Chemistry

About the Chemistry Department

The Chemical Sciences are a diverse group of studies that range from the practical aspects found in our daily lives to the highly theoretical treatment of chemical systems by the methods of quantum mechanics. The formulation of fragrances; synthesis of polymers, drugs and dyes; analyses of ores, foods and pesticides; study of air pollution and environmental hazards; and the calculations of energy values of molecular orbitals are some examples of the scope of chemistry. Chemistry deals with the study of matter, its properties and transformations and with the factors underlying changes of these substances. It is a central science because its principles underlie not only the practical but also nearly every study wherever matter is concerned. The study of chemistry has intrinsic value for chemists, biochemists, a vast array of biomedical specialists and those interested in the fundamental nature of matter.

The primary aim of the chemistry curriculum is to provide students with a solid foundation for understanding chemistry. The program emphasizes the development of fundamental concepts. It is necessarily rigorous. It calls upon students to think critically, logically and creatively. The Department believes that students learn chemistry best by doing chemistry. Associated with each of the major courses is a well-equipped and designed laboratory. Students learn to perform and design chemical experiments, to use modern instrumentation (including SEM, NMR, FT-IR, GC, GC-MS and AA) and to experience chemical phenomena for themselves. Students at the junior and senior levels are encouraged to do research. These programs provide an excellent opportunity for students to become completely immersed into the discipline of chemistry. The department offers degrees in both Chemistry and Biochemistry.

Two degree programs are offered to meet the diversity of career objectives of chemistry students.

The Bachelor of Arts degree program is recommended for students interested in secondary education science teaching and for those interested in a career in the health-care related professions (medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, etc.) and the paramedical laboratory specialties. It is important that the student consult closely with the department advisor, particularly in the selection of proper electives to satisfy entrance requirements of the various professional schools. The prospective secondary school teacher will also consult with the Department of Education.

The Bachelor of Science degree is recommended for those who seek employment as a chemist/biochemist or who intend to study chemistry in graduate school. Research is required for the B.S. degree.

The John B. O’Hara Chemical Sciences Institute

Providing an intensive experience in chemical sciences, the O’Hara Institute awards eight credits in general chemistry. It involves the student in classroom and laboratory work, seminars and various extracurricular activities of the university summer session. All students who will be freshmen at the university in the fall are eligible to apply. Those selected for the Institute normally receive a scholarship covering room, board and tuition. Potential Chemistry and Biochemistry majors are strongly encouraged to participate in the O’Hara program to allow more time for research and electives. On-line O’Hara applications are due by April 1 and scholarship award letters are mailed around April 8.

The O’Hara Institute also supports undergraduate research at the university through scholarships for research during the summer. University students interested in summer research should express an interest before May 1st by talking with each departmental faculty member about the faculty member’s research focus.

Basic Requirements for the Chemistry Degrees

1. B.A. degree: 33 credit hours in chemistry to include: Chemistry 1303/1103, 1304/1104, 2414/2014, 3320, 3321/3121, 3322/3122, 3331/3131, 3335/3135, 3151, 4153. Also, Biology 1311/1111; Physics 2311/2111, 2312/2112; Math 1404, 1411.
2. B.S. degree: 45 credits in chemistry including 33 hours as indicated for the B.A. degree plus Chemistry 3332/3132, 4454 and four credits of student research. Also Biology 1311/1111; Physics 2311/2111, 2312/2112; Math 1404, 1411.
3. B.S. degree in Biochemistry: 38 credits in chemistry to include: Chemistry 1303/1103, 1304/1104, 2414/2014, 3321/3121, 3322/3122, 3151, 3331/3131, 3335/3135, 3336/3136, 4153 and four credits of student research. Also Biology 1311/1111, 1312/1112 and two selections from 3325/3125, 3327/3127, 3350 4328/4128 and 4338; Physics 2311/2111, 2312/2112; Math 1404, 1411.

A grade of C- or above in a prerequisite or continuing course is required for enrollment in an ensuing chemistry course. This requirement may be waived by permission of the instructor. Chemistry and biochemistry majors are encouraged to take additional courses (e.g., advanced organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, the second semester of physical chemistry for biochemistry majors) beyond the specified required courses. Selection of a foreign language depends upon background, interest and future plans. For courses taken off-campus, a passing score on the appropriate American Chemical Society standardized exam is required for the course to transfer as an equivalent University of Dallas course.

Comprehensive Examination

All Chemistry and Biochemistry majors must pass a general written comprehensive examination, which is given early in the spring semester of the senior year. The examination consists of questions in general chemistry, analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry and biochemistry. A study guide is available from the Department. Students earn a pass with distinction, pass, low pass, or failure.

Degrees in Chemistry

Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry

Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry

4 + 1 Programs in Engineering

Chemistry Course Information

Courses in Chemistry