Chemistry and Physics

Department Chairperson: Kristy Mardis

The Department of Chemistry, Physics, and Engineering Studies offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry. The general goal of the chemistry program is to prepare students for scientific careers in industry, government, and education, as well as for advanced study in chemistry or a related discipline, such as biochemistry, medicine, forensic science, dentistry, patent law, or pharmacy. The chemistry program aids students in developing the following:

A broad foundation in the theory, principles, and history of chemistry.
Skills in analytical reasoning and problem solving.
Necessary laboratory, safety, and literature skills.
Effective oral and written communication skills, including notebook-keeping, graphing, writing laboratory reports, using computers for data analysis, and conducting research presentations.
An understanding of the impact of chemistry on industry, society, and the environment, and an appreciation of the roles and responsibilities of chemists in today’s world.

The Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry consists of five options:

Students following the Chemistry Option (CHEM) prepare for research, industrial, and governmental careers or for graduate study in chemistry or related fields. Students completing this option will receive a degree certified by the American Chemical Society.
The Industrial Chemistry Option (CHMI) serves students preparing for positions in industry or in technical sales.
Students who wish to prepare for careers in biomedical research or to gain admission to medical, dental, or pharmacy school usually follow the Biochemistry Option (CHMB).
Students who are pre-admitted to the pharmacy school as incoming first year students will follow the CHMP option. Students in this option will receive their B.S. in chemistry after successful completion of their first year of pharmacy school.
Completion of the Secondary Teaching Option in Chemistry qualifies students for an Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with an endorsement for teaching Science-Chemistry for grades 9-12. Licensure requires the successful completion of the ACT or SAT (see College of Education Handbook), Science-Chemistry Content Area test and edTPA. The Secondary Teaching Program is accredited by the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) and meets Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) standards in science education.

Assessment is required by the university and is an integral part of the chemistry program. Assessment results are used to guide revisions in our instruction and improve student learning and attitudes about science. It is expected that students take all examinations and complete all surveys that are administered as part of the assessment schedule for the program. Copies of our assessment schedule, as well aspast reports, are available from the department chairperson. A summary of our assessment efforts is available on the department web page.

The department offers minor sequences in chemistry, physics, and physical science for students majoring in other fields.