Chemistry - General Emphasis, B.S.

Department Chair: Alan Thompson, Ph.D.

Overview

The chemistry major provides students with an understanding of the unifying themes, as well as the diversity, of natural and synthetic materials and their importance within the environment and technology. Students are prepared for positions in industry and government or for advanced study in a variety of scientific disciplines.

Students may choose from two-degree programs: the Bachelor of Arts degree or the Bachelor of Science degree. The B.A. degree is appropriate for students who desire greater flexibility in their undergraduate coursework. This flexibility may be used to incorporate a minor, a second major, a study abroad program or additional elective coursework. The B.S. degree is appropriate for those who seek greater depth of foundational coursework in supporting fields, additional breadth within the major and a research capstone along with the option of studying and completing a Biochemistry emphasis.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate understanding of moral/ethical/environmental issues including the stewardship of natural resources related to Chemistry.
2. Understand the major concepts, theories, and experimental evidence of and be able to solve problems in: Analytical Chemistry, Biological Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Physical Chemistry.
3. Develop critical thinking skills and problem-solving approaches using scientific methods to: identify relevant factors to define problems, develop and evaluate methods, employ appropriate statistical analysis and instrumentation, and draw reasonable conclusions.
4. Design and conduct experiments –both individually and in small groups– using appropriate strategies such as: collect, organize, analyze, interpret, and present quantitative & qualitative data and incorporate them into the broader context of health sciences knowledge. 
5. Acquire familiarity with the process of chemical research through the formal participation in an undergraduate research project that involves: project management, methods development, data analysis, and written contribution to the discipline in the form of a presentation or publication.

Locations Offered

Main Campus Fresno