Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

• Undergraduate Studies
• Graduate Studies
• Course Descriptions

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Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry Home Page

Faculty

Christopher D. Spilling, Professor, Chairperson
Ph.D., The University of Technology, Loughborough, UK
George Gokel, Distinguished Professor, Associate Director of the Center for Nanoscience
Ph.D., University of Southern California
Robert W. Murray, Curators' Professor Emeritus
Ph.D., Yale University
Lawrence Barton, Professor Emeritus
Ph.D., University of Liverpool
James S. Chickos, Professor
Ph.D., Cornell University
Joyce Y. Corey, Professor Emerita
Ph.D., University of Wisconsin
Thomas F. George, Professor and Chancellor
Ph.D., Yale University
Wesley R. Harris, Professor
Ph.D., Texas A. and M. University
David W. Larsen, Professor Emeritus
Ph.D., Northwestern University
Jingyue Liu, Professor, Director of the Center for Nanoscience
Ph.D., Arizona State University
James J. O’Brien, Professor
Ph.D., Australian National University
Keith J. Stine, Professor, Director of Undergraduate Studies
Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Alicia M. Beatty, Associate Professor
Ph.D., Washington University
Alexei V. Demchenko, Professor, Director of Graduate Studies
Ph.D., Zelinsky Institute for Organic Chemistry, Moscow
Valerian T. D'Souza, Associate Professor
Ph.D., University of Detroit
Cynthia M. Dupureur, Associate Professor,
Ph.D., Ohio State University
David L. Garin, Associate Professor Emeritus
Ph.D., Iowa State University
Harold H. Harris, Associate Professor
Ph.D., Michigan State University
Stephen M. Holmes, Associate Professor
Ph.D., University of Illinois-Urbana-Champaign
Jane A. Miller, Associate Professor Emerita
Ph.D., Tulane University
Rudolph E. K. Winter, Associate Professor Emeritus;
Ph.D., The Johns Hopkins University
Zhi Xu, Associate Professor
Ph.D., University of Pittsburgh
Bauer, Eike, Assistant Professor
Ph.D., University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Germany
Michael R. Nichols, Associate Professor
Ph.D., Purdue University
Janet B. Wilking, Associate Professor
Ph.D., Washington University
Chung F. Wong, Associate Professor
Ph.D., University of Chicago
Nigam P. Rath, Research Professor
Ph.D., Oklahoma State University
James Bashkin, Research Associate Professor
Oxford University, UK
Rensheng Luo, Research Assistant Professor
Ph.D., Wahan Institute of Physics and Mathematics Chinese Academy of Sciences
Anthony Mannino, Adjunct Associate Professor
Ph.D., Ohio State University
John Gutweiler, Lecturer
Ph.D., Saint Louis University

Technical Staff

Joseph Kramer, Spectrometrist
Daniel Cranford, Coordinator, Laboratory Operations
Frank L. May, Research Investigator
Bruce Burkeen, Senior Research Engineering Technician
Joe Flunker, Glassblower

General Information

Degrees and Areas of Concentration
The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers courses leading to the following baccalaureate degrees:
B.A. in Chemistry
B.A. in Chemistry with a Biochemistry Certificate
B.S. in Chemistry (with a Chemistry or Biochemistry Option)
B.S. in Education with an emphasis in Chemistry (in cooperation with the College of Education)
B.A. in Chemistry with teacher certification.

The department is accredited by the American Chemical Society. Students completing the B.S. degree (chemistry or biochemistry option) are certified to the American Chemical Society. The B.S. degree is the professional degree in chemistry, and students who earn the B.S. degree are well prepared for a career in the chemical industry or for graduate work in chemistry. The department provides opportunities for undergraduates to become involved in ongoing research projects and to participate in departmental teaching activities.

The department also offers graduate work leading to the M.S. or Ph.D. degree in chemistry with most graduate courses being scheduled in the evening. A student may earn a M.S. degree with or without a thesis. The non-thesis option provides a convenient way for students who are employed full-time to earn an advanced degree. Research leading to a M.S. thesis or Ph.D. dissertation may be conducted in one of four emphasis areas, namely, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, or biochemistry. The nature of the graduate program allows each student to receive individualized attention from his/her research mentor, and to develop hands-on experience with major instrumentation in the department.

Fellowships and Scholarships
The following scholarships, fellowships and awards are available to chemistry majors:

The John J. Taylor Scholarship is given to a full-time student with high financial need, pursuing a chemistry degree and currently enrolled either of junior or senior status. There are two such scholarships available.

The Friends and Alumni Scholarship is given to a full-time student with high financial need and pursuing a chemistry degree. There are two such scholarships available.

The Monsanto Scholarship in Biochemistry and Biotechnology is open to full-time Sophomore, Junior or Senior students at the University pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry and Biotechnology.

William and Erma Cooke Chemistry Scholarships are given annually to outstanding full-time chemistry majors who are at least sophomores and have financial need.

The Lawrence Barton Scholarship is awarded to a junior, preferably a first generation college student.

The Barbara Willis Brown Scholarship for Women in Chemistry is given annually to a female chemistry major who is at least 25 years of age. The student is encouraged to enroll in undergraduate research (CHEM 3905), however research is not requirement for this award. Student financial need is a consideration.

The Eric G. Brunngraber Memorial Scholarship is given to a chemistry major based on GPA, statement of research interests, and performance in completed course work.

Aid to Education Scholarships are given to junior or senior chemistry majors annually. Faculty select awardees on the basis of merit.

The M. Thomas Jones Fellowship is given each semester to the graduate student who is deemed by his/her peers to have presented the best research seminar.

The Graduate Research Accomplishment Prize is given annually. The recipient is chosen based on his/her publications, presentations at professional meetings, and seminars given at UMSL.

Alumni Graduate Research Fellowships are available for summer study for selected chemistry graduate students. Several undergraduate awards are given each year to outstanding students. The Chemical Rubber Company Introductory Chemistry Award is given to the outstanding student in introductory chemistry, the Outstanding Sophomore Chemistry Major award is made to the top sophomore chemistry student, the American Chemical Society Division of Analytical Chemistry Award is given to the outstanding student in analytical chemistry, the American Chemical Society-St. Louis Section, Outstanding Junior Chemistry Major Award is given to the outstanding junior chemistry major, and the outstanding senior receives the Alan F. Berndt Outstanding Senior Award.

Departmental Honors
The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry will award departmental honors to those B.A. and B.S. degree candidates in chemistry with an overall grade point average of 3.2. They must also successfully complete CHEM 3905, Chemical Research, and must present an acceptable thesis.

Career Outlook

The St. Louis metropolitan area has long been a major center for industrial chemistry, and in the past decade it has become a focus for the establishment of life sciences research and development. A bachelor’s degree in chemistry provides a student with the professional training needed to play a part in this ever-changing industry.

A major in chemistry provides excellent preprofessional training in the health sciences, and a double major in chemistry and biology is often chosen by premedical and predental students and those interested in graduate work in biochemistry and biology. A minor in chemistry provides the minimum qualification and training for a position as a laboratory technician in industry, hospital laboratories, etc.

A Master’s degree in chemistry is often required for further advancement in the chemical industry, whereas a doctoral degree opens the door to many opportunities, including careers in the academic world, industrial research and development, and in government laboratories.

Undergraduate Studies

General Education Requirements
Students must satisfy the university and college general education requirements. Courses in chemistry may be used to meet the university’s science and mathematics area requirement. The college’s foreign language requirement fulfills the departmental requirements for B.A. candidates. B.S. degree candidates are not required to take a foreign language: however, the American Chemical Society (ACS) states that the study of a foreign language is highly recommended, especially for students planning to pursue graduate studies in chemistry.

Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory Restrictions
Chemistry majors may not take required chemistry, mathematics, or physics courses on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis.

Degree Requirements

Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry
This degree is intended primarily for preprofessional students in health science and related areas, as well as prelaw students interested in patent law. Candidates must complete the following chemistry courses:

CHEM 1111, Introductory Chemistry I
CHEM 1121, Introductory Chemistry II
CHEM 2223, Quantitative Analysis
CHEM 2612, Organic Chemistry I
CHEM 2622, Organic Chemistry II
CHEM 2633, Organic Chemistry Laboratory
CHEM 3022, Introduction to Chemical Literature
CHEM 3312, Physical Chemistry I
CHEM 3322, Physical Chemistry II
CHEM 3333, Physical Chemistry Laboratory
CHEM 3412, Basic Inorganic Chemistry
CHEM 4897, Seminar (1 credit)

In addition, candidates must complete one laboratory course chosen from CHEM 3643, 4233, 4343, 4433, or 4733.

No more than 45 hours in chemistry may be applied toward the degree. Each chemistry major must present a seminar and pass a comprehensive examination during the senior year. At least 12 credits at the 3000 level or higher must be completed at UMSL. The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry may require students to pass a tracking test in order to enroll in the next level course, provided this or an equivalent test is administered to all students seeking to enroll in that course.

Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry with a Biochemistry Certificate
The university offers a certificate program for science majors who are interested in careers in biochemistry. This is an interdisciplinary program that involves additional courses in biochemistry and biology. In addition to the usual requirements for the B.A. degree in chemistry, the student must take the following courses:

Chemistry
CHEM 4712, Biochemistry
CHEM 4722, Advanced Biochemistry
CHEM 4733, Biochemistry Laboratory
CHEM 4772, Physical Biochemistry

Biology
BIOL 1811, Introductory Biology: From Molecules to Organisms
BIOL 2012, Genetics
BIOL 3622, Cell Biology
BIOL 4602, Molecular Biology or BIOL 4614, Biotechnology Laboratory I

At least 12 hours at the 3000 level or above must be completed at UMSL.
Students may obtain a minor in biology by adding BIOL 1821 to the curriculum described above. The Biology department also offers a certificate in biochemistry.

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
This is the first professional degree in chemistry. It may be taken as a terminal degree by students intending to become professional chemists or for preparation for graduate work in chemistry or biochemistry. Students may choose to specialize in chemistry or biochemistry.

Chemistry Option
Candidates must complete the requirements for the B.A. degree in chemistry. In addition, the following chemistry courses are required:

CHEM 3643, Advanced Organic Chemistry Laboratory
CHEM 4212, Instrumental Analysis
CHEM 4233, Laboratory in Instrumental Analysis
CHEM 4343, Physical Chemistry Laboratory II
CHEM 4412, Advanced Inorganic Chemistry
CHEM 4433, Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory
CHEM 4712, Biochemistry

Students must also take two elective hours of advanced work in chemistry at the 3000 level or above. Students are encouraged to take CHEM 3905, Chemical Research, to fulfill the advanced elective requirement.

Related Area Requirements

Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
Candidates for both degrees must also complete:
MATH 1800, Analytic Geometry and Calculus I
MATH 1900, Analytic Geometry and Calculus II
MATH 2000, Analytic Geometry and Calculus III
PHYSICS 2111, Physics: Mechanics and Heat
PHYSICS 2112, Physics: Electricity, Magnetism, and Optics

Degrees with Certification to Teach Chemistry in Secondary Schools
One can be certified to teach chemistry at the secondary level with a degree either in Education or in Chemistry. All candidates for certification must enroll in a program that includes Levels I, II, and III course work in the College of Education. The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education requires that candidates for certification to teach secondary chemistry complete certain Science Core Courses and specialized courses in chemistry

Science Core Courses
Phil 3380, Philosophy of Science
BIOL 1811, Introductory Biology I: From Molecules to Organisms
CHEM 1111, Introductory Chemistry I
CHEM 1121, Introductory Chemistry II
BIOL 1202, Environmental Biology, or another environmental science
PHYSICS 2111, Physics: Mechanics and Heat
and
GEOL 1001, General Geology or
ATM SCI 1001, Elementary Meteorology or
ASTRON 1001 or equivalent

Chemistry Endorsement
CHEM 2223, Quantitative Analysis
CHEM 2612, Organic Chemistry I
CHEM 2622, Organic Chemistry II
CHEM 2633, Organic Chemistry Laboratory
CHEM 3312, Physical Chemistry I or CHEM 3302, Physical Chemistry for the Life Sciences
CHEM 4712, Biochemistry
CHEM 4802 or SEC ED 3240, Curriculum and Methods of Teaching Physical Sciences
CHEM 4837, Chemistry/Physics Teaching Intern Seminar
SEC ED 4990, Secondary School Student Teaching

Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry with Teacher Certification
Students must complete the B.A. in chemistry requirements, as well as the requirements for teacher certification. (See the College of Education section of this Bulletin.) There are a few science courses beyond the minimum listed above.

PHYSICS 2112, Physics: Electricity, Magnetism, and Optics
CHEM 3322, Physical Chemistry II
CHEM 3333, Physical Chemistry Laboratory I and one additional advanced laboratory course
CHEM 3412, Basic Inorganic Chemistry

Minor in Chemistry

Requirements for the Minor
Students may earn a minor in chemistry by completing the following program. The following five courses are required:

CHEM 1111, Introductory Chemistry I
CHEM 1121, Introductory Chemistry II
CHEM 2223, Quantitative Analysis
CHEM 2612, Organic Chemistry I
CHEM 2633, Organic Chemistry Laboratory

One course from the following list must be completed:

CHEM 2622, Organic Chemistry II
CHEM 3312, Physical Chemistry I
CHEM 3412, Basic Inorganic Chemistry
CHEM 4712, Biochemistry same as Biology 4712

Courses, which are prerequisites to subsequent courses in the minor, may not be taken on a satisfactory/ unsatisfactory basis. A GPA of at least 2.0 is required for the courses presented for the minor. At least three courses toward the minor must be completed at UMSL.

Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Biotechnology
The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, in cooperation with the Department of Biology, offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry and Biotechnology. Information about this degree program may be found at the Biochemistry & Biotechnology Programs Home Page.

3+4 Chemistry – Optometry Program
This is a new program option for a Chemistry degree that would enable students to earn a BA in Chemistry in 3 years (likely requiring that some courses be taken over the summer semesters) and an Optometry degree in 4 years.

1st Semester (15)
CHEM 1111, Introductory Chemistry I (5)
BIOL 1811, Intro to Biology I (5)
MATH 1800, Analytic Geometry & Calculus (5)

2nd Semester (18)
CHEM 1121, Introductory Chemistry II (5)
BIOL 1821, Intro to Biology II (5)
MATH 1900, Analytic Geometry & Calculus II (5)
+PSYCH 1003, General Psychology (3)

Summer Option
Summer Semester (3-8)
CHEM 2612, Organic Chemistry I (3)
CHEM 2622, Organic Chemistry II (3)
CHEM 2633, Organic Chemistry Laboratory (2)
*Or General Education Courses

3rd Semester (13+)
MATH 2000, Analytic Geometry & Calculus III (5)
PHYSICS 2111, Physics: Mechanics & Heat (5)
**CHEM 2612, Organic Chemistry I (3)
*General Education Courses

4th Semester (15)
PHYSICS 2112, Physics: Elec, Mag & Optics Chem (5)
CHEM 2223, Quantitative Analysis (3)
CHEM 3412, Basic Inorganic Chemistry (2)
**CHEM 2622, Organic Chemistry II (3)
**CHEM 2633, Organic Chemistry Laboratory (2)

Summer Option
Summer Semester (3-8)
CHEM 2612, Organic Chemistry I (3)
CHEM 2622, Organic Chemistry II (3)
CHEM 2633, Organic Chemistry Laboratory (2)
*Or General Education Courses

5th Semester (13+)
CHEM 3022, Intro. To Chemical Literature (1)
CHEM 3312, Physical Chemistry I (3)
#CHEM 4712, Biochemistry (3)
#CHEM 4733, Biochemistry Laboratory (2)
+PSYCH 2201, Psychological Statistics (4)
*General Education Course

6th Semester (11+1)
CHEM 3333, Physical Chemistry Lab I (2)
CHEM 3322, Physical Chemistry II (3)
CHEM 4897, Seminar (1)
+BIOL 2482, Microbiology
+BIOL 2483, Microbiology Laboratory 2
*General Education Courses

Summer Option
Summer Semester
*General Education Courses

The basis for this 3+4 program is that students are required to do the courses (and the prerequisites) for the Chemistry Bachelor of Arts degree with the exception that students can substitute Optometry’s Physical Optics and Photometry course (OPTOM 8140) for the advanced laboratory which is required for the B.A. in chemistry degree; additionally CHEM 3322 (Physical Chemistry II and CHEM 4897 (Seminar) can be completed in the first year of enrollment in the Optometry program though this is NOT recommended because students in the Optometry program take more than 20 credit hours each semester. In order to complete the chemistry program in 3 years, it is likely that some courses would need to be taken over the summer sessions (between semester 2 and 3 and between semester 4 and 5). Three chemistry classes that also are offered over the summer are suggested as options in the above schedule. These are quite compacted classes so it is not generally advised as the best option. If that summer option is chosen for those chemistry classes, however, some of the required General Education courses can be taken during the regular (3rd and 4th) semesters in place of the chemistry classes (CHEM 2612, 2622, 2633) that also are scheduled for the 3rd and 4th semester. Alternatively, General Education courses can be taken in the summer.

+ The College of Optometry requires two courses in English [e.g., Freshman Composition (ENGL 1100), junior English courses (e.g., ENGL 3160, 3100)] which is also a General Education requirement, two courses in Psychology, two Liberal Arts courses, a Statistics course, and a course in Microbiology with Lab. If Psychological Statistics (PSYCH 2201, 4 credits) is taken as the second Psychology course, that also satisfies the Statistics course requirement. One of the courses suggested in psychology (General Psychology, PSYCH 1003) also satisfies one of the three-course requirement in Social and Behavioral Sciences Knowledge (see not below on General Education courses).

# The College of Optometry strongly recommends a course in Anatomy or Physiology and a course in Biochemistry. BIOL 1102 satisfies the Anatomy or Physiology requirement but this course is not included in the schedule listed above. Another course recommended by the College of Optometry is Cell Biology (BIOL 3622, Cell Biology, 3 credits)- this is not listed above either.

** CHEM 2612, 2622, and 2633 are courses offered during the summer; currently, CHEM 2223 is not.

*General Education courses [(1) Communicating Skills (two 3 credit courses), (2) Managing Information Skills (one 3-credit course), (3) Valuing Skill (one 3-credit course, (4) Social and Behavioral Science Knowledge (three 3-credit courses) (5) Humanities and Fine Arts Knowledge (three 3-credit courses), and (6) Mathematics and Life/Natural Sciences Knowledge (four 3-credit courses)] and Foreign Language courses (required for the Chemistry B.A. degree) are not listed specifically here. The requirements for Skill Goal 2 and Knowledge Goal 6 would be fulfilled by completing courses in the program listed above.

Gaining admission to Missouri’s College of Optometry is a competitive process. Students selecting this 3+4 option should seek an initial interview with the Manager, Student and Special Services (and the Pre-Optometry Advisor) in the UMSL College of Optometry to insure that all prerequisites for the College of Optometry will be completed. In August following the completion of their second year of this 3+4 program, students may apply formally to the UMSL College of Optometry and arrange to take the Optometry Admissions Test (OAT) early in the fall of their third year. The OAT is offered through computer sites and may be scheduled almost at any time. After receipt of a completed application in the Fall Semester of the candidate’s third year and depending on the OAT outcome, the applicant may be invited for a formal interview in the College of Optometry. Following the formal interview, candidates with a 3.0 or better grade point average in the science prerequisites for optometry and a score of 310 or better in the OAT exam may be accepted into the UMSL College of Optometry.

Competencies/Expectations/Outcomes that all students must demonstrate to complete the program successfully:

1. Knowledge and comprehension in areas of chemistry - Graduates should have a foundation of knowledge in chemistry as outlined by the American Chemical Society Committee on Professional Training in their guide to Undergraduate Professional Education in Chemistry. In order to achieve the goals of any one of our chemistry degrees, knowledge is required from the related areas of introductory physics and calculus.

2. Scientific problem-solving skills - Graduates should understand valid scientific approaches to problem-solving and be able to design experiments to test a hypothesis.

3. Data analysis/quantitative skills - Graduates should be able to draw valid conclusions from experimental data and observations. Graduates should be able to carry out statistical and linear regression analysis of data. Graduates should be able to evaluate the main possible sources of error in laboratory measurements.

4. Laboratory skills - Graduates should be able to carry out the basic techniques of preparative and analytical chemistry. An appreciation of the basic aspects of chemical spectroscopy should be achieved. B.S. degree graduates should have developed an appreciation of the application of advanced/specialized instrumentation to solving chemical problems. Graduates should be able to keep accurate records of experiments. Graduates should be able to work effectively in the laboratory individually or as a part of a small team. Graduates should have an awareness of the basic aspects of safe laboratory practices.

5. Communication skills - Graduates should be able to communicate scientific ideas clearly both orally and in written form. This includes the effective presentation of quantitative data and of scientific concepts or procedures using diagrams and/or figures.

6. Library/Information skills - Graduates should be able to search for and retrieve information from scientific journals, databases, and handbooks, especially those widely used by professional chemists.

7. Computer/software skills - Graduates should be proficient in the use of software widely used by practicing scientists, including word processors, scientific plotting and analysis software, spreadsheets, data acquisition software interfaced to commercial instruments, and simulation software.

Graduate Studies

Admission Requirements
Individuals with at least the equivalent of the B.A. degree in chemistry may be admitted to the Graduate School as candidates for the M.S. degree or as precandidates for the Ph.D. degree in chemistry. A student in the M.S. program may request to transfer to the Ph.D. program by petition to the department.

The department admissions committee considers applicants' grade point averages and normally requires above-average performance in all areas of chemistry as well as physics and mathematics, or other evidence of high aptitude for graduate work in chemistry. Applicants' GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and academic programs are also considered. In some cases the committee may require successful completion of undergraduate course work as a condition of enrollment as a regular student.

Students with bachelor's degrees in fields other than chemistry may be admitted to pursue graduate studies in chemistry, but they must make up background deficiencies, usually by taking undergraduate course work.

Financial Support
Teaching assistantships are available to qualified applicants. Research assistantships and fellowships are available for advanced students. For further information, contact the Graduate Studies Committee, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry.

Preliminary Advisement
Students who have been admitted for graduate work in chemistry will be contacted by the Director of Graduate Studies in order to develop a tentative plan of study which takes into consideration the student's background and interests. Entering students are required to demonstrate proficiency at the undergraduate level in four areas of chemistry (biochemistry, organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical).

Proficiency may be demonstrated in one of the following ways:

• Outstanding performance in recent undergraduate course work.
• Satisfactory performance in standardized placement examinations. These examinations are given twice a year, approximately one week before the beginning of the fall and winter semesters.
• Successful completion of assigned course work.

The ultimate choice of whether students may enroll in the M.S. or Ph.D. degree programs resides with the chemistry faculty.

Distribution Requirement
All graduate students (M.S. and Ph.D.) must fulfill the distributing requirements as described under “Doctoral Degree Requirements.”

Master's Degree Requirements

Master of Science in Chemistry
Candidates for the M.S. degree in chemistry must demonstrate proficiency in organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry within two years of initial enrollment.

A minimum of 30 hours is required, normally including 3 hours in CHEM 6897 Chemistry Colloquium. No more than 3 hours in CHEM 6897 may be applied toward the required minimum of 30 credit hours.

Master of Science in Chemistry with Thesis
Students selecting this option must be enrolled full-time for at least two consecutive semesters. During this time, students are expected to enroll in CHEM 6905, Graduate Research in Chemistry, and conduct their thesis research. A maximum of 12 hours of CHEM 6905 may be applied toward the required 30 hours. At least 9 hours must be at the 5000 level, excluding CHEM 6905. A maximum of 9 hours in 3000 level or above courses outside the department may be accepted if students receive prior approval of their advisers and the Director of Graduate Studies. Students are expected to follow all other general requirements of the Graduate School regarding master’s degree and thesis requirements.

Master of Science without Thesis
Unlike the thesis option, students need not be enrolled full-time. Of the required 30 hours, 15 credits must be at the 5000 level. A maximum of 6 credits of CHEM 6905, Graduate Research in Chemistry, may be included in place of 4000 level courses. A maximum of 12 hours taken in 3000 level or above courses outside the department may be accepted with prior approval of the Director of Graduate Studies.

Doctoral Degree Requirements
Incoming doctoral students must demonstrate proficiency in biochemistry, organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry within one year of initial enrollment. A minimum of 60 hours is required, including research hours.

Distribution Requirement
Students must take chemistry courses for graduate credit at the 4000 and 5000 levels. Students may choose to concentrate the majority of their coursework in one of four areas (biochemistry, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, or physical chemistry). Students must complete at least 6 hours of chemistry coursework in one (or more) sub-disciplines(s) outside of their major emphasis area. The following courses may not be used to fulfill the distribution requirement: Chem. 4212, 4233, 4302, 4343, 4412, and 4433.

Qualifying Examinations
In addition to the requirements set forth by the Graduate School, each student seeking the Ph.D. degree must successfully complete a qualifying examination in his/her major area of specialization prior to advancement to candidacy. The format of the qualifying examination depends upon the student’s major area of emphasis (biochemistry, inorganic, organic or physical). In general, the qualifying examination consists of either comprehensive written and/or oral examinations, usually administered near the end of the 4th semester, or a series of cumulative examinations given eight times a year. In the latter case, a student must pass a minimum of two cumulative examinations per year and eight cumulative examinations before the end of the 6th semester. At least six of these cumulative examinations must be in the student’s major area of specialization. For more detailed information, contact the Director of Graduate Studies in the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry.

Seminar Requirement
Students must present a seminar in their third year and during each subsequent year. The third year seminar may be the defense of the doctoral dissertation proposal. One of the seminars is for the purpose of describing dissertation research. Students must enroll in Chemistry 6897, Chemistry Colloquium, each semester they are in residence.

Advancement to Candidacy
In addition to general Graduate School requirements for advancement to candidacy, students must complete the following:

1) 21 hours of nondissertation work. This may not include:

CHEM 4212, Instrumental Analysis
CHEM 4233, Laboratory in Instrumental Analysis
CHEM 4302, Survey of Physical Chemistry with Application to the Life Sciences
CHEM 4343, Physical ChemistryLaboratory II
CHEM 4412, Advanced Inorganic Chemistry
CHEM 4433, Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory
CHEM 6196, Advanced Reading in Chemistry
CHEM 6487, Inorganic Problem Seminar
CHEM 6687, Organic Problem Seminar
CHEM 6787, Biochemistry Problem Seminar
CHEM 6812, Introduction to Graduate Study in Chemistry
CHEM 6822, Introduction to Graduate Research in Chemistry
CHEM 6897, Chemistry Colloquium
but should include at least six credit hours of coursework outside of their major area of emphasis (see Distribution Requirement)
Courses in areas other than chemistry may be included with prior departmental approval.

2) Successfully pass a qualifying examination or cumulative examinations.
3) Present at least one seminar to the department on the dissertation research.
4) Participate in the undergraduate academic program as a teaching assistant for at least one semester.
5) Be in good standing.

Dissertation
Three copies of the dissertation must be submitted upon completion of the graduate research problem.

Probation and Dismissal
Students are dismissed from the Ph.D. program if they fail to pass their qualifying examination or otherwise fail to meet the academic and professional standards set forth by the Graduate School and the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry.

Master of Science in Biochemistry and Biotechnology
The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, in cooperation with the Department of Biology, offers a Master of Science degree in Biochemistry and Biotechnology. Information about this degree program may be found at the Biochemistry & Biotechnology Programs Home Page.

Course Descriptions

Prerequisites may be waived by consent of the department or instructor. Some courses as indicated in the course description may be taken concurrently with the listed offering. Consult your department adviser for further information.

CHEM 1011 Chemistry in the Environment and Everyday Living (3) [MI, MS]
This course examines the role of chemistry in everyday life and in the environment, and is intended for students not pursuing scientific or engineering majors. Chemical principles are introduced to the extent necessary for understanding of issues, but this course does not provide the basis for further technical courses. Two hours of lecture per week; on alternate weeks, one hour of discussion or two hours of laboratory.

CHEM 1052 Chemistry for the Health Professions (4) [MI, MS]
An introduction to general, nuclear, structural organic, organic reactions and biochemistry. This course is designed primarily for students in nursing and related health professions, and should not be taken by students majoring in the physical or biological sciences. Chemistry majors may include neither CHEM 1052 nor 1062 in the 120 hours required for graduation. Four hours of lecture per week.

CHEM 1062 Organic and Biochemistry for the Health Professions (2) [MI, MS]
Prerequisite: any college chemistry course. An introduction to organic reactions and biochemistry. CHEM 1062 is offered during the second half of the semester. Four hours of lecture per week.

CHEM 1111 Introductory Chemistry I (5) [MS]
Prerequisites: Mathematics through college algebra and trigonometry (may be taken concurrently). Presents an introduction to the fundamental laws and theories of chemistry. Laboratory experiments are designed to demonstrate some aspects of qualitative and quantitative analysis and to develop skills in laboratory procedures. Chemistry majors may not include both CHEM 1011 and CHEM 1111 in the 120 hours required for graduation. Three hours of lecture and one hour of discussion per week; one hour of laboratory-lecture and three hours of laboratory per week.

CHEM 1121 Introductory Chemistry II (5) [MI, MS]
Prerequisite: CHEM 1111 or advanced placement. Lecture and laboratory are a continuation of CHEM 1111. Three hours of lecture and one hour of discussion per week; one hour laboratory-lecture and three hours of laboratory weekly.

CHEM 1134 Special Topics in Introductory Chemistry (1-5)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. A lecture or laboratory course to assist transfer students in meeting the requirements of CHEM 1111 and CHEM 1121. Students enrolling in this course should contact the instructor prior to the first day of class for guidelines on course requirements, to choose a lab or workshop section, and to request enrollment in the course website.

CHEM 2223 Quantitative Analysis (3) [C, MI, MS]
Prerequisite: CHEM 1121. Principles and practice of elementary quantitative chemistry. The lecture treats descriptive statistics with emphasis on small samples; various types of competing equilibria pertaining to acid-base, complexometric and potentiometric titrations; and an introduction to spectrophotometric processes. The laboratory provides exercises in titrimetric, gravimetric, and spectrophotometric techniques. Both portions of the course deal with the analytical chemistry of environmentally-significant problems. Two hours of lecture and four and one-half hours of laboratory weekly.

CHEM 2612 Organic Chemistry I (3) [MS]
Prerequisite: CHEM 1121. An introduction to the structure, properties, synthesis, and reactions of aliphatic and aromatic carbon compounds. Three hours of lecture per week.

CHEM 2622 Organic Chemistry II (3) [MI, MS]
Prerequisite: CHEM 2612. A systematic study of organic reactions and their mechanisms; organic synthetic methods. Three hours of lecture per week.

CHEM 2633 Organic Chemistry Laboratory (2) [C, MS]
Prerequisite: CHEM 2612. An introduction to laboratory techniques and procedures of synthetic organic chemistry including analysis of organic compounds. One hour of lecture and four and one-half hours of laboratory per week.

CHEM 3022 Introduction to Chemical Literature (1)
Prerequisites: CHEM 2622 (may be taken concurrently) and CHEM 3412. The course will familiarize the student with the literature of chemistry and its use. One hour of lecture per week.

CHEM 3302 Physical Chemistry for the Life Sciences (3)
Prerequisites: CHEM 2612 and MATH 1800 or MATH 1100, and PHYSICS 1012. Principles and applications of physical chemistry appropriate to students pursuing degree programs in the life sciences. Topics will include thermodynamics, equilibria, kinetics, and spectroscopy. This course is intended for undergraduates seeking the B.S. degree in Biochemistry and Biotechnology and does not fulfill the physical chemistry requirement for other Chemistry B.A. and B.S. degree programs.

CHEM 3312 Physical Chemistry I (3)
Prerequisites: CHEM 1121 and MATH 2000 (may be taken concurrently), and PHYSICS 2111. Principles of physical chemistry, including thermodynamics, theory of gases, phase equilibria, kinetics, crystal structure, spectroscopy, and quantum mechanics. Three hours per week.

CHEM 3322 Physical Chemistry II (3)
Prerequisite: CHEM 3312. Continuation of CHEM 3312. Three hours of lecture per week.

CHEM 3333 Physical Chemistry Laboratory I (2)
Prerequisites: CHEM 2223 and CHEM 3312. Experiments designed to illustrate principles introduced in CHEM 3312. One hour of lecture and four and one-half hours of laboratory per week.

CHEM 3412 Basic Inorganic Chemistry (2) [MI, MS]
Prerequisite: CHEM 1121. Review of principles of atomic structure, covalent and ionic bonding. Properties of the elements and synthesis reactions and boding aspects of important compounds of main group and transition metal elements. Two hours lecture per week.

CHEM 3643 Advanced Organic Chemistry Laboratory (2)
Prerequisites: CHEM 2223, CHEM 2622, CHEM 2633. CHEM 3022 may be taken concurrently. Identification of organic compounds by classical and spectroscopic methods; advanced techniques in synthesis and separation of organic compounds. One hour of lecture and four and one-half hours laboratory per week. Not for graduate credit.

CHEM 3905 Chemical Research (1-10)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. Independent laboratory and library study, in conjunction with faculty member, of fundamental problems in chemistry. A written report describing the research is required.

CHEM 4212 Instrumental Analysis (2)
Prerequisite: CHEM 3322. Principles and applications of modern methods of instrumental analysis for analytical chemistry measurements. Topics will be selected from the areas of electrochemistry, absorption and emission spectroscopy, chromatography, mass spectrometry, surface analysis, and nuclear magnetic resonance. Two hours of lecture per week.

CHEM 4233 Laboratory in Instrumental Analysis (2)
Prerequisites: CHEM 4212 and CHEM 3333. Experiments designed to illustrate the principles and practices of instrumental analysis, involving the use of modern instrumentation in analytical chemistry applications. One hour of discussion and four and one-half hours of laboratory per week.

CHEM 4302 Survey of Physical Chemistry with Applications to the Life Sciences (3)
Prerequisites: CHEM 2612 and MATH 1800 or MATH 1100, and PHYSICS 1012. Principles of physical chemistry with applications to the life sciences. Topics will include thermodynamics, equilibria, kinetics, and spectroscopy. This course will be taught simultaneously with CHEM 3302, but students in 4302 will have additional assignments or projects. No student may receive credit for both CHEM 3302 and 4302.

CHEM 4343 Physical Chemistry Laboratory II (2)
Prerequisites: CHEM 3322 (may be taken concurrently) and CHEM 3333. Experiments designed to illustrate principles introduced in CHEM 3322. One hour of lecture and four and one-half hours of laboratory per week. Not for graduate credit.

CHEM 4412 Advanced Inorganic Chemistry (3)
Prerequisites: CHEM 3322 (may be taken concurrently) CHEM 3412 and CHEM 2622. An introduction to the chemistry of the elements, including atomic and molecular structure, acids and bases, the chemistry of the solid state, and main group and transition metal chemistry. Three hours of lecture per week.

CHEM 4433 Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory (2)
Prerequisites: CHEM 3333, CHEM 4412 and CHEM 3643, (CHEM 3643 may be taken concurrently). The more sophisticated techniques of physical and analytical chemistry will be used to study inorganic compounds and their reactions. One hour of lecture and four and one-half hours of laboratory per week. Not for graduate credit.

CHEM 4652 Spectroscopic Identification of Organic Compounds (3)
Prerequisite: CHEM 3643. An applied approach to the use of spectroscopic techniques in organic chemistry. Topics to include integrated applications of infrared and Raman spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance 13C and 1H, cw and pulsed and mass spectroscopy for the purpose of elucidating the structure of organic compounds. Three hours of lecture per week.

CHEM 4712 Biochemistry (3)
Same as BIOL 4712. Prerequisites: CHEM 2612 and either BIOL 1811 or CHEM 2622. Examines the chemistry and function of cell constituents, and the interaction and conversions of intracellular substances, Students may not receive credit for both BIOL 4712 and CHEM 4712.

CHEM 4722 Advanced Biochemistry (3)
Prerequisite: CHEM 4712. Selected advanced topics in the chemistry of life processes. Three hours of lecture per week.

CHEM 4733 Biochemistry Laboratory (2)
Prerequisites: CHEM 4712 (may be taken concurrently), and CHEM 2223. Laboratory study of biochemical processes in cellular and subcellular systems with emphasis on the isolation and purification of proteins (enzymes) and the characterization of catalytic properties. One hour of lecture and four and one-half hours of laboratory per week.

CHEM 4772 Physical Biochemistry (3)
Prerequisite: CHEM 3312 or CHEM4712/BIOL 4712. Designed to acquaint students with concepts and methods in biophysical chemistry. Topics that will be discussed include protein and DNA structures, forces involved in protein folding and conformational stability, protein-DNA interactions, methods for characterization and separation of macromolecules, electron transfer, and biological spectroscopy. Three hours of lecture per week.

CHEM 4797 Biochemistry and Biotechnology Seminar (1)
Same as BIOL 4797. Prerequisite: Senior standing in the Biochemistry and Biotechnology program. This course will focus on selected publications related to biochemistry and biotechnology from both refereed journals and news sources. Students are expected to participate in discussions and to prepare oral and written presentations. Completion of the Major Field Achievement Test in Biochemistry & Biotechnology is a course requirement. May not be taken for graduate credit.

CHEM 4802 Curriculum and Methods of Teaching Physical Sciences (3)
Prerequisites: TCH ED 3310 and a near major in the subject matter. A study of the scope and sequence of the physical science courses in the school curriculum, with emphasis on the selection and organization of materials and methods of instruction and evaluation. Attention is also directed toward learning the techniques and research tools of the scholar in the field of science. To be taken prior to student teaching. This course must be completed in residence.

CHEM 4814 Special Topics in Chemistry (1-10)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. A reading and seminar course in selected advanced topics.

CHEM 4837 Chemistry / Physics Teaching Intern Seminar (1)
Same as PHYSICS 4837. Prerequisite: CHEM 4802 or PHYSICS 4800. A seminar to accompany student teaching covering integration of physical science curricula and methods into the classroom setting. To be taken concurrently with Secondary Student Teaching, SEC ED 3290. One-hour discussion per week.

CHEM 4897 Seminar (1)
Prerequisites: CHEM 3022 and senior standing. Presentation of papers by students, faculty, and invited speakers. Chemistry majors must enroll during the semester in which they intend to graduate. Completion of a comprehensive examination is a course requirement. One hour of lecture and one hour of discussion per week.

CHEM 5394 Special Topics in Physical Chemistry (1-3)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. Selected topics in physical chemistry. May be taken more than once for credit.

CHEM 5396 Directed Readings in Physical Chemistry (1-3)
Prerequisite: Consent of Physical Chemistry Faculty. A series of readings of monographs, review papers, and/or research publications for a particular student directed at providing that student with appropriate background preparation for experimental or theoretical Ph.D. level research in an area of physical chemistry. The particular readings will be selected by the physical chemistry staff. Potential topics include but are not limited to advances in Electrochemistry, Surface Chemistry, Thermodynamics, Molecular Spectroscopy, Quantitative Absorption Spectroscopy using new Methodologies, Applications of Group Theory in Spectroscopy, and Computational chemistry. Assessment may be in various forms including by assignments and seminars. Students may take this course more than once for credit though the particular topic must be different in each case.

CHEM 5422 Coordination Chemistry (3)
Prerequisite: CHEM 4412 or an equivalent course. Chemistry of the coordination compounds of the transition metals including such topics as kinetics and mechanisms of reaction, stereochemistry, ligand field theory, stability and electronic spectra. Three hours of lecture per week.

CHEM 5462 Organometallic Chemistry of the Transition Elements (3)
Prerequisite: CHEM 4412 or an equivalent course. A study of the transition metal compounds containing metal-carbon bonds and related metal-element bonds, including their synthesis, structure and bonding, and reactions. Applications in organic synthesis and catalysis will also be presented. Three hours of lecture per week.

CHEM 5494 Special Topics in Inorganic Chemistry (1-3)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. Selected topics in inorganic chemistry. May be taken more than once for credit.

CHEM 5602 Advanced Organic Chemistry I - Physical Organic (3)
Prerequisites: CHEM 2622 and CHEM 3322 Mechanism and theory of organic chemistry. Topics to include kinetics, transition state theory, reaction intermediates, and stereochemical analysis. Three hours of lecture per week.

CHEM 5612 Advanced Organic Chemistry II - Reactions and Synthesis (3)
Prerequisite: CHEM 2622. Examination of a variety of organic transformations typically utilized in organic synthesis. Topics will include carbon-carbon bond formation, pericyclic reactions, oxidation, reduction, and functional group interconversions. Mechanism and stereochemistry will be emphasized. Three hours of lecture per week.

CHEM 5694 Special Topics in Organic Chemistry (3)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. Advanced topics of special current interest. May be taken more than once for credit. Topics that may be offered include: methods of organic synthesis, organometallics in organic synthesis, topics in bio-organic chemistry, organic thermochemistry, natural products chemistry, stereochemistry, photochemistry, heterocyclic chemistry, medicinal chemistry.

CHEM 5774 Bioinformatics (3)
Prerequisite: CHEM 4712 or equivalent. This course introduces modern approaches in bioinformatics and computational biochemistry. Topics to be covered include a survey of biological databases, predictions from protein and DNA sequences, sequence alignment and sequence database searches, building phylogenetic trees, three-dimensional protein structure prediction, and molecular modeling and simulation.

CHEM 5794 Special Topics in Biochemistry (1-3)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. Selected topics in biochemistry. May be taken more than once for credit.

CHEM 6196 Advanced Reading in Chemistry (1)
Prerequisite: Admission to the Ph.D. degree program. Reading and examinations in the subdisciplines of chemistry. Enrollment must begin after completion of any course deficiencies.

CHEM 6487 Problem Seminar in Inorganic Chemistry (1)
Prerequisite: Consent of the inorganic chemistry staff. Problems from the current literature, presentations and discussions by faculty, students and visiting scientists. Ph.D. students may take more than once for credit. Up to three credits may be applied to the M.S. degree program. credit. Up to three credits may be applied to the M.S. degree program.

CHEM 6687 Problem Seminar in Organic Chemistry (1)
Prerequisite: Consent of the organic chemistry staff. Problems from the current literature, presentations, and discussions by faculty, students, and visiting scientists. Ph.D. students may take more than once for credit. Up to three credits may be applied to the M.S. degree program.

CHEM 6787 Problem Seminar in Biochemistry (1)
Prerequisite: Consent of the biochemistry staff. Problems from the current literature, presentations and discussions by faculty, students and visiting scientists. Ph.D. students may take more than once for credit. Up to three credits may be applied to the M.S. degree program.

CHEM 6812 Introduction to Graduate Study in Chemistry (1)
Prerequisite: Consent of Graduate Adviser. Topics to be covered include: techniques of teaching of Chemistry in colleges and universities, methods of instruction and evaluation; and responsibilities of the Graduate Teaching Assistant in laboratory instruction; safety in the undergraduate laboratory, safety practices, emergency procedures; selection of research project and thesis adviser.

CHEM 6822 Introduction to Graduate Research in Chemistry (1)
Prerequisite: Consent of Graduate Adviser. Topics include: safety in the research laboratory, safety practices, emergency procedures, hazardous materials, waste disposal, radiation safety; research ethics; chemistry information retrieval, computer assisted information retrieval, types of databases, searching bibliographic data bases.

CHEM 6897 Chemistry Colloquium (1)
Presentation of papers by students, faculty, and invited speakers. One hour per week.

CHEM 6905 Graduate Research in Chemistry (1-10)