Chemistry (Minor)

Program Summary

Chemistry, a central science, has been at Southern Utah University since its inception in 1897. The chemistry program has grown from a single course in 1897 to now offering robust major and minors taught by dedicated and highly qualified faculty with terminal degrees in each major area of the chemistry curriculum (analytical, biochemistry, inorganic, organic, and physical). Faculty with expertise in numerous chemical disciplines offer students expertise in the classroom and a wide variety of undergraduate research opportunities. A low student-to-faculty ratio guarantees a close working relationship between students and their professors, especially in upper-division classes. Students are expected to become fully integrated into the university experience and develop an appreciation of education as a lifelong pursuit. The mission of the chemistry program is to afford all students the opportunity to understand the discipline of chemistry and its relevance through quality teaching, scholarly activities, and service. In a world that is becoming increasingly more technical and complex, providing chemical instruction with the depth, breadth, and rigor required to meet this need is of primary importance.

Program Learning Outcomes

• Students should be able to use the peer-reviewed scientific literature effectively and evaluate technical articles critically. Computer applications and resources will be emphasized as a method to navigate the literature.
• Students should be able to present information in a clear and organized manner, write well-organized and concise reports in a scientifically appropriate style, and use technology such as poster preparation software, word-processing, chemical structure drawing programs, and computerized presentations in their communication.
• Students should understand responsible disposal techniques, understand and comply with safety regulations, understand and use material safety data sheets (MSDS), recognize and minimize potential chemical and physical hazards in the laboratory, and know how to handle laboratory emergencies effectively.
• Students should be able to define problems clearly, develop testable hypotheses, design and execute experiments, analyze data using appropriate statistical methods, and draw appropriate conclusions.

Program Information

• All courses must be passed with a “C” (2.0) or better to be counted in the minor.
• All prerequisite courses must be passed with “C” (2.0) or better.
• Credits greater than 10 years old will not be accepted for this minor.