Chemistry

Chemistry lies at the heart of modern science. Advances in fields such as molecular biology, environmental science, materials science, and medicinal chemistry are built upon an understanding of chemistry. At Sweet Briar students may earn either a B. A. or B.S. degree in chemistry. We also offer a B.S. degree in biochemistry & molecular biology (BIOC) jointly with the Biology Department. Chemistry courses provide a sound background in chemical principles, and open-ended investigative laboratories teach students to become chemists. These labs present opportunities for students to design their own experiments and experience the excitement of discovery. Beginning in introductory courses, students gain experience with sophisticated, research-quality equipment.

As students progress, projects deal with more complex chemical questions and require hands-on problem-solving and extensive data analysis. Chemistry and BIOC students learn to present their results in both written and oral form. Students are challenged to develop excellent problem-solving skills, both in their coursework and in the laboratory, and to become adept at using professional instrumentation and computer software. The culmination of both the chemistry and the BIOC major is the completion of a semester-long independent project. It is strongly recommended that a student considering a major in chemistry or biochemistry/molecular biology complete CHEM 131, CHEM 132, CHEM 141, CHEM 142, MATH 123, and MATH 124 by the end of her first year. Prospective majors should consult with the department before registering for sophomore courses.

The Chemistry Major (B.A.)

(47-49 semester hours)

Required prerequisites (or exemption by placement):

Required:

Senior Exercise:

Choose 2 of the following courses:

Choose 1 of the following physics sequences:

Sequence A

Sequence B

Note: With permission of the department, one course in physics at the 200, 300, or 400 level or one course in molecular biology at the 300 or 400 level may be used in place of one course in chemistry.

The Chemistry Major (B.S.)

(56 semester hours)

Required prerequisites (or exemption by placement):

Required:

Senior Exercise:

Choose 2 of the following courses:

Recommended:

The Chemistry Minor

(23-24 semester hours)

Required:

Choose either:

AND

OR 1 of the following:

Teacher Licensure

(54 semester hours)

Required: 1. A bachelor of arts degree in chemistry including two courses in physics and courses in mathematics as required by the degree 2. A minimum of 10 credit hours in non-chemistry science courses which must include at least three credit hours in biology and three credit hours in earth science (ENVR 122, 131, or PHYS 113)

Students who seek endorsement in more than one area of science need to complete an additional 18 credit hours in the second field which must include any specific requirements in that field.

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Of all areas of modern science, the disciplines at the interface of biology and chemistry are developing most rapidly. Advances in the related fields of biochemistry and molecular biology have an enormous potential for promoting human knowledge in such diverse fields as medicine and agriculture. Thus the departments of biology and chemistry offer a major in biochemistry and molecular biology to students wishing to enter this exciting area. This program provides excellent preparation for graduate study in biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology and related fields.

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Major (B.S.)

(72 semester hours)

Required:

Senior Exercise:

Choose 1 of the following courses: