Overview & Mission
Flowing from the mission of the College of Saint Elizabeth, the Chemistry and Biochemistry Program is committed to providing a basic knowledge of this liberal art to many students and a thorough undergraduate chemical and biochemical education to its majors. It demands of them honesty, accuracy, and clarity in the carrying out and reporting of their work. Through the precision of chemistry and biochemistry it strives to discipline their minds and by chemistry’s and biochemistry’s ever-increasing insight into the truths of nature it endeavors to widen their vision. The program encourages its majors to contribute to the discovery of these truths by their research.
Student Outcomes
After successfully completing a major in chemistry or biochemistry, the student will have developed:
- A proficiency at experimental work as it pertains to planning and executing experiments using the literature, manipulating chemicals, keeping records, analyzing and interpreting data and completing a research project.
- An ability to effectively and accurately communicate their findings to the science and non-science community in written and oral form.
- An understanding of molecular functionality, bonding, and reactivity as it pertains to reaction mechanisms, synthesis, kinetics, and the thermodynamic laws governing organic, inorganic and biochemical systems.
- An understanding of the use and principles governing the interaction of matter with radiation, including spectral interpretation regarding the nature of bonding in molecules and the electronic structure of atoms.
- An understanding of the biochemical processes in living systems and the structures that support them, and the ability to manipulate, isolate, and purify biologically important materials.
- An understanding of analytical methods, organic techniques, and biochemical techniques used in carrying out chemical investigations.
In addition, biochemistry majors develop an in-depth knowledge of biology, cell function, genetics, microbiology, and biochemical analysis techniques.
Graduates
Students completing the degree in chemistry or biochemistry are equipped with the skills to succeed in scientific and science-related careers. Our students are prepared for advanced educational pursuits in graduate or professional schools. More than half of CSE chemistry and biochemistry graduates go on to receive Ph.D.’s and M.D.’s from major graduate and medical schools, such as:
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- Virginia Commonwealth University
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Graduates in chemistry and biochemistry from CSE work in a variety of careers:
Some examples of industrial positions held by CSE graduates include analytical chemists, biochemists, medicinal chemists, and research chemists in the pharmaceutical, environmental, and personal care industries at the following:
Chemistry & Biochemistry Program
Degrees Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
- Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry
- Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with a Concentration in Forensic Science
- Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry with a Concentration in Forensic Science
- Minor in Chemistry
- Minor in Forensic Science
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
- CHEM151 General Chemistry I Lecture and Lab (4)
- CHEM153 General Chemistry II Lecture and Lab (4)
- CHEM211 Organic Chemistry I Lecture and Lab (4)
- CHEM213 Organic Chemistry II Lecture and Lab (4)
- CHEM301 Physical Chemistry I (4)
- CHEM303 Physical Chemistry II Lecture and Lab (4)
- CHEM317 Analytical Chemistry (4)
- CHEM323 Biochemistry I Lecture and Lab (4)
- CHEM337 Research (4)
- CHEM411 Inorganic Chemistry (4)
- CHEM433 Coordinating Seminar, Senior (1)
Total: 41
Related Requirements
- MATH151 Calculus I (4)
- MATH153 Calculus II (4)
- PHYS149 General Physics I (4)
- PHYS153 General Physics II (4)
Total: 16
Total credits for Bachelor of Science in Chemistry: 57
Capstone Requirement
Students will fulfill the capstone requirement by the successful completion of two comprehensive examinations: one written and one oral. Preparation for the comprehensive examinations will be offered through CHEM 433.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry
- CHEM151 General Chemistry I Lecture and Lab (4)
- CHEM153 General Chemistry II Lecture and Lab (4)
- CHEM211 Organic Chemistry I Lecture and Lab (4)
- CHEM213 Organic Chemistry II Lecture and Lab (4)
- CHEM301 Physical Chemistry I (4)
- CHEM323 Biochemistry I Lecture and Lab (4)
- CHEM325 Biochemistry II (4)
- CHEM337 Research (4)
- CHEM433 Coordinating Seminar, Senior (1)
- BIO111 Fundamentals of Biology I (4)
- BIO113 Fundamentals of Biology II (4)
- BIO209 Microbiology (4)
- BIO251 Cellular Biology (4)
- BIO413 Molecular Biology (4)
Total: 53
Related Requirements
- MATH151 Calculus I (4)
- MATH153 Calculus II (4)
- PHYS149 General Physics I (4)
- PHYS153 General Physics II (4)
Total: 16
Total credits for Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry: 69
Capstone Requirement
Students will fulfill the capstone requirement by the successful completion of two comprehensive examinations: one written and one oral. Preparation for the comprehensive examinations will be offered through CHEM 433.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with a Concentration in Forensic Science
- CHEM113* Introduction to Forensic Science (4)
- CHEM151 General Chemistry I Lecture and Lab (4)
- CHEM153 General Chemistry II Lecture and Lab (4)
- CHEM211 Organic Chemistry I Lecture and Lab (4)
- CHEM213 Organic Chemistry II Lecture and Lab (4)
- CHEM301 Physical Chemistry I (4)
- CHEM303 Physical Chemistry II Lecture and Lab (4)
- CHEM317 Analytical Chemistry (4)
- CHEM323 Biochemistry I Lecture and Lab (4)
- CHEM337 Research (4)
- CHEM411 Inorganic Chemistry (4)
- CHEM433 Coordinating Seminar, Senior (1)
- JUS101 Introduction to Justice Studies (2)
- JUS231 Criminal Procedure (4)
* Or equivalent approved by the program chairperson
Total: 51
Related Requirements
- MATH151 Calculus I (4)
- MATH153 Calculus II (4)
- PHYS149 General Physics I (4)
- PHYS153 General Physics II (4)
Total: 16
Total credits for Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with a concentration in Forensic Science: 67
Capstone Requirement
Students will fulfill the capstone requirement by the successful completion of two comprehensive examinations: one written and one oral. Preparation for the comprehensive examinations will be offered through CHEM 433.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry with a Concentration in Forensic Science
- CHEM113* Introduction to Forensic Science (4)
- CHEM151 General Chemistry I Lecture and Lab (4)
- CHEM153 General Chemistry II Lecture and Lab (4)
- CHEM211 Organic Chemistry I Lecture and Lab (4)
- CHEM213 Organic Chemistry II Lecture and Lab (4)
- CHEM301 Physical Chemistry I (4)
- CHEM323 Biochemistry I Lecture and Lab (4)
- CHEM325 Biochemistry II (4)
- CHEM337 Research (4)
- CHEM433 Coordinating Seminar, Senior (1)
- BIO111 Fundamentals of Biology I (4)
- BIO113 Fundamentals of Biology II (4)
- BIO209 Microbiology (4)
- BIO251 Cellular Biology (4)
- BIO413 Molecular Biology (4)
- JUS101 Introduction to Justice Studies (2)
- JUS231 Criminal Procedure (4)
* Or equivalent approved by the program chairperson
Total: 63
Related Requirements
- MATH151 Calculus I (4)
- MATH153 Calculus II (4)
- PHYS149 General Physics I (4)
- PHYS153 General Physics II (4)
Total: 16
Total credits for Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry with a Concentration in Forensic Science: 79
Capstone Requirement
Students will fulfill the capstone requirement by the successful completion of two comprehensive examinations: one written and one oral. Preparation for the comprehensive examinations will be offered through CHEM 433.
Requirements for the Minor in Chemistry
- CHEM121* or CHEM151 Introductory or General Chemistry I with Lab (4)
- CHEM123* or CHEM211 Introductory Organic or Organic Chemistry I with Lab (4)
- CHEM323 or CHEM325 or FN320 Biochem I or II or Nutritional Biochem (4)
- One more 200, 300 or 400 level 4 credit class approved by the program chairperson
* or equivalent approved by the program chairperson
Total: 16
Requirements for the Minor in Forensic Science
- CHEM113* Introduction to Forensic Science (4)
- CHEM151* Introductory or General Chemistry I with Lab (4)
- CHEM153 General Chemistry II Lecture and Lab (4)
- CHEM317 Analytical Chemistry (4)
- JUS101 Introduction to Justice Studies (2)
* or equivalent approved by the program chairperson
Total: 18
Program Chairperson
Office: Henderson Hall
Phone: 4024
Email: clee@cse.edu
Area Chairperson
Office: Henderson Hall
Phone: 4068
Email: prossi@cse.edu
Course Listing
Course level:
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CHEM-105
Science & Society*
Credit Hours: 3
A course for the non-science major which presents some problems of contemporary life in such a way that the student understands the influence chemistry and related sciences have in society. As topics are covered, the student will explore the interdependence of the earth, its resources, energy needs and consumption, environmental stressors, and life styles in both developed and developing countries. Throughout the course the student will be asked to evaluate the risk/benefit components of major issues facing modern society. Satisfies Cluster 3 or 5 General Education requirement. (Spring)
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CHEM-107
Chemistry & Environment*
Credit Hours: 3
A study of such topics as water pollution, air (indoor and outdoor) pollution, waste disposal, sewage treatment, and soil degradation. Satisfies Cluster 3 General Education requirement.
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CHEM-113
Intro to Forensic Science*
Credit Hours: 4
- This course focuses on crime scene investigation and evidence analysis. Topics covered include fingerprinting, ballistics, arson, blood testing, etc. Hands-on experience will be gained in the collection and preservation of evidence as well as the basic techniques used for analysis and comparison including, polymerase chain reaction, fingerprinting, chromatography, spectroscopy, etc. Class meets 6 hours per week for lecture/lab. Satisfies cluster 3 of the general education requirement. 4crs.
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CHEM-121
Intro to Chemistry*
Credit Hours: 4
- This course is an integrated approach to the basic concepts of chemistry. Through theory and practical application students will be introduced to such topics as atomic theory, bonding, stoichiometry, states of matter, kinetics, thermochemistry, solutions chemistry and acid-base chemistry. First hand knowledge will be gained via practical inquiry which employs tools such as spectroscopy, density and solution analysis. Class meets 6 hours per week for lecture/lab in the fall semester. Satisfies cluster 3 of the general education requirement. 4crs.
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CHEM-123
Intro to Organic Chemistry*
Credit Hours: 4
- This course is an integrated approach to the basic concepts of organic chemistry. Aliphatic and aromatic functional groups will be covered from the perspective of structure-reactivity relationships. Students will investigate representative organic molecules using a theoretical foundation and technical applications such as distillation, recrystallization, chromatography, synthesis, etc. Class meets 6 hours per week for lecture/lab in the spring semester. Prerequisite: Chemistry 121. Satisfies cluster 3 of the general education requirement.
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CHEM-125
Women & Science:History,Health & Hope*
Credit Hours: 3
See description under BIO 125. Satisfies Cluster 3 or 5 General Education requirement.
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CHEM-151
Fundamental Principles of Chemistry I*
Credit Hours: 4
- This course presents chemistry as an extensive experimental science illuminated by developing theory. It is designed to use an integrated approach to convey the relevance of chemical principles and their application. Problem solving and experiential learning are used to illustrate and reinforce these principles and critical thinking skills. Topics include atomic theory, the periodic table, structure and bonding, solution chemistry, qualitative and quantitative analysis. Class meets 6 hours per week for lecture/lab in the fall semester. Prerequisite: High school chemistry recommended. Passing grades on basic arithmetic and basic algebra skills tests. Satisfies cluster 3 of the general education requirement. 4crs.
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CHEM-153
Fundamental Principles of Chemistry II*
Credit Hours: 4
- This course is a continuation of Chemistry 151 which utilizes the same approach to cover topics such as states of matter, intermolecular forces, thermodynamics, acid-base chemistry, kinetics, and electrochemistry. Class meets 6 hours per week for lecture/lab in the spring semester. Prerequisite: Chemistry 151. Satisfies cluster 3 of the general education requirement.
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CHEM-201
Intro to Biochemistry
Credit Hours: 4
- This course is an integrated approach to the basic concepts of biochemistry. The structure, properties and functions of biological molecules will be studied utilizing a theoretical foundation for practical investigations. Topics covered include protein structure, enzyme catalysis, and metabolism. Class meets 4 hours per week for lecture/lab in the fall semester. Prerequisite: Chemistry 123
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CHEM-207
Fld Exp Emergency Medicine
Credit Hours: 1
This course will provide the opportunity for clinical research and training at Morristown Memorial Hospital's Emergency Department. This will be achieved by a combination of involvement in clinical research studies, attending a structured lecture series, and completing a weekly learning log. Successful completion of the course requires volunteering in the emergency room eight hours per week for twelve weeks (for 0 or 1 credit) or for four hours a week for twelve weeks (for 0 or 1 credit), attending the five didactic lectures on medical research, and demonstrating mastery of this material through a short test. Prior approval for registration is required and can be obtained from the CSE course coordinator. Graded: Pass/Fail.
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CHEM-211
Organic Chemistry
Credit Hours: 4
- This course utilizes an integrated approach to convey the theory and application of organic chemistry. The functional groups studied include aliphatic hydrocarbons, alkyl halides, alcohols and ethers. Emphasis is placed on structure, molecular properties, conformational analysis, stereochemistry, reactions and their mechanisms. Problem solving and experiential learning are used to illustrate and reinforce these principles and critical thinking skills. Techniques such as chromatography, distillation, recrystallizaton, synthesis, extraction, etc. will be used to support these studies. Class meets 6 hours per week for lecture/lab in the fall semester. Prerequisite: Chemistry 153.
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CHEM-213
Organic Chemistry II
Credit Hours: 4
- This course is a continuation of Chemistry 211 which utilizes the same approach to cover such topics as aromaticity, the carbonyl functional groups, synthesis and spectroscopy. Experience will be gained with advanced chromatographic techniques and spectroscopic instrumentation for structure elucidation. Class meets 6 hours per week for lecture/lab in the spring semester. Prerequisite: Chemistry 211.
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CHEM-301
Physical Chemistry I
Credit Hours: 4
- This course utilizes an integrated approach to convey the theory and applications of thermodynamics and kinetics. Major topics covered include the laws of thermodynamics, enthalpy, entropy, energy, heat, work, and state functions. Practical applications and an inquiry-based approach will be employed to foster critical thinking and problem solving skills. Class meets 4 hours per week. Prerequisite: Chemistry 153, Physics 153, and Math 153
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CHEM-303
Physical Chemistry II
Credit Hours: 4
- This course is an integrated study of the quantum mechanical approach to atomic theory, molecular orbital theory, and spectroscopy. Practical application of physical principles and spectroscopy will be achieved through the use of instrumental methods of analysis. Class meets 6 hours per week for lecture/lab. Prerequisites: Chemistry 153, Physics 153 and Math 153.
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CHEM-317
Theory of Analytical Chemistry
Credit Hours: 4
- This course is an advanced study of the theory of analytical chemistry via process oriented guided inquiry learning. Quantitative and qualitative problem solving will be used to analyze data statistically, assess the reliability of results, interpret gravimetric analysis, perform titrimetic analyses, and examine the principles of electrochemistry. Class meets 4 hours per week. Prerequisite: Chemistry 153
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CHEM-323
Biochemistry I
Credit Hours: 4
- This course utilizes an integrated approach to convey the theory and applications of biochemistry. Major topics covered include buffer function, selection and preparation; protein isolation, purification, structure elucidation and analysis; enyzymatic catalysis; carbohydrate, nucleic acid and lipid structure. Case studies and process oriented guided inquiry learning methods are employed to foster critical thinking and problem solving skills. Class meets 6 hours per week for lecture/lab. Prerequisite: Chemistry 213.
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CHEM-325
Biochemistry II
Credit Hours: 4
- This course is a continuation of Chemistry 323 which focuses on carbohydrate, lipid and nitrogen metabolism. Emphasis is placed on the understanding of these biochemical processes at the molecular level. Case study learning methods are employed. Class meets 4 hours per week. Prerequisite: Chemistry 323.
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CHEM-337
Research
Credit Hours: 4
This course is a research class intended to better prepare students for more advanced research endeavors. The course will bridge the gap between simple introductory experimental work and the more sophisticated scientific undertakings of internships and graduate school. The approach will be to engage students in semester long research projects which foster mastery of more advanced laboratory techniques, utilize research grade instrumentation, require knowledge of the chemical literature, and hone their oral and written communication skills. Class meets 4 hours per week.
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CHEM-400
Advanced Research
Credit Hours: 0
- Pursuit of an advanced scientific research project after completion of CHEM337, under the supervision of an appropriate faculty member. May be taken for 0, 1, or 2 credits. Registration for 1 or 2 credits should be done in the Registrar's Office.
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CHEM-411
Inorganic Chemistry
Credit Hours: 4
- This course utilizes an integrated approach to convey the theory and applications of advanced inorganic chemistry. Major topics include the study of coordination compounds, molecular symmetry, crystal Field Theory, solid-state structures, electrochemistry, nuclear chemistry, and the study of transition metal complexes in biochemistry and catalysis. The relationship between the electronic, magnetic and structural properties of transition metal complexes and their reactivity will be studied. Class meets 4 hours per week. Prerequisite: Chemistry 303 or permission of the instructor.
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CHEM-433
Coordinating Seminar:Senior
Credit Hours: 1
- A course designed for seniors to assist them in coordinating their knowledge of the various fields of chemistry in preparation for the comprehensive examinations. The seminar stresses oral and written presentation of material and the use of visual aids. Class meets 1 hour per week in the fall semester.
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CHEM-451
Special Topics
Credit Hours: 4
- This course is a study of specific topics of interest in chemistry/biochemistry as determined by student interest and need. Class meets 4 hours per week.
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CHEM-491
Independent Study
Credit Hours: 4
- Offered at the discretion of the Program. Registration requires prior approval from Program Chairperson. Variable Credit, students may register for 1 to 4 credits.
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CHEM-495
Internship
Credit Hours: 0
- This course is designed to enable students to gain knowledge and experience working within a professional chemical research setting. Students will begin to develop a project under the supervision of a qualified external mentor. This project will be completed under the supervision of a CSE faculty member. Minimum of 90 hours required. Prerequisite:Chemistry of Biochemistry major and permission of the program chair. May be taken for 0, 1 or 2 credits. Registration for 1 or 2 credits should be done in the Registrar's Office.
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All chemistry and biochemistry majors are encouraged to participate in off-campus internships. Most students participate in summer research internships at major corporations, universities or institutions across the country. In addition to the stipend or salary received while participating in internships, students may use the research experience for Honors presentations or research presentations at professional meetings.
Students who are interested in medical school may participate in the Field Experience in Emergency Medicine offered by the program. Students will have the opportunity to participate in the Emergency Department at Morristown Medical Center. This experience involves a combination of clinical research studies, a structured lecture series, and keeping a weekly learning log.
Chemistry and biochemistry majors are encouraged to join the American Chemical Society (ACS) as a Student Member. As a member they will meet professional chemists and chemistry students from throughout the Northeast, attend meetings of the ACS, organize technical and social programs for CSE students and their counterparts in other North Jersey colleges and universities, and participate in all competitions held by these associations.
