Chemistry Program Learning Objectives

The Chemistry Program Learning Outcomes are structured around nine core competencies across five major themes.  These competencies and themes are intertwined in the chemistry curriculum including both lecture and laboratory settings as well as scholarly activities such as research and internships.  The curriculum and program are driven by student preparedness to meet both academic and industry standards.  To remain in good standing in the chemistry program, students must meet three main areas: maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0 in their courses, maintain a C average in sequential course work and demonstrating proficiency in a capstone project that showcases their comprehensive understanding and application of chemistry.

Theme 1: Scientific and Technical Skills. Chemistry graduates are highly proficient in laboratory techniques and have a strong understanding of scientific ethics. They are trained to perform standard lab procedures safely and effectively, ensuring they meet industry standards. Additionally, graduates adhere to ethical principles in their research and professional conduct, ensuring their work is responsible and ethically sound.

Core Competency 1: Laboratory Skills.  Graduates excel in translating abstract chemical concepts into practical experiments, ensuring that theoretical knowledge informs their hands-on work. Graduates are able to design and conduct experiments that test hypotheses and validate theoretical models. 

Core Competency 2: Scientific Ethics. Chemistry graduates uphold high ethical standards, ensuring the integrity and reproducibility of their research. They conduct experiments responsibly, prioritize safety, and report their findings clearly.

Theme 2: Communication Skills. Graduates are proficient in conveying scientific information clearly and effectively. This includes the ability to write detailed lab reports, research papers, and other scientific documents. Furthermore, graduates excel at explaining complex chemical concepts clearly and engagingly, both in formal presentations and informal discussions. 

Core Competency 3: Effective Writing. Graduates are trained to present their research findings in a concise and precise manner. Writing effectively in this field requires a strong grasp of scientific terminology and an ability to convey data accurately. Graduates continually improved their writing skills to meet the evolving standards of scientific publishing.

Core Competency 4: Oral Communication. Effective oral communication in chemistry is essential for sharing research and fostering collaboration. Graduates present their findings clearly, ensuring that complex concepts are accessible to diverse audiences. Additionally, graduates are prepared to engage with the scientific community and contribute to advancements in the field.

Theme 3: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving. Graduates are equipped with critical thinking and problem-solving skills, enabling them to tackle complex scientific questions and develop original solutions. Graduates have the ability to formulate hypotheses, design experiments, and analyze results; furthermore graduates are able to identify, analyze, and solve complex chemical problems through both theoretical and experimental chemical principles.  

Core Competency 5: Critical Thinking. Chemistry graduates developed the critical thinking skills essential for designing experiments and analyzing data. They are trained to approach problems methodically, evaluate evidence, and consider multiple hypotheses. This rigorous analytical ability enables graduates to make informed decisions and contribute to innovative solutions in the field of chemistry.   

Core Competency 6: Problem Solving.  Chemistry graduates are adept at identifying the causes of issues and developing systematic approaches to address them. By integrating knowledge from various subfields, graduates are able to devise innovative solutions to complex chemical problems. 

Theme 4: Quantitative and Analytical Skills. Central to the practice of chemistry, graduates are proficient in quantitative measurement and data analysis. In addition to precise measurement techniques, graduates are able to use statistical tools to analyze experimental data. Graduates are trained to conduct research, quality control, and various industrial applications where precise and accurate data are paramount.

Core Competency 7: Quantitative Analysis. Graduates possess the ability to perform quantitative analysis, essential in chemistry for interpreting and manipulating numerical data. They are able to apply mathematical techniques to calculate such chemical concepts as concentrations, reaction rates, and other key parameters in chemical processes. This proficiency enables graduates to model chemical phenomena accurately and make data-driven decisions in both research and practical applications.

Theme 5: Technology and Information Literacy. Graduates effectively review scientific databases and resources, enabling them to locate, evaluate, and apply relevant scientific literature in their work. Additionally, they are proficient in using computer software for chemical modeling, data analysis, and presentations, as well as familiarity with modern research instruments.

Core Competency 8: Library and Information Literacy. Chemistry graduates effectively use library and information literacy skills by efficiently locating and evaluating scientific resources. They learn to navigate databases such as SciFinder Scholar and various journals to access relevant and credible information for their research. 

Core Competency 9: Computer Literacy. Chemistry graduates are adept at using computers to analyze data, employing software tools to process and visualize complex chemical information. This proficiency allows them to handle large datasets and perform intricate calculations, essential for modern research and industry applications.