White Background with Triangle Pattern

Course Descriptions

A chemistry degree is excellent preparation for medical school and related fields, and also for careers in business, law or education. Many students, including chemistry majors, may be interested in a second major or minor in biochemistry and molecular biology. Other common choices include biology, chemical engineering and mathematics.

Professors Allison, Brandt, R. DeVasher, Erwin, Hoffman, Morris, Mottel, Mueller, Tilstra, Weatherman and Wilson.

Chemistry - Course Descriptions

CHEM 111 General Chemistry I 3R-0L-3C F,W,S
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites for this course.
Corequisites: CHEM 111L

Topics include stoichiometry, nomenclature, phases, and writing balanced chemical equations. Quantum theory is introduced in relation to chemical applications. Atomic structure is introduced. Bonding principles and molecular structure are discussed in terms of Lewis Dot Structures, Valence Bond Theory, VSEPR Theory, Hybridization, and Molecular Orbital Theory.
CHEM 111L General Chemistry I Laboratory 0R-3L-1C F,W,S
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites for this course.
Corequisites: CHEM 111

Fundamental chemistry laboratory skills are introduced along with data analysis in support of topics presented in CHEM111 recitation.
CHEM 112 Chemistry Honors 4R-3L-5C F
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: Advanced placement
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

An accelerated course covering topics in CHEM 111 and CHEM 113. Upon successful completion of this course, an additional 3 credits will be awarded. Enrollment is limited to those students who complete the Rose-Hulman online Chemistry Advanced Placement Examination given prior to the freshman orientation period.
CHEM 113 General Chemistry II 3R-0L-3C W,S
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 111, and CHEM 111L
Corequisites: CHEM 113L

Topics in this course include the fundamentals of thermodynamics and kinetics. The fundamentals of chemical equilibrium are introduced. Definitions of acid and bases are discussed utilizing the Bronsted-Lowry and Lewis models. Nuclear chemistry is also included.
CHEM 113L General Chemistry II Laboratory 0R-3L-1C W,S
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 111, and CHEM 111L
Corequisites: CHEM 113

Fundamental chemistry laboratory skills are introduced along with data analysis in support of topics presented in CHEM113 recitation.
CHEM 115 General Chemistry III 3R-0L-3C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 113, and CHEM 113L or CHEM 112
Corequisites: CHEM 115L

Topics in this course include acid-base reactions, electrochemistry, and coordination chemistry.
CHEM 115L General Chemistry III Laboratory 0R-3L-1C W,S
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 113, and CHEM 113L or CHEM 112
Corequisites: CHEM 115

Fundamental chemistry laboratory skills are introduced along with data analysis in support of topics presented in CHEM113 recitation.
CHEM 200 Career Preparation 1R-0L-1C W
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites for this course.
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

This course is for chemistry and biochemistry majors to be taken in the second year. The course addresses career choices, summer opportunities, employment and graduate school preparation, and curriculum vitae and resumes preparation. Cross-listed with MA200, and SV200.
CHEM 225 Analytical Chemistry 3R-0L-3C F,S
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 115, and CHEM 115L
Corequisites: CHEM 225L

This laboratory-driven course is an introduction to classical and modern quantitative analysis with emphasis on calculations, separations, and precise and accurate measurements. Theoretical and practical perspectives of chemical analysis are considered. Chemical instrumentation includes recording pH/mV meters, constant rate burets, colorimeters, spectrophotometers, high performance liquid chromatographs and gas-liquid chromatographs.
CHEM 225L Analytical Chemistry Laboratory 0R-3L-1C F,S
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 115, and CHEM 115L
Corequisites: CHEM 225

This course represents the laboratory component of analytical chemistry. Practicums are part of the grade along with reports.
CHEM 251 Organic Chemistry I 3R-0L-3C F
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 113, and CHEM 113L or CHEM 112
Corequisites: CHEM 251L

An introduction to the classification of organic compounds, their structural features, including stereochemistry, and concepts related to reaction mechanisms and synthetic methods.
CHEM 251L Organic Chemistry I Laboratory 0R-3L-1C F
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 113, and CHEM 113L or CHEM 112
Corequisites: CHEM 251

Organic Laboratory techniques are developed along with appropriate spectroscopic methods. Assessment is in part via practicums. Computational chemistry methods and green chemistry approaches are also introduced.
CHEM 252 Organic Chemistry II 3R-0L-3C W
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 251, and CHEM 251L
Corequisites: CHEM 252L

Continuation of Organic Chemistry I with greater emphasis on reaction mechanisms and synthesis, and an introduction to the methods used to determine structure, including IR and NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry.
CHEM 252L Organic Chemistry II Laboratory 0R-3L-1C W
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 251, and CHEM 251L
Corequisites: CHEM 252

A continuation of CHEM251L where additional, more complicated synthetic techniques and methods along with additional spectroscopic techniques are introduced. Assessment is in part via practicums.
CHEM 253 Organic Chemistry III 3R-0L-3C S
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 252, and CHEM 252L
Corequisites: CHEM 253L

Study of carbanions, classical and non-classical carbocations, polyfunctional compounds, heterocyclics, orbital symmetry and more advanced reaction mechanisms, molecular rearrangements and syntheses.
CHEM 253L Organic Chemistry III Laboratory 0R-4L-1C S
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 252, CHEM 252L
Corequisites: CHEM 253

Project based laboratory where techniques and skills developed in the previous organic laboratories are applied to more open-ended problems.
CHEM 275 Special Topics in Chemistry (1-4)R-0L-(1-4)C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: Consent of instructor
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Studies in topics of current chemical interest not addressed in other named courses.
CHEM 276 Directed Laboratory Study in Chemistry 0R-3L-1C F
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: Consent of instructor
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Laboratory studies designed to supplement the background of entering students with an exceptional high school background in chemistry. This course is recommended for students entering with an AP 5 score.
CHEM 290 Chemical Research 0R-(4-8)L-(1-2)C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites for this course.
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Research performed under the direction of a faculty member selected by mutual agreement. This course is designed for research performed before taking CHEM291. Students may register for 1 to 2 credit hours per quarter.
CHEM 291 Introduction to Chemical Research 2R-4L-3C W
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 113, and CHEM 113L or CHEM 112
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Students will be introduced to skills necessary for conducting chemical research. Students will gain proficiency in: (1) literature searching of primary, secondary, and tertiary sources emphasizing the use of online databases; (2) laboratory skills involving synthesis, characterization, analysis, and keeping a notebook; (3) safety practice including MSDS interpretation; and (4) ethical conduct in collecting and reporting data and results. Students will also discuss research projects with at least three faculty members and be required to attend all seminars during the quarter.
CHEM 304 Glassblowing 1R-3L-1C S
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: Chemistry majors only or consent of instructor
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

A laboratory course in the manufacture, use and repair of scientific glassware. Six types of seals are constructed; a student-designed project is required.
CHEM 326 Bioanalytical Chemistry 3R-4L-4-C F
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 225, and CHEM 225L
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Addresses instrumental methods of analysis applicable to biochemistry including instrument design, operating principles, theory and application. Topics include molecular spectroscopic techniques in the infrared, visible and ultraviolet regions, including luminescence and Raman spectroscopy. Separation techniques including liquid chromatography and capillary electrophoresis are also addressed.
CHEM 327 Advanced Analytical Chemistry 3R-4L-4C W
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 225, and CHEM 225L
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Addresses theory, operating principles, and application of instrumental methods for chemical analysis in the areas of atomic spectroscopy, x-ray techniques, gas chromatography and electroanalytical methods.
CHEM 330 Biochemistry I 4R-0L-4C F
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 252
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Includes the structure and function of biological molecules, enzyme kinetics and mechanisms, and the reactions, strategy, and regulation of carbohydrate metabolism.
CHEM 331 Biochemistry II 4R-0L-4C W
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 330, and BIO 210
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Includes the reactions, strategy, and regulation of the major metabolic pathways in humans and of selected pathways in plants, and the storage, repair, and transmission of genetic information.
CHEM 360 Introduction to Physical Chemistry for Engineers 4R-0L-4C W,S
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHE 303, CHE 304, and CHEM 115
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Introduction to quantum chemistry, statistical thermodynamics, electrochemistry, chemical kinetics, surface chemistry and colloid science.
CHEM 361 Physical Chemistry I 4R-2L-4C F
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 115, CHEM 115L, MA 212, and MA 381
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Covers the laws of thermodynamics, free energy, gases, phase equilibria and solutions. Emphasizes the applications of differential and integral calculus and includes an introduction to statistical thermodynamics and surface chemistry. The laboratory will meet for 4 hours on alternate weeks and will investigate topics associated with thermodynamics and phase equilibrium.
CHEM 362 Physical Chemistry II 3R-2L-4C W
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 361
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Covers chemical equilibria, statistical mechanics, kinetics and electrochemistry. The laboratory will meet for 4 hours on alternate weeks.
CHEM 363 Quantum Chemistry & Molecular Spectroscopy 4R-0L-4C S
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 111, CHEM 111L, MA 212, and PH 112
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Covers elementary quantum mechanics with emphasis on applications in molecular structure.
CHEM 391 Research Proposal 1R-0L-1C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 291
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

CHEM 395 Chemistry Seminar 0R-0L-0C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites for this course.
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Students will be required to attend and/or present research seminars, the number to be determined by the department. The students will register for the course in the fall of the third year and if all the requirements are met, the students will receive a grade of Satisfactory. Failure to meet the requirements during the fall quarter will result in No Grade and the student must complete the requirements by the end of the third year. If the requirements are not completed by the end of the third year, a grade of Unsatisfactory is assigned and must be rectified to meet graduation requirements.
CHEM 420 Electronics for Scientists 3R-4L-4C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 326 or CHEM 327 or consent of instructor
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

A fundamental course on understanding important electronic systems as they pertain to chemical signals and instrumentation. Topics include analog systems (RC circuits, diodes, transistors, and operational amplifiers), digital systems (logic gates, shift registers, and lock-in amplifiers), and signal enhancement and noise reduction modules. The laboratory component will showcase basic circuit design and construction, and will culminate with a student-built chemical instrument.
CHEM 430 Advanced Biochemistry 4R-0L-4C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 330
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

An in-depth exploration of selected topics from the current biochemistry scientific literature, including molecular mechanisms of infectious diseases and genetic disorders, methods for rational drug design, and relationships between structure and function for biological molecules.
CHEM 433 Biochemistry Laboratory 0R-3L-lC
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 330
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Fundamental techniques employed in isolation, characterization and study of biomolecules, and enzyme kinetics. Techniques used may include homogenization, solvent extraction, centrifugation, salt fractionation, chromatography, and electrophoresis.
CHEM 441 Inorganic Chemistry I 4R-0L-4C F
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 252, CHEM 362, CHEM 360
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

The chemistry of non-metals. This course consists of a systematic study of the properties and reactions of the elements and their compounds based upon modern theories of the chemical bond, as well as from the viewpoint of atomic structure and the periodic law.
CHEM 442 Inorganic Chemistry II 3R-4L-4C W
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 441
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

The chemistry of metals. Modern theories such as valence bond, molecular orbital, electrostatic and ligand field are used to explain the properties of complex ions. Synthesis and characterization of complexes are done in the lab.
CHEM 451 Organic Structure Determination 2R-8L-4C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 253 or instructor consent
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Chemical and spectroscopic identification of organic compounds. Study of nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry, infrared spectroscopy and other techniques applied to structure elucidation and stereochemistry.
CHEM 470 Special Topics in Chemistry (1-4)R-0L-(1-4)C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: or instructor consent
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Studies in advanced topics of current chemical interest not addressed in other named courses.
CHEM 476 Directed Laboratory Study in Chemistry 0R-4L-1C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: To be taken concurrently with the appropriate elective not accompanied by an identified laboratory component.
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Laboratory studies designed to supplement an area concentration in organic, inorganic, analytical, physical, or some other field of chemistry.
CHEM 477 Directed Study in Chemistry (1-4)R-0L-(1-4)C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: or instructor consent
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Allows individual study in a topic not usually offered. A student may take 1 to 4 credits. A maximum of 4 credits is permitted.
CHEM 490 Chemical Research 0R-(4-12)L-(1-3)C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 291
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Research performed under the direction of a faculty member selected by mutual agreement. Students may register for 1 to 3 credit hours per quarter.
CHEM 491 Research Thesis 1R-0L-1C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 490
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Students will publish a thesis on their undergraduate research. The thesis will be written under the direction of a faculty member of record for the student’s CHEM490 or by other faculty member selected by mutual agreement.
CHEM 495 Chemistry Seminar 0R-0L-0C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites for this course.
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Students will be required to attend research seminars. If the requirement is not completed by the end of the quarter, a grade of Unsatisfactory is assigned and must be rectified to meet graduation requirements.
CHEM 496 Chemistry Seminar 0R-0L-0C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites for this course.
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Students will be required to attend research seminars. If the requirement is not completed by the end of the quarter, a grade of Unsatisfactory is assigned and must be rectified to meet graduation requirements.
CHEM 497 Research Presentation 1R-0L-1C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 490
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Students will deliver a professional seminar on their undergraduate research. A student must have at least three credit hours of CHEM490. The seminar will be prepared under the direction of a faculty member of record for the student’s CHEM490 or by other faculty member selected by mutual agreement.
CHEM 520 Electronics for Scientists 3R-4L-4C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 326 or CHEM 327 or consent of instructor
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

A fundamental course on understanding important electronic systems as they pertain to chemical signals and instrumentation. Topics include analog systems (RC circuits, diodes, transistors, and operational amplifiers), digital systems (logic gates, shift registers, and lock-in amplifiers), and signal enhancement and noise reduction modules. The laboratory component will showcase basic circuit design and construction, and will culminate with a student-built chemical instrument. For graduate credit there will be an additional project beyond the requirements for CHEM420. A student may not take both CHEM420 and CHEM520 for credit.
CHEM 530 Advanced Biochemistry 4R-0L-4C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 330
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

An in-depth exploration of selected topics from the current biochemistry scientific literature, including molecular mechanisms of infectious diseases and genetic disorders, methods for rational drug design, and relationships between structure and function for biological molecules. Students enrolled in CHEM 530 must complete a project not covered in CHEM 430. A student may not receive credit for both CHEM 430 and CHEM 530.
CHEM 531 Biochemical Instrumentation 3R-4L-4C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: BIO 210, and CHEM 330
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

This project-based course includes approaches for the analysis of biochemical experimental problems, experimental design for molecular biology and biochemistry, and the theoretical basis and practical aspects of operating instruments used in biochemical research.
CHEM 532 Biochemical Pharmacology 4R-0L-4C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 330
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Topics include medicinal chemistry and molecular pharmacology. The topics will also include a survey of potential drug targets, the molecular interactions between drugs and their targets, the drug discovery and development process and case studies of drugs treating diseases such as cancer, bacterial and viral infection, and neurological disorders.
CHEM 545 Organometallic Chemistry 4R-0L-4C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 115, and CHEM 252
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

A survey of the chemistry of main group organometallic compounds and organo-transition metal complexes. Reaction mechanisms and uses in organic synthesis and catalysis are studied.
CHEM 552 Synthetic Organic Chemistry 4R-0L-4C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 253
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

A survey of contemporary methodology in organic synthesis. Retrosynthetic analysis, functional group transformations, condensation chemistry, and organometallic reagents will be stressed. Includes computer assisted synthesis.
CHEM 554 Theoretical Organic Chemistry 4R-0L-4C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 253, and CHEM 361 or CHEM 360 or permission of instructor
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Study of physical and chemical methods used to investigate organic reaction mechanisms; the chemistry of carbenes; organic photochemistry.
CHEM 555 Natural Products 4R-0L-4C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 253 or permission of instructor
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

A study of naturally occurring materials such as carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids, terpenes and steroids. The course also entails a discussion of synthesis, biosynthesis, structure elucidation, selected degradation and other reactions as well as some medicinal characteristics of selected natural products.
CHEM 557 Synthetic Polymer Chemistry 4R-0L-4C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 252
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Polymer synthesis, reactions, and applications. Organic chemistry of polymer synthesis and modification. Design of polymer systems that meet certain performance criteria or have desirable physical properties.
CHEM 561 Advanced Physical Chemistry 4R-0L-4C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 363
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Addresses a variety of topics in quantum mechanics, statistical thermodynamics or kinetics.
CHEM 562 Physical Polymer Chemistry 4R-0L-4C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: CHEM 361 or CHE 303
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Physical behavior of polymers. Physical properties, molecular weight determination, relationship between morphology and mechanical properties.
CHEM 570 Special Topics in Chemistry (1-4)R-0L-(1-4)C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: permission of instructor
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Studies in advanced topics of current chemical interest not addressed in other named courses. If cross-listed with CHEM470, students in CHEM570 will need to complete an additional project.
CHEM 595 Chemistry Seminar 0R-0L-0C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites for this course.
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Chemistry graduate students will be required to attend research seminars. If the requirement is not completed by the end of the quarter, a grade of Unsatisfactory is assigned and must be rectified to meet graduation requirements.
CHEM 596 Chemistry Seminar 0R-0L-0C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites for this course.
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Chemistry graduate students will be required to attend research seminars. If the requirement is not completed by the end of the quarter, a grade of Unsatisfactory is assigned and must be rectified to meet graduation requirements.
CHEM 597 Chemistry Seminar 0R-0L-0C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites for this course.
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Chemistry graduate students will be required to attend research seminars. If the requirement is not completed by the end of the quarter, a grade of Unsatisfactory is assigned and must be rectified to meet graduation requirements.
CHEM 599 Thesis Research As assigned
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites for this course.
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Graduate students only. Credits as assigned; however, not more than 12 credits will be applied toward the requirements of the M.S. degree.
CHEM CPT Curricular Practical Training 1R-0L-1C
Graduate Studies Eligible: No
Prerequisites: Consent of Department Head
Corequisites: There are no corequisites for this course.

Any international student with an F-1 Visa employed by any company in the form of an internship, co-op, or practicum must enroll in a CPT course. The CPT experience is to be complimentary training to the student's curriculum and should contribute substantially to his/her learning experience. Students must have an offer of employment from a company prior to registering for this course. The CPT must be approved by the Department Head, Director of International Student Services, and the student's advisor. Students are required to submit a report at the conclusion of the employment to his/her instructor to receive a grade for the CPT experience.
Launch Root Quad
Return to Top