Mar 28, 2024  
2013-2014 Academic Catalog 
    
2013-2014 Academic Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Biochemistry, Chemistry and Engineering Science


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Daniel W. Black, Chair; Christine A. DeVries; Denis P. Drolet; Shawn M. Ellerbroek; LeAnn E. Faidley; Leilani L. Zart; Matthew K. 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 the liberal arts education, chemistry and biochemistry courses equip students with an appreciation for science 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- ad off-campus research opportunities and internships provide authentic research and work experiences at the industrial or university level.

 

The goals of the chemistry and biochemistry programs are that students will:

  • Have a command of key concepts in the core chemical disciplines: Analytical, Organic, Inorganic and Physical Chemistry.
  • Be competent in basic chemistry laboratory skills.
  • Be effective evaluators of questions, data analysis/information management, evidenced-based judgments or conclusions, written and verbal communication of scientific ideas, and teamwork.
  • Obtain successful entry into graduate or professional programs or in their chosen field of employment.

Department Recommendations

Students planning graduate study and professional work in chemistry should take CH 113 Principles of Chemistry I , CH 114 Principles of Chemistry II , CH 211 Organic Chemistry I , CH 212 Organic Chemistry II , CH 217 Analytical Chemistry , CH 315 Quantum Chemistry , CH 316 Chemical Thermodynamics and Kinetics , CH 325 Biochemistry , CH 340 Analytical and Physical Measurements , CH 420 Advanced Organic Chemistry , CH 421 Advanced Inorganic Chemistry , CH 450 Independent Study  (or CH 371 Internship ), CH 461 Science Seminar  (½), and
CH 471 Research . Special Topics courses are recommended when offered. Introductory courses in German or French, computer science courses (CS 120 Introduction to Computers and Programming ), and advanced courses in mathematics and physics are also recommended.

Students majoring in chemistry while interested in professional work in medicine should consult with Dr. Shawn Ellerbroek for course recommendations in biology.

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 416 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 Science

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 can afford.

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.

Department Recommendations

Students planning to pursue a master’s degree in engineering should take MA 255 Multivariable Calculus ,
MA 401 Differential Equations , and PHY 204 Classical Physics II  as well as additional advanced mathematics and science courses relevant to the area of specialization sought. Students planning to enter industry directly should take additional courses in economics, business administration, and/or writing. All engineering science majors are strongly encouraged to develop proficiency in a second language at least equivalent to one year of college-level study.

Programs

 

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