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Chemistry and physics are fundamental sciences that touch every aspect of our lives and the world around us. Chemistry is the study of matter: its chemical and physical properties, the chemical and physical changes it undergoes, and the energy changes that accompany those processes. Chemistry often is referred to as the central science; it rests upon the foundation of mathematics and physics and in turn is the essential basis for the life sciences such as biology and medicine. Chemistry is largely an experimental science, and has applications in such diverse areas of research as the development of new drugs, the search for solutions to problems of environmental pollution, and the derivation of alternative energy sources. Much cutting-edge research in biology and medicine is being carried out at the level of atoms and molecules, the particles of matter upon which the study of chemistry is based.

Physics, too, is the study of matter and energy, viewed from a different perspective. To understand living systems and the universe in which we live requires an understanding of the chemical and physical principles that operate within them.

In addition to offering majors in chemistry, chemistry/secondary education, biochemistry and laboratory science, and minors in chemistry and biophysics, the department fills a significant role for students in other programs through its introductory courses in chemistry and physics.  Because of the fundamental roles of chemistry and physics in the biological, environmental, and health sciences, students in these programs benefit from the conceptual, quantitative, problem-solving, and communication skills stressed in the introductory courses, which form the foundation for later courses in the students' majors.

The laboratory science (LS) major is designed to prepare graduates for work in a variety of modern laboratory settings, ranging from biotechnology labs to quality control labs to academic, medical, or industrial research labs. The program includes a broad spectrum of laboratory courses in chemistry, biochemistry, and biology, so that the graduate will have as comprehensive a repertoire of lab skills as possible. With careful selection of electives, LS graduates wishing to become medical technologists will be well-prepared for acceptance into accredited hospital internship programs in medical technology.  Recent LS graduates have been successful in pursuing careers in industry and post-baccalaureate graduate studies.

** Students may substitute the following courses with department advisor permission: CHE 110 for CHE 150; CHE 111 for CHE 151; CHE 210 or CHE 210G for CHE 250; CHE 211 or CHE 211G; CHE 110 for CHE 210; and/or CHE 111 for CHE 211.

Students in this major can participate in the pre-health graduate school preparation tracks.

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A minimum grade of C- must be achieved in all required science and mathematics courses used toward graduation in laboratory science, and a 2.00 cumulative grade-point average in the sciences is a requirement for graduation.

• Students will be able to describe and apply advanced information and concepts relevant to general laboratory science.
• Students will be able to demonstrate proficiency in safe laboratory practices and use of instrumentation standard to the discipline.
• Students will be able to clearly communicate information in both oral and written forms relevant to general laboratory science.
• Students will be able to work collaboratively in various team settings.
• Students will be able to compete successfully for placement in graduate programs or employment relevant to the field of study.

We offer qualified students the option of graduating with Honors. This includes significant research, scholarship or creative activity under the direction of a faculty member. Interested students should consult with their major advisor. 

See Undergraduate Admissions.

See Undergraduate Admissions.

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees for subsequent years may vary. Other expenses include books and housing. For more information regarding tuition and fees, please consult the Financial Information section of this catalog.