Chemistry

Overview
Chemistry is the study of matter and energy. Chemistry involves the study of many materials and processes including acids and bases, redox materials for batteries and fuel cells, organic and biochemical substances, and the rate and extent of chemical reactions. More and more there is a greater convergence of the areas of chemistry, physics and biology in the areas of biophysics and nanoscience. The study of chemistry provides additional knowledge and tools necessary for a deeper understanding of the physical universe.
It is possible to earn a Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts, Associate of Science degree or a minor in Chemistry. These programs are designed to provide theoretical foundations and practical experiences in all of the major areas of chemistry including analytical, organic, physical, and biochemistry.
Each student works with a faculty mentor in completing a research project prior to graduation. In these projects students are able to more fully develop and showcase their knowledge and understanding of chemistry as they seek to answer unique questions. We are proud of the fact that many of the projects result in publications in professional chemical journals and/or presentations at regional chemistry conferences.
We are proud of our strong student organizations for chemistry in which students majoring in chemistry and other areas in science can interact with each other outside of the classroom. Students can become involved with the Student Affiliates of the American Chemical Society and, upon qualification, Gamma Sigma Epsilon – National Chemistry Honor Society. CMU is proud of the fact many graduates have gone on to distinguish themselves in chemistry including two graduates who were president of the American Chemical Society.
What skills and abilities do I need to excel in this degree?
In order to excel in chemistry students need a healthy sense of curiosity. They need to have the desire to ask the fundamental question, “Why?” Along with a sense of curiosity, it is very helpful for students to have good math and computer science skills – especially in the areas of algebra, word processing, and spreadsheets.
What skills can I expect to develop through this degree?
As a chemistry major, students will develop a deeper fundamental understanding of chemical theory. They will develop and hone their analytical and problem solving skills as they work in class and in the laboratory. In lab, they will gain hands on experience with traditional experiments in synthesis and analysis as well as current instrumental methods of analysis. Finally, students will develop written and oral communication skills particularly as they participate in research projects and the science seminar program.
What I will learn
Chemistry majors will have a thorough comprehension of the fundamental concepts and scientific theories of Chemistry. Majors will use critical and analytical thinking to solve both theoretical and experimental problems. Majors should be able to safely design and conduct an experiment, collect and analyze data, properly document procedures and data, identify sources of error, interpret results and make relevant connections to other areas in chemistry and other science disciplines. Majors will clearly articulate experimental and theoretical chemical concepts and conclusions both formally and informally.
What opportunities are there for internships or other hands-on learning experiences?
CMU Chemistry majors have been able to participate in diverse internship experiences including those at a local ethanol production plant, water treatment plants, swimming pool management, and Kraft foods. In addition, several students have been invited to go to universities including Northwestern, Kansas University, and the University of Arkansas to participate in summer research projects gaining invaluable experience and expertise in particular areas of chemistry.
What are some possible entry-level careers with a degree in this field?
Some potential entry-level careers include teaching, crime lab analyst, environmental health and safety specialist, lab chemist in chemical production, chemical analysis, perfumery, food production, and environmental testing.
In addition, students routinely continue their education in graduate programs earning Master’s and PhD degrees in chemistry and biochemistry. They also go on to successfully complete professional programs in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, and pharmacy.
What are some CMU graduates with this degree doing?
Current CMU chemistry graduates are teaching in area high schools, attending graduate school and medical school. Others are working professionally as chemists in the Missouri State Highway Patrol crime lab and for Sigma-Aldrich chemical company – a world wide leader in biochemical products and compounds.
Other items to note
INSTRUMENTATION AVAILABLE FOR STUDENT USE:
Current chemistry students have hands-on access to instrumentation including a gas and high performance liquid chromatographic systems, a Nicole Fourier Transform infrared spectrophotometer, Ocean Optics UV-Vis and fluorescence spectrophotometers, an atomic absorption spectrometer, a Karl Fischer coulometric titrator, a capillary electrophoresis system, Pine electrochemical instrumentation, and Calculator-Based Laboratory systems with a wide variety of accompanying sensors.

 

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