Chemistry has often been referred to as “The Central Science.” Knowledge of the properties and behavior of atoms and molecules is crucial to our understanding of medicine, biological systems, neuroscience, nanotechnology, environmental science, and myriad other areas. All of the traditional subfields of chemistry — analytical chemistry, biochemistry, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, and physical chemistry, as well as environmental chemistry, computational chemistry, astrochemistry, and nanochemistry — are represented in the course offerings and opportunities for student-faculty collaborative research.
Learning Goals for Chemistry Students
Our learning goals for chemistry students are focused on six major areas:
Knowledge
- Predict the properties of atoms, molecules, and materials from information about their structure.
- Characterize (quantitatively and qualitatively) interactions of light with matter.
- Predict and explain the outcome of chemical reactions by applying kinetic and thermodynamic principles.
Problem Solving
- Develop testable hypotheses, design and execute experiments, analyze data, and draw appropriate conclusions.
- Evaluate and report data using appropriate visual and statistical methods.
- Utilize appropriate instrumentation to solve chemical problems.
- Apply, develop, and critically evaluate the validity of models (computational, mathematical, and abstract) to make predictions.
- Integrate theory and experiments to explain chemical phenomena.
Scientific Literacy
- Retrieve, critically evaluate, and properly cite technical articles from the chemical literature.
- Communicate effectively through formal and informal means to chemists and to the broader population.
- Connect chemical principles to contemporary issues.
Safety
- Understand, and practice safe laboratory techniques to minimize risk in the lab.
- Critically evaluate safety protocols and suggest improvements.
Ethics
- Demonstrate high standards of professional conduct, including data integrity, proper attribution of work, and reproducibility.
- Appreciate the impact of chemists in contributing to and addressing societal problems.
- Engage in respectful discourse regarding controversial topics related to science.
Teamwork
- Work effectively in diverse groups to solve scientific problems.
- Gain proficiency in serving as a leader and as an effective team member.