BA in Chemistry

Chemistry, the study of structures and properties of matter, plays an important role in both physical and biological sciences and holds a crucial position in our technologically advanced society. the main objectives of the Chemistry program are: (1)to provide a well-rounded liberal arts education with an insight into the significance of chemistry in everyday life and the enhancement of the quality of our environment; (2) to provide a sound background in the basic fundamentals and techniques of chemistry; and (3) to prepare students to pursue careers in research, teaching, business, industry, medicine, or pharmacy.

Degree Requirements

• Program Credits 40
• Required Courses
  Required courses for major: CH 113, 114, 201, 202, 211, 212, 302, 307, 308, 310, 403, 404. Additional required courses depending on focus: Research focus requires students take CH 402, 406 and 407. Pre-professional focus requires students take CH 410 and 411. Teaching focus requires students take CH 401.
• Required Auxiliary Courses 20 auxiliary credits: BL 106, PY 201, 202, MT 210, 211

Additional Information

The carefully-designed Chemistry program (major and minor) provides a solid background in general, organic, inorganic, analytical, biochemistry, and physical chemistry. Analytical chemistry (CH 308) helps students learn the use of various analytical instruments as well as computer data analysis. Seminar I (CH 401) offers opportunities for chemistry majors to learn the history and philosophy of chemistry and develop an understanding and appreciation for the environment. Seminar II (CH 402) provides students the opportunity to explore chemical phenomena through independent research projects, experimentation, and computer data analysis. Since chemistry is interconnected with physics, biology, and mathematics, students are required to take additional courses in these three areas. A minimum of a “C” (2.0) is required for each course in the Chemistry major or minor. This includes the auxiliary courses. A student earning a grade lower than the minimum acceptable grade in any course in the major or minor may repeat the course only once at Stritch. A student who receives a second unsatisfactory grade in any course in the major or minor will be dismissed from the major or minor field.