Chemistry (B.S.)

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

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

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The student learning outcomes for the degree are as follows:

• Mathematical and quantitative reasoning

Students 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.

• 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 (for premedicine and predental options)

– 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

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The Bachelor of Science with a major in chemistry program is appropriate for premedical and predental students and as preparation for other careers. With appropriate electives and further education, this program allows you to combine chemistry with other fields of study that support careers such as geochemist, computer scientist, biologist, science librarian, science writer, chemical salesperson, patent attorney, industrial chemist, or environmental chemist.

To earn the B.S. with a major in chemistry, in addition to satisfying the requirements of IPFW (see Part 8 ) and the College of Arts and Sciences (see Part 4 ), you must complete the following courses with a cumulative GPA of 2.00 or higher in all CHM courses numbered 300 and above: