2024-25 Undergraduate/Graduate Catalog
Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Engineering Science
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Daniel W. Black, Chair; Christine A. DeVries; Shawn M. Ellerbroek; LeAnn E. Faidley; Murad M. Mahmoud; Leilani L. Zart
Biochemistry/Chemistry
The areas of Biochemistry and Chemistry are central sciences that provide a foundation for success in science-related occupations such as pharmacy, forensic science, environmental studies, drug discovery research, medicine, dentistry, chiropractic, optometry, podiatry, physical therapy, nursing, and education. As part of a liberal arts education, chemistry and biochemistry courses equip students with an appreciation for science that is appropriate for living and working in our modern, technology-driven society.
Experimentation is at the heart of the chemistry and biochemistry majors. On campus, students use modern instrumentation in course work and individual research. On- and off-campus research opportunities and internships provide authentic research and work experiences at the industrial or university level.
Intended Student Learning Outcomes
Biochemistry/Chemistry Majors
Students will:
- demonstrate an understanding of the ethical, global and societal dimensions within the discipline.
- recall and use key concepts of the core chemical disciplines in solving complex chemical problems.
- communicate ideas as part of the scientific process in a professional and effective manner.
- analyze and evaluate scientific information to draw conclusions, answer questions, and formulate hypotheses.
- design experiments using appropriate methods and equipment in adherence with safety standards.
Chemistry - Department Recommendations
Chemistry is a broad field. A course sequence fitting the student’s career objectives should be planned in consultation with the student’s adviser. Graduate schools and professional schools (medical, dental, pharmacy, etc.) may require prerequisites beyond those satisfied by the major.
Programs
Chemistry Teaching
For additional information on teaching majors and endorsements, see Education Department listings.
Biochemistry - Department Recommendations
Students planning graduate study and professional work in biochemistry should take additional advanced courses in biology (BI 221 Cell Biology , BI 305 Microbiology , BI 310 Molecular Biology of Cancer ) and in chemistry (CH 315 Quantum Chemistry , CH 316 Chemical Thermodynamics and Kinetics , CH 340 Analytical and Physical Measurements , CH 420 Advanced Organic Chemistry , and CH 421 Advanced Inorganic Chemistry ).
Students majoring in biochemistry while interested in professional work in medicine should consult with Dr. Shawn Ellerbroek for course recommendations in biology and chemistry.
Programs
Engineering
Students have several options for completing their engineering studies at Wartburg. For students intending to pursue employment directly after graduation, the Engineering, B.S. is recommended and includes options for concentrations. For students with more diverse interests in such areas as pre-law, architecture, or engineering management, the Engineering Science, B.A. may be more suitable. Students are encouraged to work with their adviser to determine which degree program will meet their needs.
Both degree programs are intentionally designed to give students a breadth of competence in the key areas common to all engineering specialties without sacrificing opportunities to explore the wide variety of experiences available through a liberal arts education. In addition, students can increase their depth of knowledge through concentrations in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and/or a minor in engineering management. An interdisciplinary concentration is available for those seeking a depth component that involves a variety of engineering disciplines.
The engineering science major seeks to prepare students for the rapidly evolving world of today. Unlike most engineering programs, this major is intentionally designed to give students a breadth of competence in the key areas common to all engineering specialties without sacrificing opportunities to explore the wide variety of experiences a liberal arts setting offers.
The program is built on a solid foundation in mathematics, physics, and chemistry. Technical course work focuses on common professional practice and developing problem-solving skills in the context of broad areas of engineering analysis.
Program goals:
- Students will master fundamental scientific and technical content and skills.
- Students will acquire an understanding of the ethical, global, and societal dimensions of the profession.
- Students will develop skills in communication, critical thinking, team building, and self-training.
Intended Student Learning Outcomes
Students will:
- master fundamental scientific and technical content and skills
- apply knowledge of math
- apply knowledge of science
- apply knowledge of engineering
- use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice
- conduct experiments
- analyze data
- interpret data
- design experiments
- understand the ethical, global, and societal dimensions of the profession
- demonstrate a knowledge of contemporary issues
- understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global context
- understand the impact of engineering solutions in an economics context
- understand the impact of engineering solutions in an environmental context
- understand the impact of engineering solutions in a societal context
- apply professional ethical responsibility.
- develop skills in communication, critical thinking, team building, and self-training
- recognize the need for life-long learning
- demonstrate an ability to engage in life-long learning
- communicate effectively orally
- communicate effectively in writing
- communication effectively graphically
- function on multidisciplinary teams
- synthesize engineering knowledge to solve open-ended real world problems
- identify engineering problems
- formulate engineering problems
- solve engineering problems
- design a (system, component, or process) to meet desired needs within realistic constraints
Department Recommendations
Students planning to pursue graduate study in engineering should consult with their academic adviser concerning additional advanced mathematics and science courses relevant to their area of specialization. Industry-bound students are encouraged to pursue minors in engineering management, business, creative writing, and/or a foreign language.
Programs
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