Chemistry (B.S.C.)

Program: B.S.C.
Department of Chemistry
College of Arts and Sciences

Science Building 496 ~ 260-481-6289 ~ ipfw.edu/chem

The student learning outcomes for the degree are as follows: 

• Mathematical and quantitative reasoning

The student will be able to analyze, synthesize, and comprehend experimental and computational data describing the physical universe.  This skill requires knowledge of mathematical and statistical techniques that can be used analytically and computationally.

• Classical and instrumental laboratory techniques: both analytical and synthetic 

Students will learn precise measuring techniques as well as careful and meticulous record-keeping.  They will master the use of variety of modern instruments and will become proficient in fundamental organic synthetic methods.

• Individual and collaborative problem-solving

The student will develop independent problem-solving skills as well as the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment on complex chemical systems.

• Chemical literature

  The student will learn basic tools and concepts for efficient use of chemical literature, including multiple computerized databases.  The student will also be expected to analyze sources for relevance and authority and to learn how scientific writings are constructed according to style.

• Summary of key concepts

In the teaching of Chemistry from the point-of-view of various sub-disciplines, the following concepts form the core course content.  It should be noted that courses offered by the IPFW Department of Chemistry will include, but are not simply limited to, the following points of emphasis:

• Analytical Chemistry

– Analytical methods (classical and instrumental)
– Sensitivity and detection limits
– Statistical treatment of data

• Biochemistry

– Structure, metabolic relationships, and regulation of biomolecules

• General Chemistry

– Semi-quantitative microscopic model of the physical universe based on macroscopic observations
– Terminology
– Periodic relationships
– Elementary computational skills
– Introductory laboratory skills

• Inorganic Chemistry

– Chemical bonding and structure
– Reactivity, reaction mechanisms, and properties
– Solid state and material science
– Organometallic chemistry
– Spectroscopic determination of structure

• Organic Chemistry

– Chemical bonding and structure including valence bond and molecular orbital theories
– Reactivity, reaction mechanisms, and properties of the important functional groups
– Synthesis
– Spectroscopic determination of structure
– Material science and bio-organic chemistry

• Physical Chemistry
  
  – Mathematical and physical principles that underlie modern Chemistry
  – Detailed understanding of the modern microscopic model of the universe
  – The principal topic areas are:

1. Quantum Chemistry
2. Thermodynamics
3. Statistical mechanics
4. Spectroscopy
5. Kinetics 

The Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (B.S.C.) program helps you prepare for graduate study in chemistry and chemistry-related careers in industry or government. Providing the best preparation for any career involving chemical research, this program fulfills recommendations of the Committee on Professional Training of the American Chemical Society, and graduates are certified to the ACS as having fulfilled its requirements.

To earn the B.S.C., you must fulfill all requirements for the B.S. with a major in chemistry (listed above) and complete the additional courses listed below.