CHM 101. Introductory General, Organic, and Biochemistry I. 3 Hours

The first semester of a two-semester course covering fundamentals of general, organic and biochemistry as they relates to the health sciences, human medicine, or science education. The topics include states of matter, scientific measurements, balancing chemical equations, acid-base properties of aqueous reactions, pH-scale, buffers, and intramolecular and intermolecular chemical bonding. Foundational general chemistry topics essential to understanding biological systems and health sciences are emphasized.

CHM 101L. Introductory General, Organic, and Biochemistry Laboratory I. 1 Hour

Laboratory course to complement CHM 101. Laboratory procedures reinforce concepts covered in lecture with an emphasis on relating chemistry to the health sciences and human medicine. One three-hour laboratory session each week. Corequisite(s): CHM 101.

CHM 102. Introductory General, Organic, and Biochemistry II. 3 Hours

The second part of a two-semester course that covers the fundamentals of general, organic and biochemistry subject areas. Topics include an introduction to chemical nomenclature, structure, and function of biologically relevant organic compounds including function and reactivity of chemical groups commonly encountered in living systems. This course will also cover fundamental components of cell structure, transcription and translation, and metabolism as it relates to chemical principles and reactivity. Several aspects of organic chemistry relevant to living organisms will be emphasized. Prerequisite(s): CHM 101.

CHM 102L. Introductory General, Organic, and Biochemistry Laboratory Course II. 1 Hour

Laboratory course to complement CHM 102, a lecture course which covers the fundamentals of general, organic and biochemistry as it relates to the health sciences or human medicine. One three-hour laboratory session each week. Prerequisites: CHM 101L. Corequisites: CHM 102.

CHM 115. College Prepatory Chemistry. 3 Hours

One-term course for students desiring to enter a science or engineering program but whose background is insufficient for CHM 123 and CHM 124. Unacceptable for credit toward chemistry requirements in any chemistry program.

CHM 115L. College Prepatory Chemistry Laboratory. 1 Hour

Course to accompany CHM 115 or to be elected by students in CHM 200 who lack previous chemistry laboratory experience. One three-hour laboratory each week.

CHM 123. General Chemistry I. 3 Hours

First of a two-semester general chemistry sequence where chemical matter and measurement, atoms, ions, molecular and ionic compounds, nomenclature, stoichiometry, aqueous reactions, gases, thermochemistry, atomic structure, periodic properties, molecular geometry and chemical bonding are studied. Prerequisite(s): One year of high school chemistry or equivalent.

CHM 123L. General Chemistry I Laboratory. 1 Hour

Laboratory course to complement CHM 123. One three-hour laboratory session each week. Prerequisite(s): CHM 123 (can be taken concurrently).

CHM 124. General Chemistry II. 3 Hours

Second of a two-semester general chemistry sequence where inter- and intramolecular forces, properties of liquids, solids, reaction kinetics, equilibrium, acid and base theories, pH and buffers, solubility equilibria, thermodynamics, and electrochemistry are studied. Prerequisite(s): CHM 123.

CHM 124L. General Chemistry II Laboratory. 1 Hour

Laboratory course to complement CHM 124. One three-hour laboratory session each week. Prerequisites: CHM 123L and CHM 123 and CHM 124 (can be taken concurrently).

CHM 190. Seminar I. 0 Hours

Overview of methods of scientific oral presentation and formal conversation within the molecular sciences professional community.

CHM 200. Chemistry & Society. 3 Hours

Examination of issues such as environmental quality, disease, hunger, synthetic materials, and law enforcement by the application of chemical principles. Course is for non-science majors. Depending upon background and experience, a student needing a laboratory course may enroll in SCI220L. Prerequisite(s): One year of high school chemistry or equivalent.

CHM 201. Quantitative Chemical Analysis. 3 Hours

This course expands on the principles and practices of quantitative chemical analysis started in CHM123/124, focusing on the measurement of chemical composition with accuracy and precision. Students learn how to design analytical procedures, collect and interpret data, and evaluate sources of error using statistical methods. Core topics include gravimetric and volumetric analysis, some instrumental spectroscopic techniques, calibration methods, and electrochemistry. Emphasis is placed on problem-solving and the critical assessment of analytical results, preparing students to apply quantitative analysis in research, industry, and related scientific fields. Prerequisite(s): CHM 124 or equivalent.

CHM 201L. Quantitative Chemical Analysis Laboratory. 1 Hour

This laboratory course provides hands-on experience with the techniques and methodologies of quantitative chemical analysis. Laboratory work focuses on classical methods such as titrimetric and gravimetric analyses and introduces students to modern instrumental methods of analysis including spectroscopic and electrochemical analysis techniques. Students learn how to carefully calibrate laboratory equipment and perform experiments with an emphasis on proper sample preparation, accurate measurement, data analysis and error evaluation using statistical tools. Through careful experimentation and formal reporting, students develop competence and become proficient in different laboratory techniques, critical thinking, and the reliable interpretation and presentation of quantitative results. Corequisite(s): CHM 201 or equivalent.

CHM 234. Energy Resources. 3 Hours

The chemical and geological aspects of formation, production, and benefits/costs (including environmental impacts) of energy derived from fossil fuels (coal and hydrocarbons), biofuels (e.g., ethanol production), radioactive materials (nuclear power), and renewable sources (e.g., geothermal, hydro, wind, and solar power). Prerequisite(s): CHM 123, CHM 124. Corequisite(s): GEO 208.

CHM 290. Seminar II. 0 Hours

Overview of methods of scientific oral presentation and formal conversation within the molecular sciences professional community.

CHM 302. Physical Chemistry. 3 Hours

Essential elements of thermodynamics, chemical kinetics, equilibria, and electrochemistry for those with a primary interest in the life sciences. For B.A. chemistry majors and premedical, predental, and biology majors. Prerequisite(s): CHM 124.

CHM 302L. Physical Chemistry Laboratory. 1 Hour

Course to accompany CHM 302. One three-hour laboratory each week. Prerequisite(s): CHM 201, CHM 201L. Corequisite(s): CHM 302.

CHM 303. Physical Chemistry I. 3 Hours

CHM 303 introduces the fundamental principles of physical chemistry, focusing on thermodynamics and its application to chemical systems. Building on concepts from general chemistry and calculus, the course emphasizes the relationships between energy, heat, work, and entropy in determining the behavior of gases, liquids, and solids. Topics include the laws of thermodynamics, equations of state, chemical kinetics, physical and chemical equilibrium, and electrochemistry. Students develop problem-solving and critical-thinking skills by analyzing quantitative relationships, interpreting thermodynamic data, and predicting the direction and extent of chemical processes. Prerequisite(s): CHM 201 or equivalent; MTH 149 or MTH 169; (PHY 201 or PHY 206 or PHYS 201 or PHYS 206).

CHM 303L. Physical Chemistry Laboratory. 1 Hour

Course to accompany CHM 303. One three-hour laboratory each week. Prerequisite(s): MTH 218.

CHM 304. Physical Chemistry II. 3 Hours

Calculus-based discussion of quantum chemistry and spectroscopy (atomic and molecular). For B.S. chemistry and biochemistry majors and chemical engineers. Prerequisite(s): CHM 303 or equivalent; (PHY 202, PHYS 202, PHYS 207, or PHY 207); MTH 149 or 169.

CHM 304L. Physical Chemistry Laboratory. 1 Hour

Course to accompany CHM 304. One three-hour laboratory each week. Corequisite(s): MTH 218.

CHM 313. Organic Chemistry I. 3 Hours

CHM 313 introduces the fundamental principles of organic chemistry, focusing on the structure, properties, and reactivity of organic molecules. Building on concepts from general chemistry, the course emphasizes the relationship between molecular structure and chemical behavior, including bonding, functional groups, stereochemistry, and reaction mechanisms. Students develop problem-solving and critical-thinking skills by analyzing chemical information, predicting how organic molecules will react, and applying foundational chemical principles to unfamiliar situations. The course also highlights the broader relevance of organic chemistry by connecting core concepts to real-world applications and the impact of organic molecules on modern society. Prerequisite(s): CHM 124.

CHM 313L. Organic Chemistry I Laboratory. 1 Hour

Common separation, purification, and analytical techniques including chromatography and spectroscopy. One three-hour laboratory each week. Corequisite(s): CHM 313.

CHM 314. Organic Chemistry II. 3 Hours

CHM 314 continues the study of organic chemistry by examining the structure, properties, and reactivity of additional functional groups and the mechanisms that govern organic reactions. Building on the foundational concepts developed in CHM 313, the course emphasizes the relationship between molecular structure and chemical reactivity, including reaction mechanisms, spectroscopy, and strategies for organic synthesis. Students develop advanced problem-solving and critical-thinking skills by analyzing chemical data, predicting reaction outcomes, and applying mechanistic reasoning to more complex organic systems. The course also highlights the relevance of organic chemistry to biological molecules, pharmaceuticals, and modern materials, helping students understand how organic chemistry principles apply to real-world scientific and societal challenges. Prerequisite(s): CHM 313.

CHM 314L. Organic Chemistry Laboratory. 1 Hour

Synthesis and characterization of organic materials utilizing skills from CHM 313L. One three-hour laboratory each week. Prerequisite(s): CHM 313L. Corequisite(s): CHM 314.

CHM 317. Spectroscopic Identification of Organic Compounds. 1 Hour

CHM 317 introduces the theory and practical application of spectroscopic techniques used for the identification of organic compounds. The course focuses on the interpretation and integration of data from mass spectrometry, infrared (IR) spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Students learn both the theoretical principles underlying these techniques and gain hands-on experience operating departmental instrumentation to collect and analyze spectral data. Through problem-solving exercises and the analysis of an unknown organic compound, students develop the skills needed to interpret spectroscopic information and determine molecular structure. Prerequisite(s): (CHM 314, CHM 314L) or equivalent.

CHM 319L. Advanced Organic Synthesis Laboratory. 1 Hour

CHM 319L is an advanced organic synthesis laboratory that provides students with experience in modern synthetic chemistry techniques and instrumentation. Building on skills developed in introductory organic laboratory courses, students design and carry out complex organic reactions, including multi-step target-based syntheses, while developing proficiency in laboratory safety, experimental planning, and the use of modern analytical tools. The course emphasizes independent laboratory work, interpretation of scientific literature, and the preparation of professional laboratory reports and scientific documents. Through these experiences, students develop confidence and independence in the research laboratory while strengthening their ability to analyze experimental data, communicate scientific results, and apply advanced organic chemistry concepts to real chemical systems. Prerequisite(s): (CHM 314, CHM 314L) or equivalent.

CHM 324. Green Chemistry. 3 Hours

Green Chemistry will explore the principles and practices that aim to design chemical products and processes that reduce or eliminate the use and generation of hazardous substances. This interdisciplinary field focuses on sustainability, environmental protection, and the efficient use of resources in the chemical industry. Key topics covered will be 1) Fundamentals of Green Chemistry, 2) Renewable Resources, 3) Eco-friendly Chemical Processes, 4) Waste Minimization and Pollution Prevention, and 5) Toxicology and Environmental Impact Assessment of chemical products. Each section will have fundamental and applied topics discussed. Prerequisite: CHM 124.

CHM 341. Environmental Chemistry. 3 Hours

This course provides an introduction to the chemical processes that govern natural and human-impacted environments. Students explore fundamental principles of chemical equilibrium in aqueous, soil, and atmospheric systems with emphasis on speciation, solubility, and acid–base behavior in natural waters. The course also examines reaction mechanisms relevant to atmospheric chemistry, including the formation, transformation, and fate of key air pollutants. In addition, students are introduced to analytical methods commonly used in environmental chemistry, focusing on techniques for sampling, detection, and quantification of chemical species in air, water, and soil. Together, these topics build a foundation for understanding chemical behavior in environmental systems and for evaluating environmental quality and change. Prerequisite(s): CHM 201 or equivalent.

CHM 341L. Environmental Chemistry Laboratory. 1 Hour

This laboratory complements the study of environmental chemistry (CHM341) by providing hands-on experience with experimental techniques used to investigate chemical processes in the environment. Students conduct laboratory and field-based experiments focused on the analysis of air, water, and soil samples, applying principles such as chemical equilibrium, kinetics, and redox chemistry. Emphasis is placed on proper sampling methods, instrumental and wet-chemical analytical techniques, and data analysis. Through these experiments, students develop practical skills in environmental measurement, critical evaluation of results, and safe laboratory practice, preparing them for advanced study or professional work in environmental and chemical sciences. Corequisite(s): CHM 341.

CHM 390. Seminar III. 0 Hours

Overview of methods of scientific oral presentation and formal conversation within the molecular sciences professional community.

CHM 404. Special Topics in Physical Chemistry. 3 Hours

Thorough treatment of topics such as electrochemistry, macromolecules, photochemistry, or spectroscopy. May be repeated as topics change. Prerequisite(s): CHM 302 or CHM 303.

CHM 410. Biological Inorganic Chemistry. 3 Hours

An advanced course which considers the role of metal ions in biological and plant systems. For example, alkali and alkaline earth metal ions and their roles in membrane stabilization, nerve signals, and electrical gradients. Transition metal ions in metalloenzymes (superoxided dismutase, carbonic anhydrase, hemoglobin, hemocyanin) and their role in redox processes, transport, and catalysis. Metal complexes as therapeutics and imaging agents. Prerequisites: CHM 314.

CHM 412. Intermediate Organic Chemistry. 3 Hours

CHM 412 is an upper-level course that examines the principles of physical organic chemistry with an emphasis on the relationship between molecular structure, thermodynamics, and chemical reactivity. The course explores modern theoretical approaches used to understand organic reactions, including models of chemical bonding, resonance, molecular orbital theory, and the electronic structure of reactive intermediates. Through lectures, problem-solving, and analytical exercises, students develop the ability to apply physical organic principles to understand and predict the behavior of organic reactions and reactive intermediates. Prerequisite(s): CHM 314.

CHM 415. Analytical Chemistry. 2 Hours

This course examines the theory and application of chemical methods used to identify and quantify matter. Students study chemical equilibria, data treatment and statistics, and both classical and instrumental analytical techniques, including spectroscopy, electrochemistry, and gas and liquid chromatography. Emphasis is placed on method selection, accuracy and precision, and detection limits. The course develops problem-solving skills and analytical reasoning essential for laboratory research, industrial applications, and advanced study in the chemical sciences. Prerequisite(s): CHM 201, CHM 201L or equivalent.

CHM 415L. Analytical Chemistry Laboratory. 2 Hours

This course provides practical training in modern analytical techniques used to obtain qualitative and quantitative chemical information. Students conduct experiments involving sample preparation, calibration, and data analysis while applying classical and instrumental methods such as spectroscopy, chromatography (gas and liquid), and electrochemical analysis. Emphasis is placed on accuracy, precision, and error analysis, as well as proper laboratory practice and documentation. Through experimental work and formal reporting, students develop the technical skills and critical thinking needed for professional laboratory and research environments. Corequisite(s): CHM 415.

CHM 417. Inorganic Chemistry. 3 Hours

An advanced course in modern inorganic chemistry. Atomic structure, principles of bonding and structure, acid-base chemistry, periodicity, coordination compounds, nonaqueous solvents, electrochemistry, molecular symmetry, organometallic compounds, and the chemistry of selected representative elements. Prerequisite(s): CHM 314.

CHM 418L. Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory. 1 Hour

Laboratory course dealing with the synthesis and characterization of inorganic and organometallic compounds. Topics include vacuum and inert atmosphere techniques, separation and purification, spectroscopic characterization, X-ray diffraction, magnetic moment, and conductance measurements. Prerequisite(s): CHM 201L, CHM 314L. Corequisite(s): CHM 417.

CHM 418L.. Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory. 1-1 Hours

CHM 420. Biochemistry. 3 Hours

The fundamental aspects of the chemistry and biochemistry of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Enzymology, protein purification, bioenergetics, metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids, nucleotides and nucleic acids, elementary molecular biology, and control processes are described. Acceptable preparation for medical school. Prerequisite(s): CHM 314.

CHM 420L. Biochemistry Lab for the Medical Sciences. 1 Hour

A laboratory course to accompany CHM420, biochemistry. Prerequisite(s): CHM314, CHM314L. Corequisite(s): CHM420.

CHM 426. Biosynthetic Organic Chemistry. 3 Hours

CHM 426 examines the biosynthesis of natural products from the perspective of organic reaction mechanisms and molecular construction strategies used in living systems. The course begins with a brief review of key organic chemistry concepts, including functional groups, stereochemistry, and reaction mechanisms, followed by an introduction to important biosynthetic building blocks, enzymes, and coenzymes involved in biological bond-forming reactions. Students then explore the major biosynthetic pathways responsible for the formation of natural products, including the acetate pathway, the mevalonate pathway, and the shikimic acid pathway. These pathways are used to illustrate the biosynthesis of important classes of natural products such as fatty acids, polyketides, terpenoids, steroids, phenols, flavonoids, and alkaloids. Throughout the course, emphasis is placed on understanding the mechanistic logic of enzymatic transformations and the organic chemistry principles that underlie biological synthesis of complex molecules. Prerequisite(s): CHM 314 or equivalent.

CHM 427. Medicinal Chemistry. 3 Hours

CHM 427 surveys the major classes of therapeutic drugs and the chemical principles that govern how these agents work in the body. The course focuses on the mechanisms of action of drugs and the relationship between chemical structure and biological activity. Students examine how drug molecules interact with biological targets such as enzymes, receptors, and nucleic acids, and how structural features influence pharmacological effects, metabolism, and toxicity. Major drug classes discussed include antibacterial agents, antiviral drugs, anticancer agents, central nervous system drugs, cardiovascular agents, and analgesics. Throughout the course, emphasis is placed on understanding how medicinal chemists use organic chemistry principles to explain drug activity, optimize drug structure, and design molecules that selectively interact with biological systems. Prerequisite(s): CHM 314; (CHM 420 or CHM 451); or instructor permission.

CHM 438. Sustainability and Chemistry. 3 Hours

Chemical industrial practices drive many sustainability challenges in the near and long term. Many chemical technologies can address the sustainability of these practices as long as the costs (monetary and environmental) of such innovations are accurately presented and evaluated. Sustainability and Chemistry is an advanced 1 semester course describing chemical concepts and principles that underlie the foundations for a more sustainable world. This course analyzes the root chemical and societal causes of unsustainable practices in chemical transformations in our everyday life, and explores techniques to evaluate them. The core technologies discussed will be deeply integrated in the current environmental, economic, and social pillars of modern society. We will specifically address green chemistry principles with learning how to create and manage life cycle assessments (cradle to grave) with computational tools. We will also discuss molecular design to reduce hazards to the environment, and how we can establish practices to quantitatively evaluate the health and safety of core chemical technologies. Prerequisites: CHM 102 or CHM123 or any fundamental chemistry, sustainability, biology, or engineering courses that include sustainability ideas with permission.

CHM 450. Advanced Organic Synthesis. 3 Hours

Fundamentals of synthesis and transformations of organic compounds, with emphasis on mechanisms; pericyclic reactions; small and medium ring synthesis; chemoselectivity, regioselectivity, stereoselectivity, retrosynthesis, functional group transformations, carbon-carbon bond forming reactions, oxidations, reductions and protecting groups. Prerequisite: (CHM 314, CHM 314L) or equivalent.

CHM 451. General Biochemistry I. 3 Hours

Introduction to the biochemistry and structure/function relationships of proteins, carbohydrates, nucleic acids, and lipids, and in-depth treatment of enzymology, biological membranes, solute transport, and biosignaling. Recommended for students desiring entry into graduate and health professional schools. Prerequisite(s): CHM 314.

CHM 452. General Biochemistry II. 3 Hours

Introduction to bioenergetics and metabolism with an in-depth treatment of the breakdown and synthesis of carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids, and nucleotides and the integration and hormonal regulation of those pathways. DNA information pathways, including the structure of genes and genomes and mechanisms of DNA replication, transcription, and translation as time permits. Recommended for students desiring entry into graduate and health professional schools. Prerequisite(s): CHM 451.

CHM 454. Rational Drug Design. 3 Hours

Introduction to drug target selection, lead compound discovery, and application of structure-activity relationships and computational chemistry towards refinement and optimization of lead compounds and their derivatives. Use of molecular graphics software and publicly available macromolecular structure databases will provide the foundation for evaluating macromolecular models of drug targets and allow a hands-on exploration of the structure/function relationships of proteins that have been successful targets of rational drug design. Prerequisite(s): (CHM 420 or CHM 452) or equivalent.

CHM 458. Metabolism and Human Disease. 3 Hours

This course examines the connections between metabolism, human disease and diet with an emphasis placed on current research related to these topics. Prerequisites: Undergraduate biochemistry course that covers metabolism CHM 420, CHM 452, HSS 307 or BIO 403.

CHM 462L. Biochemistry Laboratory. 1 Hour

Laboratory course to accompany CHM 451, General Biochemistry I, and CHM 452, General Biochemistry II. Provides students with hands-on experience in common techniques and approaches used in biochemistry research such as spectrophotometry, pH and buffers, protein purification, electrophoresis, enzymology, protein structure analysis, PCR, DNA restriction, and fundamentals of molecular cloning. Corequisite(s): CHM 452.

CHM 463L. Bioanalytical Chemistry Laboratory. 1 Hour

Introduction to analytical methods in current use in biochemistry. Course will focus on separations and spectroscopic methods for the analysis of biomolecules. Prerequisite(s): CHM 201, CHM 201L, CHM 302.

CHM 477. Honors Thesis Project. 3 Hours

First of two courses leading to the selection, design, investigation, and completion of an independent, original Honors Thesis project under the guidance of a faculty research advisor. Restricted to students in the University Honors Program with permission of the program director and department chairperson. Students pursuing an interdisciplinary thesis topic may register for three semester hours each in two separate disciplines in consultation with the department chairpersons. Prerequisite(s): Approval of University Honors Program.

CHM 478. Honors Thesis Project. 3 Hours

Second of two courses leading to the selection, design, investigation, and completion of an independent, original Honors Thesis project under the guidance of a faculty research advisor. Restricted to students in the University Honors Program with permission of the program director and department chairperson. Students pursuing an interdisciplinary thesis topic may register for three semester hours each in two separate disciplines in consultation with the department chairpersons. Prerequisite(s): Approved 477; approval of University Honors Program.

CHM 480. Professional Practices Seminar. 1 Hour

Practicum which culminates in the presentation of a technical talk on a topic in chemistry to peers and faculty members. Emphasis on the molecular scale of observation.

CHM 490. Seminar IV. 1 Hour

Presentation of a research topic during the weekly seminar series for the Department of Chemistry.

CHM 495. Introduction to Research Seminar. 0 Hours

Research topics presented by visiting scientists and faculty, and the results of thesis research by senior students. Required of all junior chemistry and biochemistry majors in the B.S. programs. Grading Option two.

CHM 496. Professional Practices Seminar. 0 Hours

After discussions of the chemical literature and information retrieval, resumes, graduate education, and career opportunities, students present technical talks on topics with social, ethical, or historical implications. Required of all chemistry and biochemistry majors, both B.S. and B.A.

CHM 497. Research Seminar. 0 Hours

A series of seminars as described under CHM 495. Required of all senior chemistry and biochemistry majors in the B.S. programs.

CHM 498. Research & Thesis. 3 Hours

All students in the B.S. programs including co-op students are required to enroll for a minimum of three semester hours in a research course (CHM 498). Students may take additional research semester hours (CHM 499) if the work extends for more than two semesters. Successful completion of research courses requires the submission of a typewritten thesis and the presentation of a seminar. With the prior approval of the department chairperson, B.S. co-op students may substitute work experience for research. Prerequisite(s): Permission of department chairperson.

CHM 499. Research & Thesis. 1-3 Hours

All students in the B.S. programs including co-op students are required to enroll for a minimum of three semester hours in a research course (CHM 498). Students may take additional research semester hours (CHM 499) if the work extends for more than two semesters. Successful completion of research courses requires the submission of a typewritten thesis and the presentation of a seminar. With the prior approval of the department chairperson, B.S. co-op students may substitute work experience for research. Prerequisite(s): CHM 498; permission of department chairperson.