Chemistry & Biochemistry

Chemistry is sometimes called the "central science" because of its importance in other fields such as biology, agriculture, medicine, geology, nutrition, law enforcement, and engineering. Without knowledge of chemistry the human race could not grow enough food, combat disease, drink clean water, clothe ourselves, create artwork . . . That is why so many degree programs require familiarity with chemistry as part of the curriculum.

Here's a quick and easy test - answer "yes" or "no" to these questions:

• Do you like to work with your hands as well as your head?
• Do you like to explore how the world in and around you is put together?
• Do you like to use computers and electronic instruments?
• Do you like to do practical things?
• Do you try to figure out "what's going on" when you see an unusual phenomenon?
• Do you find yourself fascinated by things that change color?
• Do you ever wonder how many molecules of water are in a raindrop?

If you answered "yes" to any of the questions, maybe you should think about a major in chemistry or biochemistry because these are the kinds of things chemists and biochemists get to do!

With a major in chemistry or biochemistry you can become: a research scientist in a government, industrial, or academic lab; a teacher, patent lawyer, physician, forensic scientist, pharmacist, hazardous materials manager, science writer, technical sales expert - to name but a few choices. Because students in chemistry and biochemistry programs are trained to think analytically, use computers, and express themselves clearly, graduates are also hired by "non-chemistry" employers. Recent chemistry and biochemistry graduates of St. Scholastica have gone on to pursue Ph.D. and M.S. degrees, to medical schools, law school, and to employment in private industry.

The Chemistry Department at St. Scholastica offers majors in both chemistry (B.A. or B.S. degree) and bio-chemistry (B.S. degree). Additionally, licensure for teaching high school chemistry is offered in collaboration with The College's Education Department. Each major affords a strong background in the basics of inorganic, organic, and analytical chemistry. The chemistry major provides opportunities for more detailed study in these areas and physical chemistry; in comparison, the biochemistry major provides time for coursework in anatomy, physiology, and genetics. Students who wish to attend graduate school or seek employment in chemistry should choose the chemistry major, while the biochemistry major is especially suited to students seeking admittance to graduate work in biochemistry or medical (dental, pharmacy, physician assistant) school.

Advantages of Being a St. Scholastica Chemistry or Biochemistry Major

• personal attention from the faculty in a small department;
• science education complemented by strong liberal arts program;
• opportunity to participate in faculty research projects;
• availability of paid jobs as teaching assistants and general assistants;
• state-of-the-art instrumentation and computer facilities;
• high placement rate for department graduates;
• homemade ice cream and pizza parties!

Recommended High School Preparation

To complete the bachelor's degree in chemistry or biochemistry in four years you should have successfully taken one year each of high school chemistry (with a lab), physics, biology, and mathematics through precalculus. If your background in math or chemistry is deficient, you may need to take remedial classes before beginning the major sequence or complete some general education requirements in summer school to graduate in four years.

Scholarships and Grants

All students with demonstrated financial need are eligible to participate in the College's financial aid program - a combination of direct grants, loans, and work-study. Students with strong high school records and community college graduates may apply for a Benedictine scholarship.

Contact
Information

Course
Descriptions