Chemistry Major

Requirements for the Major in Chemistry
To earn the major in chemistry a student will complete one of the three concentrations (biochemistry, health professions, or professional) below while maintaining a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 within the major. Students double-majoring in chemistry and another science major such as biology or physics should consult with the Chemistry Department chair for specific requirements since some courses taken in one major program may satisfy requirements in the other major.

Professional Concentration
Requirements for the professional concentration include:

 
Eight credits from the following:
CHE341, 37x, 47x or approved courses in any science or mathematics at the 200 level or higher.

Biochemistry Concentration
Requirements for the biochemistry concentration include:

In addition, twelve credits of electives need to be taken.  At least one of the following two courses needs to be included: 

and with the additional credits from the following courses.
BIO312, BIO314, BIO316, BIO321, CHE37x, CHE47x or approved courses or research experiences.

Health Professions Concentration
Chemistry is a popular choice of major for many students entering medicine or other health professions. The chemistry major prepares students to appreciate aspects of human health and disease from the molecular level on up. Chemistry majors develop a strong foundation in health-related areas such as biochemistry, medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology.  A strong proficiency in quantitative reasoning arises from the mathematical emphasis of the major. By completing the chemistry major and selected tracks in the Health Professions Concentration described under “Academic Programs—Health Professions Program,” students are prepared for applying to programs such as medical, optometry, pharmacy, nursing, and physician’s assistant programs.

Contact Dr. Dwight Tshudy, Chemistry Department, Health Professions Committee, for additional information. dwight.tshudygordon.edu

Honors in Chemistry
To earn honors in chemistry a student will complete the professional concentration, including CHE471, 472 Research I, II as the electives, along with 12 credits of coursework from one of the three honors tracks listed below. In addition, the student will write an honors thesis based on work done in CHE471, 472 and make a formal oral presentation of this work. The minimum GPA for honors candidates is 3.5 in the major and 3.0 overall. See department faculty for details.

Requirements for the Double Major with Middle School or Secondary Education
Students pursuing licensure in middle school or secondary education and chemistry will substitute CHE341 Biochemistry for CHE411 Inorganic Chemistry, and may use specific education courses (12 credits) to satisfy the requirement of eight credits of chemistry electives for the professional concentration. See Chemistry and Education Department chairs for other required courses.