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Chemistry and physics are fundamental sciences that touch every aspect of our lives and the world around us. Chemistry is the study of matter: its chemical and physical properties, the chemical and physical changes it undergoes, and the energy changes that accompany those processes. Chemistry often is referred to as the central science; it rests upon the foundation of mathematics and physics and in turn is the essential basis for the life sciences such as biology and medicine. Chemistry is largely an experimental science, and has applications in such diverse areas of research as the development of new drugs, the search for solutions to problems of environmental pollution, and the derivation of alternative energy sources. Much cutting-edge research in biology and medicine is being carried out at the level of atoms and molecules, the particles of matter upon which the study of chemistry is based.

Physics, too, is the study of matter and energy, viewed from a different perspective. To understand living systems and the universe in which we live requires an understanding of the chemical and physical principles that operate within them.

In addition to offering majors in chemistry, chemistry/secondary education, biochemistry and laboratory science, and minors in chemistry and biophysics, the department fills a significant role for students in other programs through its introductory courses in chemistry and physics. Because of the fundamental roles of chemistry and physics in the biological, environmental, and health sciences, students in these programs benefit from the conceptual, quantitative, problem-solving, and communication skills stressed in the introductory courses, which form the foundation for later courses in the students' majors.

The bachelor of science degree in chemistry stresses the important fundamental aspects of the discipline, including analytical chemistry, biochemistry, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and physical chemistry. Classroom work in each of these essential areas is complemented with laboratory exercises designed to illustrate important chemical principles and provide students with hands-on experience in the important classical and instrumental techniques of chemistry. While the chemistry core courses provide both depth and breadth in the basic areas of chemistry, students also have the opportunity to study selected areas of modern chemistry more intensively in advanced elective courses and in undergraduate research. The department's courses stress the integration of theory and experiment, the development of critical thinking and problem solving skills, and the cultivation of oral and written communication skills. The department's faculty members are highly committed to undergraduate education in general and undergraduate research in particular. One of the strengths of the department's programs is the opportunity it provides for students to become involved in undergraduate research in collaboration with a faculty mentor.

The curriculum is designed to meet the requirements of the American Chemical Society Committee on Professional Training. Students will be well prepared for entry into a variety of laboratory positions or for entry into graduate programs in many areas of science. Chemistry graduates typically are very well prepared for entry into professional programs such as medical, dental, or veterinary schools. The department is well equipped with modern laboratory instrumentation, available to students in laboratory courses and research projects.