undergraduate bulletin - LaGrange College

CHEMISTRY
MISSION STATEMENT
LaGrange College's Chemistry program exists to support student learning through studies in the
field of chemistry, the application of the organized discipline knowledge they gain to solving
complex problems, and in communicating those solutions. Additional purposes of the program
are to provide support to the College and the profession of chemistry through activity in faculty
governance functions, professional organizations and scholarship. The program provides majors
to prepare students for employment in a chemical field or for further studies in professional or
graduate school. Courses provided by the department fulfill the General Education (Core
Curriculum) lab science requirement, are cognates for other majors, and meet admission
requirements for many professional programs.
INTRODUCTION
Chemistry is often referred to as ―the central science,‖ because chemical concepts are used
throughout the other sciences. Therefore, in addition to being a major in its own right, the study
of chemistry is a part of many curricula. The Department of Chemistry focuses its introductory
Chemistry course as an element in a liberal education, a service to other departments, and the
beginning of a comprehensive study of chemistry. The department offers B.A. and B.S. majors
as well as a minor, which can lead to a variety of future occupations. Students with a major in
Chemistry have gone on to traditional pursuits, such as graduate school in chemistry or
biochemistry, pharmacy, medical school, and law school (patent law and corporate law), as well
as becoming laboratory technicians and salespersons for chemistry and related industries.
The B.A. degree offers a broad background in chemistry while allowing ample time for extensive
coursework in other fields. The B.A. is appropriate for those interested in one of the medical or
law-related professions, teaching, or for students desiring the broadest possible education with an
emphasis in natural science. The B.S. program is designed for those going on to graduate school
in a chemically-related field (chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, chemical physics,
environmental science, or forensics) or those seeking employment as chemists after graduation.
The B.S. degree is generally more highly valued at professional schools. While the B.S. degree is
more demanding of a student‘s time, there is sufficient time for electives outside the sciences.
DECLARATION OF MAJOR
Before declaring a major in Chemistry or Biochemistry, a student must have completed the
introductory sequence (CHEM 1101, 1102) at LaGrange College with a C or better in each
course or demonstrated proficiency by achieving 40 th percentile of higher on the ACS
Standardized Examination in General Chemistry or the ACS Standardized Examination in
Organic Chemistry.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES: BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREE IN CHEMISTRY
Students who earn the B.S. degree with a major in Chemistry will be appropriately competent in
the following areas:
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