Chemistry < St. Olaf College

Stacey Argabright, Regents Science 336
Phone: 507-786-3104
chemistry@stolaf.edu
wp.stolaf.edu/chemistry

St. Olaf traditionally graduates more chemistry majors than any other four-year college in the United States. The college also ranks in the top five as a source of students who obtain the Ph.D. in chemistry and related fields. Chemistry faculty members have a fine record of achievement in teaching and research; several have won prestigious national awards. Students enjoy state-of-the-art instrumentation and computers in both the laboratory and the classroom.

The Chemistry Department offers an array of courses in the traditional areas of chemistry (organic, analytical, physical, inorganic). Courses in biochemistry, organometallic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, and other topics introduce students to interdisciplinary and bridging sciences that utilize a chemical perspective.

The department has an active summer research program in which faculty and students work together to investigate problems of current interest. Students graduating with chemistry majors have had excellent success in gaining admission to graduate and professional schools and in obtaining employment opportunities. A major in chemistry may lead to employment in chemical research and in related areas such as medical applications of chemistry, environmental chemistry, and materials science. A chemistry major also provides an excellent background for continued education in professional schools in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and related fields.

Overview of the Major

An overview of general options for the chemistry major, including the major and the American Chemical Society (ACS) approved emphasis may be found at http://wp.stolaf.edu/chemistry/planning-a-st-olaf-college-chemistry-major.

Course List
Code	Title	Credits
Four First-Year Options
Select one of the following options:
Option A:
CHEM 121 & CHEM 123 & CHEM 126	General Chemistry and Atomic and Molecular Structure and Energies and Rates of Chemical Reactions	3.00
Option B:
CHEM 122 & CHEM 126	Introductory Chemistry and Energies and Rates of Chemical Reactions	2.00
Option C:
CHEM 125 & CHEM 126	Structural Chemistry and Equilibrium and Energies and Rates of Chemical Reactions	2.00
Upper-Level Core Courses
CHEM 247 & CHEM 253	Organic Chemistry I and Synthesis Laboratory I (0.25)	1.25
CHEM 248 & CHEM 254	Organic Chemistry II and Synthesis Laboratory II (0.25)	1.25
CHEM 255 & CHEM 256	Analytical Chemistry and Analytical Laboratory (0.25)	1.25
CHEM 371 & CHEM 357	Physical Chemistry and Physical Laboratory (0.25)	1.25
Department Seminars
Attendance at 12 departmental seminars after declaration of major

After the first year, the order of courses is not prescribed, but CHEM 248 Organic Chemistry II does serve as prerequisite to several upper-level courses. Upper-level courses in addition to this core set are also required, as described under requirements for the major. Gaining experience in the laboratory is an important aspect of the major, and students are encouraged to participate in research either on-campus with St. Olaf faculty or at other institutions.

Intended Learning Outcomes for the Major

Distinction

See Academic Honors

The Chemistry Department seeks to encourage and recognize students who give evidence of creative and independent scholarship. A variety of opportunities are available for students to take a much greater responsibility for setting their goals and realizing the achievements of their education. Going beyond the regular course work, which introduces the theory and practice of chemistry, distinction challenges students to raise questions worthy of scientific investigation. Opportunities for distinction projects include, for example, summer research either on or off campus, CHEM 297 Independent Research (0.25, 0.50, 1.00) , CHEM 298 Independent Study, CHEM 398 Independent Research, and faculty-approved literature research projects. All projects for distinction will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

A full description of the distinction process is available at http://wp.stolaf.edu/chemistry/information-for-current-chemistry-majors/earning-distinction-in-chemistry/.

Recommendations for Graduate and Professional Study

Students planning graduate work in chemistry should expect to take additional optional courses above and beyond the single optional course required for the general major. In particular, students interested in graduate school should take CHEM 386 Advanced Inorganic Chemistry by the end of the junior year so that they have taken the background courses relevant to the Chemistry Graduate Record Examination prior to fall of the senior year, when that examination is typically taken. CHEM 255, CHEM 256, CHEM 371, and CHEM 357 should also be taken in advance of or during the semester when the Chemistry GRE is offered.

American Chemical Society Emphasis

The St. Olaf College Chemistry Department is approved by the Committee on Professional Training of the American Chemical Society (ACS); this enables the Department to award ACS-certified degrees in chemistry. Students can earn an ACS-certified degree if they complete the chemistry major and the American Chemical Society emphasis. This optional ACS emphasis provides a path for students to complete a more rigorous and encompassing chemistry degree. This is especially important for students entering the job market after graduation as it signifies to employers that these students have additional background above the standard major. It should be noted that chemistry courses taken for the ACS emphasis will count towards the elective course for the chemistry major.

Special Programs

St. Olaf chemistry majors have a number of options for special study, both on-campus and elsewhere. On-campus programs that may include chemistry topics include concentrations in biomolecular science, environmental studies, and neuroscience. Study abroad and away programs include the cooperative B.A.-B.S.E. engineering programs at Washington University in St. Louis and the University of Minnesota, where students may earn a degree in engineering; the Oak Ridge Science Semester; biochemistry at Lancaster University (Lancaster, England); and the study of medicinal chemistry on an January term abroad program in Jamaica. Internships in local industrial settings are also possible. Consult the Smith Center for Global Engagement or the Piper Center for Vocation and Career for more information on these programs.

Requirements for the Major

Course List
Code	Title	Credits
Chemistry Department Seminars
Attendance at 12 departmental seminars after declaration of major
Introductory Sequence
Select one of the following options:
Option A:
CHEM 121 & CHEM 123 & CHEM 126	General Chemistry and Atomic and Molecular Structure and Energies and Rates of Chemical Reactions	3.00
Option B:
CHEM 122 & CHEM 126	Introductory Chemistry and Energies and Rates of Chemical Reactions	2.00
Option C:
CHEM 125 & CHEM 126	Structural Chemistry and Equilibrium and Energies and Rates of Chemical Reactions	2.00
Upper-Level Core Courses
CHEM 247 & CHEM 253	Organic Chemistry I and Synthesis Laboratory I (0.25)	1.25
CHEM 248 & CHEM 254	Organic Chemistry II and Synthesis Laboratory II (0.25)	1.25
CHEM 255 & CHEM 256	Analytical Chemistry and Analytical Laboratory (0.25)	1.25
CHEM 371 & CHEM 357	Physical Chemistry and Physical Laboratory (0.25)	1.25
Select at least one additional course from the following:		1.00
CHEM 252	Organometallic Chemistry
CHEM 280	Organic Analysis and Theory
CHEM 298	Independent Study ¹
CHEM 360	Medicinal Chemistry
CHEM 379	Biochemistry I
CHEM 382	Instrumental Analysis
CHEM 384	Bioanalytical Chemistry
CHEM 386	Advanced Inorganic Chemistry
CHEM 388	Advanced Organic Chemistry
CHEM 391	Selected Topics in Chemistry
CHEM 396	Directed Undergraduate Research (1.00 credit)
CHEM 398	Independent Research ¹
Physics - select one of the following:		1.00
PHYS 125	Principles of Physics II
PHYS 232	Analytical Physics III
Mathematics - select one of the following:		1.00
MATH 126	Calculus II
MATH 128	Honors Calculus II

¹: Projects for CHEM 298 Independent Study or CHEM 398 Independent Research must have departmental approval.

Students must earn a grade of C or above in at least six Chemistry Department courses that count for the major, at least four of which must be numbered 240 or above. CHEM 298 (Independent Study), CHEM 396 (Directed Undergraduate Research), and CHEM 398 (Independent Research) may not be used to satisfy this requirement. Completion of at least one course credit in independent research (or completion of a summer research experience) is strongly recommended for students planning careers in chemistry. For more information, see http://wp.stolaf.edu/chemistry/.

Requirements for the Chemistry Major with Grades 9-12 Teaching Licensure

A chemistry major who wishes to teach chemistry in grades 9-12 in Minnesota must hold a valid Minnesota teaching license in chemistry. In addition to the chemistry major, additional science courses and the professional education sequence are required. A license to teach grades 5-8 in science is also available with additional course requirements. Interested students should consult with a faculty advisor in the Education Department for details of requirements and available options.

For a full listing of requirements, see http://wp.stolaf.edu/chemistry/planning-a-st-olaf-college-chemistry-major/

*By completing this major, the student also satisfies the OLE Core Writing in the Major requirement.

Requirements for the American Chemical Society (ACS) Emphasis

The St. Olaf College Chemistry Department also offers a degree emphasis approved by the American Chemical Society (ACS) through its Committee on Professional Training. Prospective majors in chemistry who desire the American Chemical Society emphasis will complete the following courses:

Course List
Code	Title	Credits
Required Courses:
CHEM 379	Biochemistry I	1.00
CHEM 378	Instrumental Analysis Laboratory (0.25)	0.25
CHEM 382	Instrumental Analysis	1.00
CHEM 386	Advanced Inorganic Chemistry	1.00
Select one of the following elective courses:		1.00
CHEM 252	Organometallic Chemistry
CHEM 298	Independent Study ¹
CHEM 360	Medicinal Chemistry
CHEM 384	Bioanalytical Chemistry
CHEM 385	Biochemistry II
CHEM 388	Advanced Organic Chemistry
CHEM 391	Selected Topics in Chemistry
Additional laboratory hours must be obtained by completing at least 1.25 lab credits. Summer research can substitute for 1.0 credit worth of lab experiences. In order for more than 0.25 credit of research to be used to fulfill this requirement, a comprehensive written report must be submitted. One laboratory experience must include either biochemistry or inorganic topics. Research can be used to fulfill this biochemistry or inorganic topic requirement, pending approval from the chair of the chemistry department. Choose 1.25 lab credits from the following:		1.25
CHEM 297	Independent Research (0.25, 0.50, 1.00)
CHEM 373	Experimental Biochemistry Lab (0.25)
CHEM 375	Advanced Laboratory (0.25)
CHEM 384	Bioanalytical Chemistry
CHEM 396	Directed Undergraduate Research
CHEM 398	Independent Research
Choose two courses from the following:		2.00
MATH 220	Elementary Linear Algebra
MATH 226	Multivariable Calculus
MATH 230	Differential Equations I
STAT 172	Statistics 1
Total credits above the major: ²		5.5-6.5

¹: Project for CHEM 298 must have departmental approval.
²: Some courses listed above can double or triple count toward various requirements. For instance, bioanalytical chemistry counts as the additional elective course, the 1.0 credit toward the laboratory requirement and satisfies the laboratory experience on a biochemistry or inorganic topic for the ACS emphasis. A summer research on a biochemistry or inorganic project counts for 1.0 out of the 1.25 credits for the additional laboratory hours and satisfies the laboratory experience on a biochemistry or inorganic topic for the ACS emphasis.

CHEM 107: Forensic Science with Lab

This course introduces the fundamentals of forensic science. Class periods may focus on the historic development of forensic science, proper collection and storage of evidence, background in scientific concepts, scientific techniques used to analyze evidence, the types of information that can be obtained, and the statistical methods for making a case in a court of law. Some topics that may be covered include hair, drug, paint, fiber, fingerprint, accelerant, or DNA analysis. The laboratory component features the use of forensic techniques to collect and analyze evidence including fingerprinting, drug analysis, alcohol investigation, DNA fingerprinting, and fiber analysis. Students attend three classes and one three-hour laboratory per week. Does not count toward the chemistry major. Offered annually in the spring semester.

CHEM 121: General Chemistry

This course provides a study of chemical stoichiometry and equilibrium at a level and pace appropriate to students with little or no background in chemistry. The combination of this course and CHEM 123 (offered during January Term) provides coverage of topics equivalent to those in CHEM 125. Students planning to continue in chemistry should consider concurrent registration in MATH 119 or MATH 120. Students attend three classes and one three-hour laboratory per week. Offered annually in the fall semester. Also counts toward biomolecular science concentration.

CHEM 122: Introductory Chemistry

This study of chemical stoichiometry, equilibrium, acid-base chemistry, coordination chemistry, and atomic and molecular structure supplies the fundamental background on which all later chemistry courses depend. It includes applications of equilibrium principles to acid-base chemistry. Students attend four classes and one three-hour laboratory each week. Students planning to continue in chemistry should consider concurrent registration in MATH 119 or MATH 120. The course cannot be taken in conjunction with or after credit in CHEM 121. Offered annually in the fall semester. Also counts toward biology major and biomolecular science concentration.
Prerequisites: placement via online placement survey.

CHEM 123: Atomic and Molecular Structure

This course, a continuation of CHEM 121, examines atomic and molecular structure, including classical and quantum theories, bonding models, molecular orbitals and coordination chemistry. CHEM 121 and CHEM 123 together are equivalent in content to CHEM 125 and are designed to prepare students for CHEM 126. Offered during January Term. Also counts toward biomolecular science concentration.
Prerequisite: CHEM 121.

CHEM 124: A Matter of the Environment with Lab

Students study contemporary questions concerning the environment from the fundamental properties of matter to human impact on natural processes, including damage to and protection of the environment. Students discover how chemistry intersects with everyday living, especially the abilities and limitations of science to address environmental issues. Laboratory work explores the characteristics and analysis of hazardous and beneficial materials. Counts toward environmental studies major (arts and humanities and social science emphases) and concentration; does not count toward chemistry major. Offered during January Term.

CHEM 125: Structural Chemistry and Equilibrium

This study of chemical stoichiometry, equilibrium, acid-base chemistry, coordination chemistry, and atomic and molecular structure supplies the fundamental background on which all later chemistry courses depend. It includes applications of equilibrium principles to acid-base chemistry. Students attend three classes and one three-hour laboratory per week. Students planning to continue in chemistry should consider concurrent registration in MATH 119 or MATH 120. The course cannot be taken in conjunction with or after credit in CHEM 121 or CHEM 122. Offered annually in the fall semester. Also counts toward biology major and biomolecular science concentration.
Prerequisite: placement via online placement survey.

CHEM 126: Energies and Rates of Chemical Reactions

This course provides a sequential introduction to physical chemistry. Beginning with an introduction to statistical aspects of chemical equilibria, it explores the relationships between energy, entropy and equilibria (thermodynamics); oxidation-reduction reactions and electrochemistry; transitions between phases; and rates of reactions. Students attend three classes and one three-hour laboratory per week. Offered annually in the spring semester. Also counts toward biomolecular science concentration.
Prerequisite: CHEM 125, or CHEM 122, or CHEM 121 and CHEM 123, and concurrent or previous enrollment in MATH 119 or MATH 120, or permission of instructor.

CHEM 247: Organic Chemistry I

Organic chemistry is the study of compounds containing carbon, emphasizing the structures and mechanisms of reaction of these molecules. This course focuses on structure, nomenclature, and reactions of aliphatic and alicyclic compounds, including aspects of stereochemistry and spectroscopic identification of organic compounds. A full treatment of introductory organic chemistry requires subsequent enrollment in CHEM 248. Offered annually in the fall semester. Also counts toward biomolecular science concentration.
Prerequisite: CHEM 126 or CH/BI 126 or permission of instructor.

CHEM 248: Organic Chemistry II

This course is a continuation of CHEM 247 topics. Chemistry 248 delves into the chemistry of functional groups, especially those that play a role in the reactivity of biomolecules such as carbohydrates, lipids, proteins ,and nucleic acids. Together, CHEM 247 and CHEM 248 provide a full treatment of introductory organic chemistry. Offered annually in the spring semester. Also counts toward environmental studies major (natural science emphasis) and biomolecular science concentration.
Prerequisite: CHEM 247 or permission of instructor.

CHEM 252: Organometallic Chemistry

Students study the structure, bonding, and reactions of compounds containing metal-carbon bonds. Special topics include applications of organometallic chemistry to the synthesis of organic compounds, homogeneous catalysis, and biochemistry. Examples illustrate organometallic chemistry as a bridge between organic and inorganic chemistry. Students use bibliographic and electronic searching software to prepare research papers based on the current literature. Offered during January Term in alternate years.
Prerequisite: CHEM 247.

CHEM 253: Synthesis Laboratory I (0.25)

This laboratory course introduces students to the synthesis and characterization of organic, organometallic and inorganic compounds and serves as a general introduction to green chemistry. Students purify the materials they produce by techniques such as chromatography and characterize them using optical rotation measurements, infrared spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Students attend one three-hour laboratory each week. P/N only. Offered annually in the fall semester. Also counts toward biomolecular science concentration.
Prerequisite: previous or concurrent registration in CHEM 247.

CHEM 254: Synthesis Laboratory II (0.25)

This course is a continuation of CHEM 253. Students gain more experience with techniques used in CHEM 253 and in addition use gas chromatographic/mass spectrometric analyses. Students attend one three-hour laboratory each week. P/N only. Offered annually in the spring semester. Also counts toward environmental studies major (natural science emphasis) and biomolecular science concentration.
Prerequisites: CHEM 253 and previous or concurrent registration in CHEM 248.

CHEM 255: Analytical Chemistry

Students not only investigate the theory of modern analytical chemistry, but also examine the statistical treatment of errors, equilibrium, activities, acid/base chemistry, spectroscopy, electrochemistry, and separations. The accompanying lab course, CHEM 256, illustrates the topics discussed in CHEM 255. Students taking this course use computers for solving problems. Offered each semester. Also counts toward environmental studies major (all emphases) and environmental studies and business and management studies concentrations.
Prerequisites: CHEM 126 or CH/BI 126 or permission of the instructor, and concurrent registration in CHEM 256.

CHEM 256: Analytical Laboratory (0.25)

Students enrolled in this lab course practice techniques of modern analytical chemistry using state-of-the-art instrumentation, including pH meters, liquid chromatographs, and a variety of spectrophotometers. Data acquisition via computer-interfaced instrumentation and electronic record-keeping is emphasized. Students practice and develop group skills by working in "companies" throughout the semester. Students attend one four-hour laboratory per week. P/N only. Offered each semester. Also counts toward environmental studies major (all emphases) and environmental studies and business and management studies concentrations.
Prerequisite: concurrent registration in CHEM 255.

CHEM 280: Organic Analysis and Theory

In the laboratory, students investigate and identify organic compounds, singly and in mixtures. Lectures and discussion sessions investigate various spectroscopic methods and their applications to the elucidation of the structure of organic compounds. Offered during January Term.
Prerequisites: CHEM 248 and CHEM 254.

CHEM 294: Academic Internship

CHEM 297: Independent Research (0.25, 0.50, 1.00)

Independent research is offered for students dedicated to an in-depth research experience. Emphasis is placed on the iterative process of experimentation and analysis. Students interested in independent research may enroll in CHEM 297 or CHEM 398. Each course requires a faculty supervisor, who will make the decision as to which course is appropriate. May be taken more than once. Pass or No Pass (P/N) only (may not be taken for a grade). Offered each term.
Prerequisite: permission of the instructor.

CHEM 298: Independent Study

CHEM 357: Physical Laboratory (0.25)

Students perform experiments that illustrate the principles of physical chemistry and utilize modern instrumentation. Students characterize the thermodynamic properties of a biopolymer, perform spectroscopic measurements of molecular energy levels, calculate quantum mechanical quantities using computer workstations, and investigate the thermodynamics and kinetics of chemical reactions. Students also develop their scientific writing skills by preparing reports in the style of scientific publications. Students attend one four-hour laboratory per week. P/N only. Offered each semester.
Prerequisite: concurrent registration in CHEM 371.

CHEM 360: Medicinal Chemistry

In this course students gain an appreciation for the drug development process, including how natural products are isolated and utilized as starting points for drug development, how molecular structure relates to biological activity, and how research into the mechanism of disease leads to the targeted development of drugs. Offered alternate years during January Term. Also counts toward biomolecular science concentration.
Prerequisite: CHEM 248.

CHEM 371: Physical Chemistry

Students delve further into the topics of kinetics, thermodynamics and atomic and molecular structure that were introduced in the first-year courses, with an emphasis on the mathematical aspects of chemistry. Specific topics include reaction mechanisms, the laws of thermodynamics, statistical thermodynamics, equilibrium, quantum mechanics, spectroscopy, and molecular orbital theory. Offered each semester.
Prerequisites: CHEM 126 or CH/BI 126 or permission of instructor and concurrent registration in CHEM 357; MATH 126 or MATH 128; previous completion of PHYS 124 or PHYS 130 is recommended.

CHEM 373: Experimental Biochemistry Lab (0.25)

This lab course is highly recommended to enhance the study of biochemistry and as preparation for further research in biochemistry and related fields. The course focuses on the isolation, purification, manipulation, and characterization of proteins, DNA, and RNA. The course aims to provide continuity in experimentation that is investigative in nature. Emphasis is placed on the collection, interpretation, and presentation of data. P/N only. Offered each semester. Also counts toward neuroscience and biomolecular science concentrations.
Prerequisite: previous or concurrent registration in CHEM 379.

CHEM 375: Advanced Laboratory (0.25)

Students work on special projects during one afternoon of laboratory per week. Each student must have the sponsorship of a staff member. P/N only. Offered each semester. May be repeated if topic is different.

CHEM 378: Instrumental Analysis Laboratory (0.25)

Students explore how instrumentation is used to study analytical applications, problem solving, and how people and instruments operate together to investigate chemical questions. Specific lab experiences include interfacing chemical instruments with computers and subsequent signal processing, mass spectrometry, electrochemistry, and various spectroscopic (AA, ICP, UV) and separation techniques. Students attend one four-hour laboratory per week. A laboratory robot is used for sample preparation and analysis. P/N only. Offered annually in the fall semester.
Prerequisite: concurrent registration in CHEM 382.

CHEM 379: Biochemistry I

This course presents fundamental biological processes at the molecular level and serves as a general introduction to biochemistry. Topics include the structure and function of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and nucleic acids, enzyme catalysis and regulation, bioenergetics and an introduction to carbohydrate metabolism. Subsequent enrollment in CHEM 385 is recommended for students desiring greater breadth and depth in the subject. Offered each semester. Also counts toward biology major and neuroscience and biomolecular science concentrations.
Prerequisite: CHEM 248.

CHEM 382: Instrumental Analysis

Students study how an instrument functions mechanically, mathematically, optically, and electronically, and then how its parts are linked together. Topics covered include basic electronics and computer interfacing, spectrophotometric instruments, mass spectrometers, electrochemical instrumentation, and various separation methods. Offered annually in the fall semester.
Prerequisites: CHEM 255 and CHEM 256; previous or concurrent enrollment in PHYS 125 or PHYS 131 is recommended; concurrent registration in CHEM 378 is required.

CHEM 384: Bioanalytical Chemistry

This course introduces the fundamentals of bioanalytical chemistry and the application of modern analysis techniques to biological samples. Current clinical applications and examples of biological problems supplement lecture material. Daily lectures are closely integrated with laboratory experiences. Topics include different types of chromatography used to separate biological mixtures in various ways, 1D- and 2D-gel electrophoresis, capillary electrophoresis, radiochemical and immunological assays, centrifugation techniques, and biological mass spectrometry. Offered during January Term in alternate years. Also counts toward biomolecular science concentration.
Prerequisites: CHEM 255 or CHEM 379 or permission of instructor.

CHEM 385: Biochemistry II

This course builds depth of biochemical understanding upon the foundation laid in CHEM 379. Contents may include selected topics in catabolic and anabolic metabolism, integration and regulation of metabolism, photosynthesis and biochemical genetics. In addition, students will gain experience with the primary literature. Offered annually in the spring semester. Also counts toward biomolecular science concentration.
Prerequisite: CHEM 379.

CHEM 386: Advanced Inorganic Chemistry

This course examines how modern theories of chemical bonding are applied to an understanding of the chemistry of the elements of the periodic table. Students explore chemical structures and spectra on the basis of molecular symmetry and group theory. Topics covered include inorganic reactions, chemical periodicity, acid-base systems, coordination compounds, organometallic compounds, nonmetal chemistry, and cluster compounds. Offered annually in the spring semester.
Prerequisite: CHEM 248.

CHEM 388: Advanced Organic Chemistry

This course explores the subject of organic chemistry at a greater depth and breadth than in CHEM 247 and CHEM 248. Topics may include analysis of reaction mechanisms, reaction kinetics, and reaction thermodynamics. Particular attention is paid to the interdependent relationship between experimental and theoretical results. Textbook subjects are augmented by readings from the primary research literature. Offered alternate years in the spring semester.
Prerequisite: CHEM 248.

CHEM 390: The Literature of Chemistry (0.25)

Students explore the literature of chemistry in a seminar setting. Experience is gained in reading, discussing, and presenting chemistry-related results from the current scientific literature. Each section has a distinct topical focus selected by the chemistry faculty from suggestions made by junior chemistry majors during the spring of the previous year. P/N only. Offered annually in the spring semester.
Prerequisite: open to senior chemistry majors only.

CHEM 391: Selected Topics in Chemistry

The field of chemistry is constantly expanding into new frontiers. This course provides an in-depth study of advanced topics that are chosen with attention to student interest and available staff. Recent topics include biophysical chemistry and environmental chemical analysis.Topics are announced prior to registration for the term; see the current class and lab schedule. May be repeated if topic is different. Also counts toward environmental studies major (all emphases) and concentration when taught with environmental science focus and approved by chair.
Prerequisite: permission of instructor.

CHEM 394: Academic Internship

CHEM 396: Directed Undergraduate Research

This course provides a comprehensive research opportunity, including an introduction to relevant background material, technical instruction, identification of a meaningful project, and data collection. The topic is determined by the faculty member in charge of the course and may relate to his/her research interests. Offered based on department decision. May be offered as a 1.00 credit course or .50 credit course.
Prerequisite: determined by individual instructor.

CHEM 398: Independent Research

Related Course

BMOLS 201 Explorations in Biomolecular Science (0.25)

Chair, 2023-2024

Mary Walczak

Professor of Chemistry

chemistry education; analytical and physical chemistry; surface science

Douglas J. Beussman (On leave 2023-24)

Professor of Chemistry

analytical area - mass spectrometry; chemical instrumentation; proteomics; forensic science; bioanalytical

Anna Brezny (On leave spring 2023-24)

Assistant Professor of Chemistry

Maetzin Cruz Reyes

Visiting Instructor of Chemistry

Brice Erickson

Visiting Assistant Professor of Chemistry

Peter J. Gittins

Assistant Professor of Chemistry

Paul T. Jackson

Professor of Chemistry and Environmental Studies

green chemistry; environmental chemistry; water quality; sustainability

Cassandra Joiner

Assistant Professor of Chemistry

chemical biology and protein biochemistry

Kayla Lantz

Visiting Assistant Professor of Chemistry

Laura L. Listenberger

Professor of Biology and Chemistry

lipid biochemistry; cell and molecular biology

Elodie Marlier

Associate Professor of Chemistry

inorganic chemistry

Greg W. Muth

Associate Professor of Chemistry

biochemistry

William P. Roberts

Assistant Professor of Chemistry

organic chemistry

Rodrigo Sánchez González

Associate Professor of Chemistry

physical chemistry; laser diagnostics; thermal non-equilibrium systems

Jeff J. Schwinefus

Professor of Chemistry; Edolph A. Larson and Truman E. Anderson, Sr. Chair of Chemistry

physical and biophysical chemistry