CHEMISTRY AND BIOCHEMISTRY MAJOR

Chemistry is primarily concerned with matter, energy and their interactions. Chemists do a wide variety of things, including the following: They make new substances, including new materials and medicines; they design new ways to make known compounds; they isolate and determine chemical structures of naturally occurring substances; they elucidate the chemical bases of biological processes; they attempt to explain the changes matter undergoes; develop and apply analytical techniques for criminal investigations and environmental problems; they sell chemicals, teach chemistry and apply chemical knowledge to solve other societal and technological problems.

Chemists are concerned about the effect their work and technology have on society and on individuals. They are in the forefront of efforts to make sure that technology serves humankind rather than vice versa. The curriculum is designed to serve persons desiring to enter a career in chemistry, biochemistry or science education, as well as those interested in pursuing further study in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, engineering and the other sciences.

To qualify for admission to the major, a student must have a minimum 2.5 grade point average in SPU chemistry courses.

Continuing students and advance transfers should consult the SPU Undergraduate Catalog.

B.S. IN CHEMISTRY
67 credits in chemistry, including 47 upper-division; an additional 15 credits in math and 15 in physics
This course of study is recommended for a professional degree in chemistry or for those interested in doing graduate and other advanced work in chemistry, certain aspects of molecular biology, toxicology and forensic science. It is guided by recommendations of the American Chemical Society and should prepare the student for graduate work in chemistry or for employment as a chemist. In order to complete this degree in four years, generally a student should begin with CHM 1211 and MAT 1225 in the first quarter of the freshman year.

* Most students would also take CHM 1211, but well prepared students do not need it. **Excluding CHM 1100, 1110, and 1330; undergraduate research is a strongly recommended elective.

Physics for Science and Engineering
For students planning graduate studies in chemistry, additional mathematics (e.g., MAT 2228, MAT 2375 and MAT 2401) may be recommended by the advisor.

A reading knowledge of German or French is desirable for those who plan to do graduate work in chemistry. All students are urged to seek advising by a member of the chemistry/biochemistry faculty as early in their programs as possible.

B.A. IN CHEMISTRY
52 credits in chemistry, including 32 upper-division; an additional 15 credits in mathematics and 15 credits in physics. This option is suited for students preparing for medical or dental school, careers in medical technology, pharmacy or related fields, or to teach chemistry at the secondary level. Those interested in careers in medicine, dentistry or other health related fields should refer to "Pre-Professional Health Programs."

Most students would also take CHM 1211, but well-prepared students do not need it. * Can substitute MAT 1234 and 1235 for these two courses.

General Physics
B.S. in BIOCHEMISTRY
72 credits in chemistry and biology, including 59 upper-division in biology and chemistry; an additional 20 credits in mathematics and 15 credits in physics

The molecular aspects of the life sciences call for an interdisciplinary course of study in chemistry and biology, plus background support in physics and mathematics. This degree prepares students for graduate study in biochemistry and molecular biology. Biochemistry students interested in health sciences should refer to the Pre-Professional Health Sciences section on page 173 of the Catalog. In order to complete this degree in four years, generally a student should begin with CHM 1211 and MAT 1225 in the first quarter of the freshman year.

Chemical Education. Students preparing for the teaching profession at the elementary level should take at least CHM 1100 or CHM 1211. (For general science major requirements in elementary teaching, see the School of Education listing in this Catalog.) For junior high level a supporting endorsement provides an appropriate basis. A supporting endorsement can be obtained by completing a minor including CHM 1212, 2540, 3371, 3372 and 3225. CHM 3401 and CHM 4361 are also recommended. See School of Education for a definite description of the supporting endorsement. Students preparing for a secondary certificate should complete the requirements for a B.A. in chemistry including at least two quarters of physical chemistry.

Pre-Professional Health. The B.S. in biochemistry, or the B.S. or B.A. in chemistry including biochemistry courses, provide preparation for professional education in medicine, dentistry and similar health related careers. See the Pre-Professional Health section of the Catalog.

Chemistry Courses. Click here for a complete list of Chemistry courses and course descriptions.