Chemistry, B.A.

Program Director: Ken Cheung, 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.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate understanding of moral/ethical/ environmental issues based on a Christian world- view.
   1. Involvement in Central Valley and world health/environmental issues.
   2. Good stewardship of natural resources.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of content and ability to communicate it.
   1. Basic understanding of fundamental chemical concepts.
   2. Lab report writing skills (abstract/ introduction/procedure/data analysis/conclusion).
   3. Participation in a research project or internship.
   4. Presentation of research results in a poster and/or round-table session.
3. Exercise critical thinking.
   1. Problem solving skills and clear presentation of solutions.
   2. Ability to read/interpret/analyze technical papers.
   3. Ability to develop research questions
4. Demonstrate proficiency of technical skills.
   1. Basic lab techniques.
   2. Organic lab techniques.
   3. Use of instruments.
   4. Quantitative analysis skills.
   5. Use of computer programs for data analysis.
5. Preparation for post-graduation.
   1. Informed citizen.
   2. Secondary teaching.
   3. Research lab positions.
   4. Health profession schools (medical, dental, pharmacy, physical therapy, veterinary).
   5. Graduate school in chemistry.

Locations Offered

Main Campus Fresno