Chemistry

Faculty

Clifford E. Harris, chair and professor.
B.S., 1991, California State University, Chico; Ph.D., 1997, University of California, Santa Cruz. Appointed 1997.

Craig R. Bieler, professor.
B.S., 1986, Juniata College; Ph.D., 1992, University of Pittsburgh. Appointed 1995.

Andrew N. French, professor.
B.A., 1986, Ohio Wesleyan University; Ph.D., 1992, University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign. Appointed 1997.

Lisa B. Lewis, professor.
B.S., 1989, King’s College; M.S., 1992, University of Pittsburgh; Ph.D., 1994, University of California, Irvine. Appointed 1995.

Vanessa P. McCaffrey, associate professor.
B.S., 1996, McNeese State University; Ph.D., 2001, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Appointed 2003.

Kevin M. Metz, associate professor.
B.S., 2001, Alma College; Ph.D., 2007, University of Wisconsin—Madison. Appointed 2008.

Christopher E. Rohlman, associate professor.
B.S., 1984, Oakland University; Ph.D., 1989, University of Michigan. Appointed 2001.

Craig N. Streu, assistant professor.
B.S., 2004, Albion College; Ph.D., 2009, University of Pennsylvania. Appointed 2015.

Introduction

The Chemistry Department has three major objectives: (1) To provide a strong major within a liberal arts framework for those entering the profession of chemistry, biochemistry, or preparing for graduate work; (2) to provide cognate backgrounds in chemistry for biology majors, Premedical and pre-dental students, medical technologists, dieticians, science educators and others who may require chemistry; (3) to provide non-science majors with sufficient background to understand advances in technology, environmental implications of new laws, drug problems and health advances.

Independent study is encouraged both as a part of formal course work and in undergraduate research projects. Faculty work closely with students in research areas of mutual interest. Cooperation with other science departments provides opportunities for interdepartmental studies. Majors are strongly encouraged to balance their science training with courses in the arts and humanities.

Chemistry Department Website

Career Opportunities

In addition to professional work and graduate study in chemistry or biochemistry, a major can establish a foundation for future careers in a number of fields: e.g., engineering, medicine and other health-related fields, law and technically related businesses. Graduate and professional schools in the medical sciences require a strong background in chemistry.

Departmental Policy on Advanced Placement Credit

The following is the Chemistry Department’s policy regarding Advanced Placement (AP) credit.

Students who earn a 4 or 5 on the AP exam in chemistry may receive one unit of credit for CHEM 121 , which will count toward the chemistry or biochemistry major or chemistry minor.
Students who earn a 5 on the AP exam have the option to enroll directly in CHEM 211 .
Students who earn a 4 on the AP exam must consult with chemistry faculty on the appropriate first chemistry course at Albion College.
Students may receive one unit of credit for either a 4 or 5 on the AP exam or for successful completion of CHEM 121 , but not both.

Majors and Minors

The Chemistry Department offers two majors-chemistry and biochemistry. The chemistry major requires a minimum of ten units, and the biochemistry major requires a minimum of nine and one-half units in chemistry, plus appropriate cognate courses. Either major is appropriate for students interested in advanced study in chemistry or biochemistry or for careers in other fields such as medicine and health sciences, law, business or education. Consult a member of the Chemistry Department for suggestions of appropriate courses for graduate school preparation.

In either major, the timing of the course sequence is crucial, and students should consult with a member of the Chemistry Department as early as possible in the planning of their major.

Programs

Major

Minor