Chemistry and Biochemistry Department

The Department of Chemistry offers undergraduate programs leading to the Bachelor of Science degree with programs in chemistry and the following concentrations: chemistry-biochemistry , chemistry-pre-pharmacy , chemistry-forensics , chemistry-medical sciences and certification as a secondary school teacher . The major in chemistry is designed to provide students with a thorough grounding in the fundamental areas of the discipline. Within the core curriculum, students will receive a solid foundation in the basic areas of inorganic, organic, biochemical, physical, and analytical/instrumental chemistry. In addition to this core curriculum, individuals can choose from a selection of elective courses intended to develop a deeper understanding of specific areas. The course of study weds the theoretical and experimental aspects of chemistry through a series of laboratory courses designed to augment classroom work. Chemistry Education 7-12 students seeking Pennsylvania certification should see requirements outlined in the College of Education and Human Services.

Chemistry Features

The chemistry program is certified by the American Chemical Society (ACS). The chemistry major allows for a B.S. as well as concentrations in biochemistry , pre-pharmacy , forensics and medical sciences. Students desiring admissions to medical, dental, veterinary or other professional schools post graduation are encouraged to consider the medical sciences or biochemistry concentrations. Opportunities exist for undergraduate research projects under the direction of individual professors. A research experience during the senior year is strongly encouraged and supported. Students desiring certification by the American Chemical Society must complete the required core curriculum and in addition complete the ACS certification minor. All chemistry majors take a comprehensive exam after completion of their junior year.

Chemistry Career Opportunities

The degree in chemistry affords a variety of career opportunities. It allows students to enter the fields of industry, government, teaching, or advanced study in professional or graduate schools. Industrial or business employment generally involves laboratory testing and research with energy, petrochemical, pharmaceutical, environmental analysis, or agricultural chemical companies. Government agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Agriculture, National Institutes of Health, or law enforcement agencies require chemists for entry level positions. Additionally, there is a strong demand for science teachers in the secondary schools. Chemistry graduates have access to postgraduate programs at major universities. Professional and graduate degrees lead to careers in medicine, dentistry, other health related professions, or to careers in clinical or academic research.

ACS Certification

Shippensburg University offers a program of study in chemistry approved by the American Chemical Society (ACS). This program is designed for students who plan technical careers in industry or government or graduate work in chemistry. All concentrations within the Chemistry B.S. are eligible for ACS certification if all requirements described in this section are met. Any student desiring departmental recommendation for graduate work and certification by the ACS should satisfactorily complete the ACS Certification minor. Additional requirements are mathematics through MAT 212 , a computer skills course meeting the requirements as specified by the department (CSC 103 does not satisfy this requirement), and eight hours of calculus-based physics. A foreign language is recommended but not required. All chemistry majors will take a comprehensive examination in the beginning of the fall semester of their senior year at a time and place designated by the department. A satisfactory performance in all areas of this examination is a requirement for departmental recommendation and ACS certification.

Programs

Major

Minor

Courses

Chemistry