquired in Organic Chemistry Laboratory I and has two mandatory face to face laboratory sessions to develop essential laboratory skill. The remaining lab sessions use a variety of virtual tools including simulations, videos, class discussions and data analysis. Emphasizes the characterization of organic molecules via nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Discusses experimental design within the context of green organic chemistry.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-211 and CHEM-L314 (concurrently)

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Explores the basic techniques of collecting and analyzing data from different types of instrumentation, including: ultraviolet, visible, fluorescence, atomic and emission spectroscopy; chromatographic methods; electrochemical measurements. Students will apply these techniques to problems in chemistry, forensics, and environmental science.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-314 (concurrently) and CHEM-L211

Credits:

1.00

Description:

This hybrid laboratory will be offered with three mandatory face to face sessions to develop essential skills. The rest of the curriculum will be offered in an online format. Explores the basic techniques of collecting and analyzing data from different types of instrumentation, including: ultraviolet, visible, fluorescence, atomic and emission spectroscopy; chromatographic methods; electrochemical measurements. Students will apply these techniques to problems in chemistry, forensics, and environmental science.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-L331 (concurrently) CHEM-212 and CHEM-L212 or permission of instructor

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Explores the foundations of biochemistry, including the structure, organization and behavior of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids. Topics include enzyme catalysis, kinetics, and inhibition as well as protein regulation and membrane structure. Introduces the use of biochemical literature and bioinformatics techniques.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-331 (concurrently) and CHEM-212 and CHEM-L212 or permission of instructor

Credits:

1.00

Description:

Laboratory course introducing biochemical techniques. Includes buffer preparation, PCR, purification of DNA and proteins, agarose and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, protein quantitation and detection, and enzyme kinetic assays.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-314 and CHEM-L314

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Topics in inorganic chemistry including bonding theories, chemical structures, symmetry and group theory, kinetics and mechanisms of reactions, and spectroscopy. Advanced topics may include bioinorganic chemistry, or organometallics.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-375 concurrently

Credits:

1.00

Description:

Laboratory exercises designed to illustrate principles covered by topics in CHEM 375. Prior or concurrent enrollment in CHEM 375 required.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-112 and MATH-166

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Explores quantum chemistry through simple model systems such as particle in a box, harmonic oscillator, rigid rotor, and hydrogen atom. Applications to electronic, vibrational, and rotational spectroscopy and elements of atomic and molecular structure.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-411 concurrently

Credits:

1.00

Description:

Experiments in molecular spectroscopy, quantum chemistry, nanomaterials, and introduction to computational chemistry. Emphasis will be placed on experimental design and data analysis skills in addition to technical writing skills as demonstrated through reports prepared in the professional style.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-411

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Explores the laws of thermodynamics and their molecular basis through the kinetic theory of gases and statistical mechanics. Includes chemical kinetics and theories of reaction rates.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-412 (concurrently) and CHEM-L411

Credits:

1.00

Description:

Experiments in thermodynamics, materials, chemical kinetics, and computational chemistry. Emphasis will be placed on experimental design and data analysis skills in addition to technical writing skills as demonstrated by laboratory reports prepared in the professional style.

Prerequisites:

MATH-121 with a minimum grade of C, MATH-075, or MATH level 5

Credits:

4.00

Description:

Functions, limits and continuity, squeeze theorem, limits at infinity; instantaneous rate of change, tangent slopes, and the definition of the derivative of a function; power, product, and quotient rules, trig derivatives, chain rule, implicit differentiation; higher order derivatives; derivatives of other transcendental functions (inverse trig functions, exponential and log functions, hyperbolic trig functions); applications of the derivative (implicit differentiation, related rates, optimization, differentials, curve sketching, L'Hopital's rule); anti-derivatives; indefinite integrals; Fundamental Theorem; applications (net change). 4 lecture hours plus 1 recitation session each week. Normally offered each semester.

Prerequisites:

MATH-164 or MATH-165 with a minimum grade of C

Credits:

4.00

Description:

Riemann sums and definite integrals; Fundamental Theorem; applications (areas); integration of exponential functions, trig functions, and inverse trig functions; techniques of integration (substitution, by parts, trig integrals, trig substitution, partial fractions); area, volume, and average value applications; differential equations (separable, exponential growth, linear); improper integrals; infinite sequences and series; convergence tests; power series; Taylor and Maclaurin series (computation, convergence, error estimates, differentiation and integration of Taylor series). 4 lecture hours plus 1 recitation session each week. Normally offered each semester.

Prerequisites:

MATH-166 with grade of C or better

Credits:

4.00

Description:

Parametric equations and polar coordinates (curves, areas, conic sections); vectors and the geometry of space (the dot product, vector arithmetic, lines and planes in 3-space, the cross product, cylinders and quadratic surfaces); vector functions (limits, derivatives and integrals, motion in space); partial derivatives (functions of several variables, limits and continuity, tangent planes and differentials, chain rule, directional derivatives, gradient, extrema, Lagrange multipliers); multiple integrals (double integrals, applications); vector calculus (vector fields, line integrals, fundamental theorem for line integrals, Green's Theorem, curl and divergence, parametric surfaces, surface integrals). 4 lecture hours plus 1 recitation session each week. Normally offered each semester.

Prerequisites:

MATH-121 or MATH-134 with a grade of C or better. MATH-165 can replace these prerequisites if taken concurrently with PHYS-151. Must take PHYS-L151 concurrently.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

PHYS 151 is the first of three courses (PHYS 151, 152, 153) that comprise the calculus-based introductory physics sequence intended for students majoring in the physical sciences, engineering and mathematics. This course covers basic techniques in physics that fall under the topic of classical mechanics and their application in understanding the natural world. Specific topics include the study of vectors, Newton's laws, rotations, kinetic and potential energy, momentum and collisions, rigid body statics and dynamics, fluid mechanics, gravitation, simple harmonic motion, mechanical waves, sound and hearing. The student will learn how to analyze physical situations by using simple models, and also how to solve those models and derive useful conclusions from them. This course will show students how experimental results and mathematical representations are combined to create testable scientific theories.

Prerequisites:

Take PHYS-151 concurrently.

Credits:

1.00

Description:

This laboratory course consists of experiments and exercises to illustrate the basic concepts studied in PHYS 151: measurements, propagation of errors, vectors, Newton's laws, work and energy, momentum, rotations, oscillations, simple harmonic motion, fluid. Knowledge of algebra, trigonometry, differentiation and integration required.

Prerequisites:

PHYS-151 and PHYS-L151. Must be taken concurrently with PHYS-L152.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This calculus-based course continues the topics in physics covered in Physics 151 and begins with temperature and heat, the thermal properties of matter, and the lasw of thermodynamics. It then switches to electromagnetism and covers electric charge and field, Gauss' law, electrical potential and capacitance, electric currents and DC circuits. Next magnetism, electromagnetic induction, Faraday's law and AC circuits are discussed. This is followed by Maxwell's equations and electromagnetic waves.

Prerequisites:

PHYS-152 (concurrently) and PHYS-151 and PHYS-L151

Credits:

1.00

Description:

This laboratory course consists of experiments and exercises to illustrate the basic concepts studied in PHYS 152: heat, gas laws, electric forces, field, and potential, DC and AC circuits, magnetic field, electromagnetic induction, Faraday's law, optics. Calculus, algebra, trigonometry are required. Error propagation, use of Excel, laboratory notebooks, and formal reports required.

Choose one of the following:

Prerequisites:

CHEM 212; CHEM L212; Instructor's Consent required

Credits:

1.00- 4.00

Description:

First of a senior level, two-semester sequence of independent study under the supervision of faculty. Students may opt to conduct experimental research or grant proposal development. Students desiring departmental honors and/or an ACS-accredited degree must conduct authentic research; consult with the course instructor. Development of a research report and poster presentation to the department are required elements.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-212 and CHEM-L212 and instructor's consent. CAS Honors Students only.

Credits:

1.00- 4.00

Description:

First of a senior level, two-semester sequence of independent study under the supervision of faculty. Students desiring departmental honors must conduct authentic research; consult with the course instructor. Development of a research report and poster presentation to the department are required elements.

Choose one of the following:

Prerequisites:

CHEM-212 and CHEM-L212 and instructor's consent required

Credits:

1.00- 4.00

Description:

Second of a senior level, two-semester sequence of independent study under the supervision of faculty. Students may opt to conduct experimental research or grant proposal development. Students desiring departmental honors and/or an ACS-accredited degree must conduct authentic research; consult with the course instructor. Development of a final research report and oral presentation to the department and the SU community are required elements.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-212 and CHEM-L212 and instructor's consent required. CAS Honors students only.

Credits:

1.00- 4.00

Description:

Second of a senior level, two-semester sequence of independent study under the supervision of faculty. Students desiring departmental honors must conduct authentic research; consult with the course instructor. Development of a final research report and oral presentation to the department and the SU community are required elements.

Elective Requirements (1 lecture course and 1 lab, 4 credits)

Students are required to take one course of in-depth study, with an additional credit of laboratory. These courses are not offered every year, and careful consultation with an academic advisor is recommended.

Choose one of the following applicable lecture courses:

Prerequisites:

CHEM-L332 (concurrently) and CHEM-331

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Explores the principles of bioenergetics and metabolism of biomolecules. Includes intermediary metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids, and oxidative phosphorylation. Additional topics include signal transduction and the regulation and integration of metabolism.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-211 or permission of instructor

Credits:

3.00

Description:

A study of the chemical processes (including biologically mediated ones) that affect the cycling and ultimate fate of chemicals in the environment. Topics include air, water, and soil chemistry as well as energy and climate change. The effects of pollutant loads on natural systems and the remediation and treatment methods used to minimize pollutant loads are investigated. 3 hour lecture. Normally offered spring, odd numbered years.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-331 or instructor's consent

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Introduces basic principles of pharmacology (dose-response curves, absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion) and toxicology. The biochemical mechanisms of several toxicants (pain-killers, ethanol, pesticides, etc.) will be discussed.

Prerequisites:

MATH-121, MATH-164, or MATH-165; PHYS-151; PHYS-L153 concurrently

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This calculus-based course is the third in the series of introductory physics courses. It begins with optics and includes the nature and propogation of light, geometric optics, interference, and diffraction. The focus then changes to modern physics and begins with special relativity, the Lorentz transformation, relativistic momentum and energy, addition of relativistic velocities, early quantum theory, blackbody radiation, photoelectric effect, the Compton Effect, photon interactions, pair production, and Bohr's theory of the atom. Schrodinger's equation is introduced with use of wave functions, solutions to a particle in a box, barrier penetration, quantum mechanical tunneling, the Pauli Exclusion principle, the development of the periodic table, and the X-ray spectra. The final topics cover nuclear physics, radioactivity, half-life, nuclear fission and fusion, medical uses of radiation, and elementary particle physics.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-111 and CHEM-L111 and CHEM-112 and CHEM-L112 and BIO-114 and BIO-L114 (or UES-111 and UES-L111)

Credits:

4.00

Description:

This course is designed to identify the ways that scientific knowledge can be used to resolve environmental problems particularly the ocean's role in the biogeochemical cycling of selected elements and the impacts of humans on the cycling of these elements. Sample topics include the chemical composition of seawater from the perspectives of elemental speciation and the impacts of solutes on water's physical behavior; biogeochemical phenomena which control accumulation and preservation of marine sediments; marine chemistry of dioactive and stable isotopes; and how climate change and pollution impact the marine environment with mitigation strategies outlined.

To satisfy the requirement for the one credit laboratory, students may either take the laboratory associated with the lecture course, when offered, or use one credit of independent study, which is a variable credit course.

Choose one of the following applicable laboratory courses:

Prerequisites:

CHEM-332 (concurrently) and CHEM-331 and CHEM-L331

Credits:

1.00

Description:

Hybrid biochemistry laboratory course where students learn experimental design and critical analysis of the scientific literature while conducting novel research. Projects vary from year to year but may include recombinant DNA techniques, purification and quantitation of DNA and proteins, enzyme kinetics, and bioinformatics. Includes at least three mandatory face-to-face laboratory sessions to develop essential biochemistry lab skills.

Prerequisites:

CHEM 355 must be taken concurrently. Take CHEM-L211;

Credits:

1.00

Description:

Laboratory exercises designed to illustrate principles covered by topics in CHEM 355. Prerequisites: CHEM L211, concurrent enrollment in CHEM 355 required. 4-hour laboratory. Normally offered spring, odd numbered years.

Prerequisites:

Take CHEM-212 previously, CHEM-453 concurrently

Credits:

1.00

Description:

Laboratory course where students learn to use biochemistry, cheminformatics and bioinformatics tools to predict the effect that various xenobiotics will have on various receptors, transporters and enzymes in the human body. Lab techniques may include: enzyme kinetics, binding affinity, and ELISA.

Prerequisites:

An independent study form must be submitted to the CAS Dean's Office.

Credits:

1.00- 4.00

Description:

Advanced study of a special topic in chemistry, by arrangement with the chemistry faculty.

Prerequisites:

An independent study form must be submitted to the CAS Dean's Office. CAS Honors students only.

Credits:

1.00- 4.00

Description:

Advanced study of a special topic in chemistry or biochemistry, by arrangement with the faculty.

Prerequisites:

PHYS-153 concurrently

Credits:

1.00

Description:

This laboratory course consists of experiments to and exercises to illustrate the basic concepts studied in PHYS 153. Includes experiments and computations to illustrate the basic concepts of special relativity, the Lorentz transformation, relativistic momentum and energy, addition of relativistic velocities, early quantum theory, blackbody radiation, photoelectric effect, the Compton Effect, photon interactions, pair production, and the Bohr theory of the atom.

Note: The curricula for the BA and BS degrees in Chemistry may satisfy the requirements for certification by the American Chemical Society. In order to satisfy the American Chemical Society Certification Requirements, students must conduct a research project for their senior seminar project.

Residency Requirement Policy: In the College of Arts and Sciences, a two-course (8 credit) residency requirement must be satisfied for completion of a minor and a four-course (16 credit) residency requirement must be satisfied for the completion of a major.

Chemistry Learning Goals & Objectives Archive 2020-2021

Learning goals and objectives reflect the educational outcomes achieved by students through the completion of this program. These transferable skills prepare Suffolk students for success in the workplace, in graduate school, and in their local and global communities. 

Learning Goals Learning Objectives
Students will... Students will be able to...
Know problem-solving and critical thinking
  • Define a problem clearly and develop a testable hypothesis
  • Analyze data and perform calculations
  • Draw conclusions
Know scientific information literacy
  • Retrieve information from library and journal search engines (e.g. SciFinder, PubMed, Google Scholar)
  • Critically analyze and/or discuss literature
Know laboratory skills
  • Synthesize, separate, and characterize compounds
  • Carry out an experiment precisely and accurately using the appropriate instrumentation
  • Record results in a laboratory notebook
  • Work safely in the laboratory
Know effective written and oral communication skills
  • Prepare and present a scientific poster
  • Prepare and present formal oral scientific presentation
  • Write a paper in the style of a professional scientific journal
Understand scientific ethics
  • Avoid plagiarism (including self-plagiarism)
  • Cite scientific literature appropriately
  • Follow ethical guidelines when keeping a laboratory notebook
Know the Fundamentals of Chemistry and Biochemistry
  • Demonstrate mastery of the fundamentals of inorganic chemistry (electronic structure, physical and chemical properties, bonding, inorganic chemical reactions and analyses, stoichiometric relations between reactants)
  • Demonstrate mastery of the fundamentals of organic chemistry (structure and bonding in organic molecules; acid/base properties of molecules and how they affect reactivity; organic mechanisms, predict outcomes/routes; spectral analysis (IR, NMR, MS); green chemistry)
  • Demonstrate mastery of the fundamentals of analytical chemistry (collect and analyze data from analytical instrumentation including spectrometric instruments (UV-vis, NMR, infrared ATR-FTIR, fluorometer); chromatographic instruments (GC); and electroanalytical instrumentation (potentiometry))
  • Demonstrate mastery of the fundamentals of physical chemistry (quantum chemistry; molecular spectroscopy; statistical thermodynamics; laws of thermodynamics; spontaneity; chemical and physical equilibria; chemical kinetics; advanced theories of reaction rates)
  • Demonstrate mastery of the fundamentals of biochemistry (structure/function of amino acids, proteins, enzymes, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids; protein folding, regulation; enzyme kinetics, inhibition, thermodynamics; bioinformatics)
Know advanced chemistry concepts
  • Apply advanced theories of bonding to the structural geometry and reactivity of coordination complexes

Chemistry Minor Archive 2020-2021

Learn more about this minor

Minor Requirements: 6 courses and corresponding laboratories where applicable, 24 credits

Core Requirements (4 courses and corresponding laboratories, 16 credits)

Prerequisites:

Placement at MATH-104 or better. Students who do not place at MATH-104 must take MATH-104 concurrently. Must be taken concurrently with CHEM-L111.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Fundamental principles of chemistry are discussed. Introduces atomic structure, the periodic table, the nature of chemical bonds, chemical reactions, and stoichiometry. This course is recommended for science majors or those considering careers in the health sciences.

Prerequisites:

Placement at MATH-104 or better. Students who do not place at MATH-104 must take MATH-104 concurrently. Must be taken concurrently with CHEM-111.

Credits:

1.00

Description:

This course introduces the basic principles of chemistry through hands-on laboratory experiments. Students learn safe laboratory practices and fundamental technical skills. These include the determination of mass and volume, making solutions, and synthesizing a product. Emphasis is also placed on understanding and writing scientific literature.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-L112 (concurrently), CHEM-111, CHEM-L111 and MATH-104 or higher

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course is a continuation of General Chemistry I. Fundamental principles of chemistry are discussed. Introduces thermochemistry, gases, solution chemistry, chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, acid-base systems, and thermodynamics.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-112 (concurrently) and CHEM-111 and CHEM-L111 and MATH-104 placement or higher.

Credits:

1.00

Description:

This course is a continuation of General Chemistry I Laboratory. Apply the basic principles of chemistry through discovery laboratory experiments with an emphasis on quantitative analysis. Apply Beer's Law and acid-base titrations. This laboratory is designed around the foundational laboratory skills practiced by science students in a wide variety of majors.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-112 and CHEM-L112. CHEM-L211 must be taken concurrently.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Introduces basic theories of structure, bonding, and chemical reactivity as specifically applied to modern organic chemistry. Includes functional groups, acid/base chemistry, nomenclature, resonance, spectroscopy, and stereochemistry.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-112 and CHEM-L112. Must be taken concurrently with CHEM-211.

Credits:

1.00

Description:

Introduces synthetic organic chemistry techniques. Includes melting point determination, distillation, crystallization, extraction, chromatographic separations, and infrared spectroscopy. Discusses experimental design within the context of green organic chemistry.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-211 and CHEM-L211. Must take CHEM-L212 concurrently.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Builds on the core competencies acquired in Organic Chemistry I. Includes detailed mechanistic discussions of substitution elimination and addition reactions. Emphasizes organic synthesis structure determination and spectroscopy.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-211 and CHEM-L211. Must be take CHEM-212 concurrently.

Credits:

1.00

Description:

This hybrid laboratory course builds on the core competencies acquired in Organic Chemistry Laboratory I and has two mandatory face to face laboratory sessions to develop essential laboratory skill. The remaining lab sessions use a variety of virtual tools including simulations, videos, class discussions and data analysis. Emphasizes the characterization of organic molecules via nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Discusses experimental design within the context of green organic chemistry.

Electives (2 courses, 8 credits)

Choose two CHEM electives (8 credits) at the 200-level or higher (except CHEM-503/CHEM-H503), of which at least one credit is a laboratory.

Residency Requirement Policy: In the College of Arts and Sciences, a two-course (8 credit) residency requirement must be satisfied for completion of a minor and a four-course (16 credit) residency requirement must be satisfied for the completion of a major.

Minor Programs Policy: A student declaring a minor may use no more than two courses from a major or double major combination to fulfill the requirements for the minor. No more than one course from one minor may count toward the fulfillment of a second minor. Students may not minor in a subject in which they are also completing a major. For more information, see the Minor Programs section of the CAS Degree Requirements page.

Honors Archive 2020-2021

To complete requirements for honors in the major, a candidate must:

  1. Graduate with a major GPA of 3.5 or higher
  2. Graduate with an overall GPA of 3.5 or higher
  3. Complete CHEM-H429
  4. Complete a final project involving original independent laboratory or field research and/or in-depth analysis that is approved by the major department and research advisor
  5. CAS Honors Program students only: Present work from the senior honors experience at the Honors Symposium or Pecha Kucha event

To become a candidate for honors in the major, a student must:

  1. Have a major GPA of 3.5 or higher
  2. Have an overall GPA of 3.5 or higher
  3. Apply to the departmental honors committee and an advisor(s) by submitting an independent project proposal for pre-approval by October of senior year

Chemistry Courses Archive 2020-2021

Prerequisites:

Placement at MATH-104 or better. Students who do not place at MATH-104 must take MATH-104 concurrently. Must be taken concurrently with CHEM-L111.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Fundamental principles of chemistry are discussed. Introduces atomic structure, the periodic table, the nature of chemical bonds, chemical reactions, and stoichiometry. This course is recommended for science majors or those considering careers in the health sciences.

Prerequisites:

Placement at MATH-104 or better. Students who do not place at MATH-104 must take MATH-104 concurrently. Must be taken concurrently with CHEM-111.

Credits:

1.00

Description:

This course introduces the basic principles of chemistry through hands-on laboratory experiments. Students learn safe laboratory practices and fundamental technical skills. These include the determination of mass and volume, making solutions, and synthesizing a product. Emphasis is also placed on understanding and writing scientific literature.

Prerequisites:

Placement at MATH-104 or better. Students who do not place at MATH-104 must take MATH-104 concurrently. Must be taken concurrently with CHEM-111.

Credits:

1.00

Description:

This online laboratory course introduces the basic principles of chemistry through the use of a variety of virtual tools such as simulations and videos. Students learn about safe laboratory practices and fundamental technical skills. These include the determination of mass and volume, making solutions, and conducting a chemical reaction. Emphasis is also placed on understanding and writing scientific literature.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-L112 (concurrently), CHEM-111, CHEM-L111 and MATH-104 or higher

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course is a continuation of General Chemistry I. Fundamental principles of chemistry are discussed. Introduces thermochemistry, gases, solution chemistry, chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, acid-base systems, and thermodynamics.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-L112 (concurrently), CHEM-111, CHEM-L111 and MATH-104 or higher. CAS Honors students only.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course is a continuation of General Chemistry I. Fundamental principles of chemistry are discussed. Introduces thermochemistry, gases, solution chemistry, chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, acid-base systems, and thermodynamics.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-112 (concurrently) and CHEM-111 and CHEM-L111 and MATH-104 placement or higher.

Credits:

1.00

Description:

This course is a continuation of General Chemistry I Laboratory. Apply the basic principles of chemistry through discovery laboratory experiments with an emphasis on quantitative analysis. Apply Beer's Law and acid-base titrations. This laboratory is designed around the foundational laboratory skills practiced by science students in a wide variety of majors.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-111/L111; CHEM-112 must be take concurrently. MATH-104 placement or higher.

Credits:

1.00

Description:

This course is a continuation of the General Chemistry I Laboratory. Students apply the principles of chemistry through virtual experiments with an emphasis on quantitative analysis. Analytical techniques such as calorimetry and acid-base titrations are introduced. This laboratory is designed around the foundational laboratory skills practiced by science students in a wide variety of majors.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-112 and CHEM-L112. CHEM-L211 must be taken concurrently.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Introduces basic theories of structure, bonding, and chemical reactivity as specifically applied to modern organic chemistry. Includes functional groups, acid/base chemistry, nomenclature, resonance, spectroscopy, and stereochemistry.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-112 and CHEM-L112. Must be taken concurrently with CHEM-211.

Credits:

1.00

Description:

Introduces synthetic organic chemistry techniques. Includes melting point determination, distillation, crystallization, extraction, chromatographic separations, and infrared spectroscopy. Discusses experimental design within the context of green organic chemistry.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-112 and CHEM-L112. Must be taken concurrently with CHEM-211.

Credits:

1.00

Description:

Online laboratory course that introduces organic chemistry concepts and techniques through the use of a variety of virtual tools including simulations, videos, class discussion and data analysis. Students will become familiar with a variety of techniques such as melting point determination, distillation, crystallization, extraction, chromatographic separations, and characterization using infrared spectroscopy. Discusses experimental design within the context of green organic chemistry principles.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-211 and CHEM-L211. Must take CHEM-L212 concurrently.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Builds on the core competencies acquired in Organic Chemistry I. Includes detailed mechanistic discussions of substitution elimination and addition reactions. Emphasizes organic synthesis structure determination and spectroscopy.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-211 and CHEM-L211. Must be take CHEM-212 concurrently.

Credits:

1.00

Description:

This hybrid laboratory course builds on the core competencies acquired in Organic Chemistry Laboratory I and has two mandatory face to face laboratory sessions to develop essential laboratory skill. The remaining lab sessions use a variety of virtual tools including simulations, videos, class discussions and data analysis. Emphasizes the characterization of organic molecules via nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Discusses experimental design within the context of green organic chemistry.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-212 (concurrently) and CHEM-211 and CHEM-L211

Credits:

1.00

Description:

Online laboratory course that builds on the core competencies acquired in Organic Chemistry Laboratory I, using a variety of virtual tools including simulations, videos, class discussions and data analysis. Emphasizes the characterization of organic molecules via nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Discusses experimental design within the context of green organic chemistry principles.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-211 and CHEM-L314 (concurrently)

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Explores the basic techniques of collecting and analyzing data from different types of instrumentation, including: ultraviolet, visible, fluorescence, atomic and emission spectroscopy; chromatographic methods; electrochemical measurements. Students will apply these techniques to problems in chemistry, forensics, and environmental science.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-314 (concurrently) and CHEM-L211

Credits:

1.00

Description:

This hybrid laboratory will be offered with three mandatory face to face sessions to develop essential skills. The rest of the curriculum will be offered in an online format. Explores the basic techniques of collecting and analyzing data from different types of instrumentation, including: ultraviolet, visible, fluorescence, atomic and emission spectroscopy; chromatographic methods; electrochemical measurements. Students will apply these techniques to problems in chemistry, forensics, and environmental science.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-L331 (concurrently) CHEM-212 and CHEM-L212 or permission of instructor

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Explores the foundations of biochemistry, including the structure, organization and behavior of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids. Topics include enzyme catalysis, kinetics, and inhibition as well as protein regulation and membrane structure. Introduces the use of biochemical literature and bioinformatics techniques.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-331 (concurrently) and CHEM-212 and CHEM-L212 or permission of instructor

Credits:

1.00

Description:

Laboratory course introducing biochemical techniques. Includes buffer preparation, PCR, purification of DNA and proteins, agarose and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, protein quantitation and detection, and enzyme kinetic assays.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-331 (concurrently) and CHEM-212 and CHEM-L212 or permission of instructor

Credits:

1.00

Description:

Online laboratory course introducing the concepts behind a variety of biochemical techniques including buffer preparation, PCR, protein purification, agarose and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, protein quantitation and detection, and enzyme kinetic assays. The biochemistry behind COVID-19 will be discussed, including the molecular swab test for active infection by SARS-CoV-2 and the serological antibody test for past infection. The Coronavirus spike protein sequence and structure will be investigated through bioinformatics tools.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-L332 (concurrently) and CHEM-331

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Explores the principles of bioenergetics and metabolism of biomolecules. Includes intermediary metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids, and oxidative phosphorylation. Additional topics include signal transduction and the regulation and integration of metabolism.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-332 (concurrently) and CHEM-331 and CHEM-L331

Credits:

1.00

Description:

Hybrid biochemistry laboratory course where students learn experimental design and critical analysis of the scientific literature while conducting novel research. Projects vary from year to year but may include recombinant DNA techniques, purification and quantitation of DNA and proteins, enzyme kinetics, and bioinformatics. Includes at least three mandatory face-to-face laboratory sessions to develop essential biochemistry lab skills.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-211 or permission of instructor

Credits:

3.00

Description:

A study of the chemical processes (including biologically mediated ones) that affect the cycling and ultimate fate of chemicals in the environment. Topics include air, water, and soil chemistry as well as energy and climate change. The effects of pollutant loads on natural systems and the remediation and treatment methods used to minimize pollutant loads are investigated. 3 hour lecture. Normally offered spring, odd numbered years.

Prerequisites:

CHEM 355 must be taken concurrently. Take CHEM-L211;

Credits:

1.00

Description:

Laboratory exercises designed to illustrate principles covered by topics in CHEM 355. Prerequisites: CHEM L211, concurrent enrollment in CHEM 355 required. 4-hour laboratory. Normally offered spring, odd numbered years.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-314 and CHEM-L314

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Topics in inorganic chemistry including bonding theories, chemical structures, symmetry and group theory, kinetics and mechanisms of reactions, and spectroscopy. Advanced topics may include bioinorganic chemistry, or organometallics.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-375 concurrently

Credits:

1.00

Description:

Laboratory exercises designed to illustrate principles covered by topics in CHEM 375. Prior or concurrent enrollment in CHEM 375 required.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-112 and MATH-166

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Explores quantum chemistry through simple model systems such as particle in a box, harmonic oscillator, rigid rotor, and hydrogen atom. Applications to electronic, vibrational, and rotational spectroscopy and elements of atomic and molecular structure.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-411 concurrently

Credits:

1.00

Description:

Experiments in molecular spectroscopy, quantum chemistry, nanomaterials, and introduction to computational chemistry. Emphasis will be placed on experimental design and data analysis skills in addition to technical writing skills as demonstrated through reports prepared in the professional style.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-411 concurrently

Credits:

1.00

Description:

What does a quantum particle in a box have to do with the color of a dye? This online laboratory course answers this question and more through exploration of topics in molecular spectroscopy, quantum chemistry, and nanomaterials. Students are introduced to the methods and principles of computational chemistry through computer-based experiments. Analysis of experimental and simulated data and technical writing skills are emphasized.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-411

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Explores the laws of thermodynamics and their molecular basis through the kinetic theory of gases and statistical mechanics. Includes chemical kinetics and theories of reaction rates.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-412 (concurrently) and CHEM-L411

Credits:

1.00

Description:

Experiments in thermodynamics, materials, chemical kinetics, and computational chemistry. Emphasis will be placed on experimental design and data analysis skills in addition to technical writing skills as demonstrated by laboratory reports prepared in the professional style.

Prerequisites:

CHEM 212; CHEM L212; Instructor's Consent required

Credits:

1.00- 4.00

Description:

First of a senior level, two-semester sequence of independent study under the supervision of faculty. Students may opt to conduct experimental research or grant proposal development. Students desiring departmental honors and/or an ACS-accredited degree must conduct authentic research; consult with the course instructor. Development of a research report and poster presentation to the department are required elements.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-212 and CHEM-L212 and instructor's consent. CAS Honors Students only.

Credits:

1.00- 4.00

Description:

First of a senior level, two-semester sequence of independent study under the supervision of faculty. Students desiring departmental honors must conduct authentic research; consult with the course instructor. Development of a research report and poster presentation to the department are required elements.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-212 and CHEM-L212 and instructor's consent required

Credits:

1.00- 4.00

Description:

Second of a senior level, two-semester sequence of independent study under the supervision of faculty. Students may opt to conduct experimental research or grant proposal development. Students desiring departmental honors and/or an ACS-accredited degree must conduct authentic research; consult with the course instructor. Development of a final research report and oral presentation to the department and the SU community are required elements.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-212 and CHEM-L212 and instructor's consent required. CAS Honors students only.

Credits:

1.00- 4.00

Description:

Second of a senior level, two-semester sequence of independent study under the supervision of faculty. Students desiring departmental honors must conduct authentic research; consult with the course instructor. Development of a final research report and oral presentation to the department and the SU community are required elements.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-331 or instructor's consent

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Introduces basic principles of pharmacology (dose-response curves, absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion) and toxicology. The biochemical mechanisms of several toxicants (pain-killers, ethanol, pesticides, etc.) will be discussed.

Prerequisites:

Take CHEM-212 previously, CHEM-453 concurrently

Credits:

1.00

Description:

Laboratory course where students learn to use biochemistry, cheminformatics and bioinformatics tools to predict the effect that various xenobiotics will have on various receptors, transporters and enzymes in the human body. Lab techniques may include: enzyme kinetics, binding affinity, and ELISA.

Credits:

0.00

Description:

This course requires students to complete a minimum of 15 engagement hours per semester. Students gain exposure to a variety of activities related to research in a laboratory or field setting with faculty oversight. Permission of instructor required. May be taken more than once.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-111 and CHEM-L111 and CHEM-112 and CHEM-L112. CAS students only. Instructor consent required.

Credits:

1.00- 4.00

Description:

This course provides students with credit for an unpaid off-campus chemistry or biochemistry internship completed during the semester when credit is earned. Students must secure an approved internship and provide documentation from the internship's overseer to a full time faculty member sponsor in the department in order to register for the course. The internship must involve participation in research and/or relevant professional training. Students or their overseers will be required to submit records of internship hours and provide the faculty sponsor with a written summary of internship experiences and accomplishments. Does not satisfy any requirements or electives of either the chemistry or biochemistry major or of the chemistry minor. This course is available for variable credit. A CHEM 503 Internship for Credit form must be submitted to the department chair.

Prerequisites:

CHEM-111 and CHEM-L111 and CHEM-112 and CHEM-L112. Honors CAS students only. Instructor consent required.

Credits:

1.00- 4.00

Description:

This course provides honors students with credit for an unpaid off-campus chemistry or biochemistry internship completed during the semester when credit is earned. Students must secure an approved internship and provide documentation from the internship's overseer to a full time faculty member sponsor in the department in order to register for the course. The internship must involve participation in research and/or relevant professional training. Students or their overseers will be required to submit records of internship hours and provide the faculty sponsor with a written summary of internship experiences and accomplishments. Does not satisfy any requirements or electives of either the chemistry or biochemistry major, or of the chemistry minor. This course is available for variable credit to honors students only. A CHEM H503 Internship for Credit form must be submitted to the department chair.

Prerequisites:

An independent study form must be submitted to the CAS Dean's Office.

Credits:

1.00- 4.00

Description:

Advanced study of a special topic in chemistry, by arrangement with the chemistry faculty.

Prerequisites:

An independent study form must be submitted to the CAS Dean's Office. CAS Honors students only.

Credits:

1.00- 4.00

Description:

Advanced study of a special topic in chemistry or biochemistry, by arrangement with the faculty.