Chemistry

Faculty

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

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

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

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

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

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

Craig N. Streu, associate professor.
B.S., Albion College; Ph.D., 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

Majors and Minors

The Chemistry Department offers majors and minors in both chemistry and biochemistry. Both majors require a minimum of ten 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.

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.

Student Learning Outcomes

For all majors and minors, students will demonstrate:

1. Process Skills-

Students will demonstrate process skills such as problem solving, critical thinking, and reflective learning.

2. Literature and Informatics-

Students will demonstrate an ability to search, read, and critically evaluate primary literature, and utilize databases and informatic tools.

3. Experimental Competency-

Students will demonstrate an ability to design experiments, execute experiments safely and ethically, and analyze experimental results.

4. Communication Skills-

Students will demonstrate effective communication skills in both oral and written form.

5. Content Knowledge-

Students will demonstrate fluency in basic chemistry content knowledge.

Departmental Policy on Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate Credit

1. Students with a 4 or 5 on the AP Chemistry exam will receive one unit of CHEM 100X.

2. Students with a 5 on the IB (HL) Chemistry exam will receive one unit of CHEM 100X.

3. Students wishing to accelerate their study of chemistry based on their AP or IB performance should contact a member of the Chemistry faculty to arrange to take a placement test.

Programs

Major

Minor