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Chemistry

Information

Brant Kedrowski, Co-Chair

Kevin Crawford, Co-Chair 

Department Office: Halsey Science 432
Department Telephone: (920) 424-1400

 

CHEM

 

Faculty

Chan Geary Lense Rukamp Schuttlefield Christus  
Crawford Gutow Mihalick Tang Waters  
Dirlam-Schatz Kedrowski Rudd Wacholtz Xie  

Degrees

  • Undergraduate: A major in Chemistry can lead to the degree(s): Bachelor of Science; Bachelor of Science in Education.
  • Graduate: The Department does not offer a graduate program.

Summary of Fields of Study

  1. Goal(s)
  • Upon completion of a Chemistry major, students will be 1) knowledgeable about the factual and theoretical basis of chemistry, 2) competent to work in a laboratory situation, 3) familiar with the use and applications of modern instrumentation and computers, 4) able to communicate effectively, 5) access and retrieve specific chemical information from the chemical literature, 6) able to anticipate, recognize and respond properly to hazards of chemicals, 7) work cooperatively with others in problem solving situations and 8) identify the benefits and problems of modern chemistry for society.
  • The Major(s)
    • The Department offers a choice of three emphases within the Chemistry major. These are: 1) Professional, 2) Secondary Education, 3) Biomolecular Science.
    • Within the Professional emphasis there is a Biochemistry option.
  • The Minor(s)
    • The Department offers two minors: 1) Chemistry and 2) Chemistry (4-12) for education majors.

Admission/Graduation Requirements

  • To be eligible for graduation, students must meet all requirements for the degree being sought, in addition to earning a minimum grade point average of 2.00 in all courses required for the Chemistry major or minor.
  • Those students seeking Wisconsin teacher certification must earn a minimum grade point average of 2.75 in all courses required for their majors and minors in order to meet requirements of the College of Education and Human Services.

Required Core Courses

Chemistry

  • Chemistry 105
  • Chemistry 106
  • Chemistry 234
  • Chemistry 235
  • Chemistry 311
  • Chemistry 334
  • Chemistry 335
  • Chemistry 490
  • Chemistry 491
Note: All senior Chemistry majors are to enroll in Chemistry 490 one semester before the semester in which they will graduate. Chemistry 491 is to be taken the last semester.  Chemistry 474 (Honors Thesis) can be used to replace Chemistry 490 and Chemistry 491 providing that a) the topic of the Honors Thesis is in the field of Chemistry, b) the student attends the Chemistry Seminar classes for two semesters and c) the student presents his/her oral Thesis Seminar to the Chemistry Seminar program.

Math

  • Mathematics 171 or 175

Physics

  • Physics 191 and 192

Comment:
The Math and Physics courses in the core are not counted as part of the required minimum credits for any of the emphases/options.

 

The Major(s), with Emphases and/or Options

1. Chemistry Major

A. Professional Emphasis

The Professional Emphasis leads to a BS degree in Chemistry, which meets the requirements of the American Chemical Society for professional training.

  • Required Credits: 44 minimum
  • Required Courses: In addition to the Core Courses:
    • Chemistry: Chemistry 303, 312, 370, 371, 470
    • Math: Math 172, 273
    • Chemistry Electives: 3 credits from Chemistry 323, 360, 435, 452, 495*. Chemistry 495 may in combination count for up to three credits towards the three-credit requirement.
    • *A formal report is required.

     Biochemistry Option:

  • Required Credits: 46 minimum
  • Required Courses: In addition to the Core Courses and required courses for the Professional Emphasis:
    • Chemistry: Chemistry 304, 315
    • Biology: 3 credits of biology beyond the introductory level, which contains cell biology, microbiology, or genetics.

Comment:
Students are strongly encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity to enroll in the following individualized research/internship courses: Chemistry 246, 474, 495. Honors Thesis (Chemistry 474), and/or Chemistry Research Internship (Chemistry 495) may be counted towards graduation requirements, with a credit maximum six for Chemistry 246, six for Chemistry 474 and six for Chemistry 495.

B. Secondary Education Emphasis

Recommended for students who plan to enter the Secondary Education Program in preparation for teaching high school Chemistry.

  • Required Credits: 36 minimum
  • Required Courses: In addition to the Core Courses:
    • Chemistry: Chemistry 370, 371
    • Math: Math 172, 273
    • Electives: Sufficient to meet the Minimum Requirement including these studies:
      • Chemistry: Five credits of Chemistry courses at or above the 300 level (excluding Chemistry 495)

 

C. Biomolecular Science Emphasis

Recommended for students who are interested in interdisciplinary training and a career or postgraduate work in biotechnology related fields.

  • Required Credits: 69
  • Required Courses: In addition to the Core Courses:
    • Biology: Biology 105, 323, 343
    • One Advanced Molecular/Cellular Biology Course with Lecture and Lab: Biology 309, 319, 345, 450
      OR  One Advanced Molecular/Cellular Biology Lecture Course: Biology 315, 316, 341, 372, 389

AND One Advanced Molecular/Cellular Biology Laboratory Course: Biology 350, 374, 377, 390

  • Chemistry: Chemistry 303, 304, 315, 311 or 320, 365 or 370
  • Physics: Physics 171 or 191 and Physics 172 or 192
  • Math: Math 172 or 201 or 301 or Psychology 203 or Economics 210
  • Upper Level Electives: 3 credits to choose from any of the following not taken:
    • Biology: Biology 211, 212, 300, 301, 306, 309, 315, 316, 319, 338, 341, 345, 350, 354, 372, 374, 375, 377, 389, 390, 446, 450, 456, 474
    • Chemistry: Chemistry 323, 360, 435, 446, 456, 495
    • Psychology: Psychology 367, 383

 

The Minor(s)

1. Chemistry Minor

  • Required Credits: 22 minimum
  • Required Courses:
    • Chemistry: Chemistry 105, 106, 234, 235, 334, 335
    • Chemistry: Chemistry 311 or 303 and 320
  • Electives: None

2. Chemistry (4-12) Minor for education majors

Recommended for students who plan to complete a Middle and High School Natural Science Major.

  • Required Credits: 22 minimum
  • Required Courses:
    • Chemistry: Chemistry 105, 106, 234, 235, 334, 335
      • Chemistry 109/110 can be used to substitute for 105 and 106
    • Chemistry: Chemistry 221 or 311
  • Electives: If needed, select from upper level Chemistry courses not taken

 

 

Course Offerings

Chemistry    101 4 – 5 (crs.)
General, Organic and Biochemistry I (XL)
This is the first semester of the 1-year chemistry 101/102 course sequence, which is specifically designed to meet the needs of nursing students.  This sequence does not satisfy the prerequisites for higher-level chemistry courses.  Topics covered include: matter, energy, atomic structure, chemical reactions, chemical bonding, solutions, chemical equilibrium, and organic nomenclature.  Prerequisites:  A declared pre-nursing major, Medical Imaging, Biology Healthcare-Business, Kinesiology, or Elem Ed major, and Mathematics 103 with a grade of C or better, or qualifying for Mathematics 104 and higher via the Mathematics Placement Exam, or AAS-FOX, AAS-FDL, or AAS-OCE.  (3+2) (Fall-Spring) Special fees may apply.
 
 
Chemistry    102 1 – 4 (crs.)
General, Organic and Biochemistry II (XL)
This is the second semester of the 1-year Chemistry 101/102 course sequence.  Topics covered include:  the organic chemistry topics of alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, amines, and the biochemistry topics of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, enzymes, and metabolism. Prerequisites: Chemistry 101 or Chemistry 105 with a grade of C or better. (3+2) (Fall-Spring) Special fees may apply.
 
 
Chemistry    103 4 (crs.)
Introduction to Environmental Chemistry (XL)
This laboratory course will cover the chemistry of environmental topics such as: air pollution, ozone depletion, water pollution, acid rain, waste disposal and energy production. Occasionally tangentially related topics such as drug design and nutrition may be discussed.  This course may be combined with Chemistry 104, to form a two semester sequence for the Bachelor of Science degree.  NOTE: Chemistry 103 is not a prerequisite for higher level chemistry courses. Special fees may apply.
 
 
Chemistry    103Q2 4 (crs.)
Introduction to Environmental Chemistry (XL)
This laboratory course will cover the chemistry of environmental topics such as: air pollution, ozone depletion, water pollution, acid rain, waste disposal and energy production. Occasionally tangentially related topics such as drug design and nutrition may be discussed.  This course may be combined with Chemistry 104, to form a two semester sequence for the Bachelor of Science degree.  NOTE: Chemistry 103 is not a prerequisite for higher level chemistry courses. Special fees may apply. Cannot take both Chemistry 103Q2 and Chemistry 103 for credit.
 
 
Chemistry    104 4 (crs.)
Introduction to the Chemistry of Materials (XL)
This laboratory course will teach the chemistry behind materials that society depends on: metals, ceramics, and polymers.  Historic and economic impacts of their manufacture and use will be considered.  Applications of advanced materials in fields such as electronics, aviation or art will be discussed.  This course may be combined with Chemistry 103 to form a two-semester sequence for the Bachelor of Science degree.  Note:  Chemistry 104 is not a prerequisite for higher level chemistry courses.
 
 
Chemistry    104Q2 4 (crs.)
Introduction to the Chemistry of Materials (XL)
This laboratory course will teach the chemistry behind materials that society depends on: metals, ceramics, and polymers.  Historic and economic impacts of their manufacture and use will be considered.  Applications of advanced materials in fields such as electronics, aviation or art will be discussed.  This course may be combined with Chemistry 103 to form a two-semester sequence for the Bachelor of Science degree.  Note:  Chemistry 104 is not a prerequisite for higher level chemistry courses. Cannot take both Chemistry 104Q2 and Chemistry 104 for credit.
 
 
Chemistry    105 5 (crs.)
General Chemistry I (XL)
This is the first semester of the 1-year Chemistry 105/106 course sequence, which is specifically designed to meet the needs of science majors and preprofessional students. Topics covered include: atomic theory, atomic and electronic structure, chemical bonding, mole concept, stoichiometry, state of matter, formulas and equations, solutions and colloids. Prerequisites: Credit for or concurrent enrollment in Math 104, or completion/placement of any higher math course. Recommended: A previous course in High School or College Chemistry. (4+2) (Fall-Spring) Special fees may apply.
 
 
Chemistry    106 1 – 5 (crs.)
General Chemistry II (XL)
This is the second semester of the 1-year Chemistry 105/106 course sequence, which is specifically designed to meet the needs of science majors and preprofessional students.  Topics covered in Chemistry 106 include: molecular structure, chemistry of metals and selected nonmetals, intermolecular forces, chemical equilibrium.  Prerequisites: Chemistry 105 with a grade of (C) or better and either completion of Math 104 with a grade of C or better, completion/placement of any higher math course. (4+3) (Fall-Spring) Special fees may apply.
 
 
Chemistry    112 2 (crs.)
Foundations of Chemistry
Designed to prepare students with limited science backgrounds for success in Chemistry 101, 105, 106, or 165. Through lectures and discussions, this course emphasizes fundamental chemical concepts, chemical nomenclature and problem-solving skills. Credits earned in Chemistry 112 do not apply toward graduation.
 
 
Chemistry    122 3 (crs.)
Survey of Biochemistry
This is the second semester of the General Organic Biochemistry sequence, without the laboratory component. Topics covered include the organixc chemistry topics of alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, amines, and the biochemistry topics of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, enzymes, and metabolism. A student may not earn more than four credits by taking CHEM 122 and CHEM 102. Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in CHEM 101 or CHEM 105.
 
 
Chemistry    123 3 (crs.)
Chemistry and Society
A course for non-science majors that covers basic chemistry concepts in a social context. May include explorations of how chemistry impacts the environment, public health, energy policies, and other contemporary social issues. Consists of lectures and may also include discussions and demonstrations. Not a suitable prerequisite for higher-level chemistry courses or pre-professional programs.
 
 
Chemistry    124 4 (crs.)
Chemistry and Society (XL)
A course for non-science majors that covers basic chemistry concepts in a social context. May include explorations of how chemistry impacts the environment, public health, energy policies, and other contemporary social issues. Consists of lectures and laboratories and may also include discussion and demonstrations. Not a suitable prerequisite for higher-level chemistry courses or pre-professional programs.
 
 
Chemistry    165 5 (crs.)
Chemistry for Engineers (XL)
A one-semester chemistry course for engineering students. Topics include measurements, atomic theory, stoichiometry, molecular structure, thermochemistry, electrochemistry, solid state, material science, and organic chemistry. Prerequisite: Grade of C- or better in Chem 112 or Chem 101 or grade of B or higher in high school chemistry and a grade of C or better in Math 104 or 108 or placement into Math 171 based on placement test score, or permission from the instructor. Not suitable substitute for the Chem 105/106 prerequisite for organic chemistry.
 
 
Chemistry    230 1 (crs.)
Scientific Glassblowing
Fundamental principles of scientific glassblowing. Practice in the basic techniques and the development of skill in the art of glassblowing. Introduction to the use of the glass lathe and the design of complex equipment. Prerequisite:  One chemistry lab course. Special fees may apply.
 
 
Chemistry    234 1 (crs.)
Organic Chemistry Lab I
Laboratory experience to complement Organic Chemistry I. Techniques explored include methods for separation, purification, and identification of organic compounds, and syntheses. Co-requisites: Chemistry 235. Special course fees may apply.
 
 
Chemistry    235 3 (crs.)
Organic Chemistry I
Major topics include nomenclature, reactions and mechanisms of aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons and their halogen derivatives; aromaticity; qualitative molecular orbital approach to bonding and structure; and stereochemistry. Prerequisite: Chemistry 106 with a grade of C or better. Co-requisite Chemistry 234 (3+3) (Fall-Spring) Special fees may apply.
 
 
Chemistry    246 1 – 3 (crs.)
Introduction to Chemistry Research
Supervised research in chemistry.  Prerequisite: One term of chemistry numbered 105 or higher and consent of instructor. This is a repeatable course for up to six units (crs.).
 
 
Chemistry    250 3 (crs.)
Chemistry and Biochemistry for Nursing Professionals
This online course is designed specifically for AAS-degreed practicing nurses. This course is not a substitute for the CHEM 101/102 sequence required of students at the beginning of their academic careers, even if planning to enter the nursing profession. CHEM 250 begins with a review of relevant topics in chemistry, both general and organic, and then covers topics typical of a biochemistry course such as biological molecules, metabolism, nutrition, protein function, and molecular biology. There is no laboratory component with this course.
 
 
Chemistry    291 1 – 5 (crs.)
Selected Topics in Chemistry
Special topics in chemistry.
 
 
Chemistry    303 3 (crs.)
Biochemistry: Clinical Emphases
This course is specifically designed to meet the needs of the Medical Laboratory Science majors as well as Chemistry majors who choose to follow the Department’s Biochemistry Emphasis. Topics include: Amino acids, proteins, nucleic acids, bioenergetics, carbohydrates, lipids, hormones, vitamins, electrolytes, and xenobiotics. Clinical correlations will be presented which emphasize: biochemistry, pathophysiology, and quantification of body fluid constituents.  Prerequisite: Chemistry 335. (Fall/Spring)
 
 
Chemistry    304 1 (crs.)
Biochemistry Laboratory
This course is specifically designed to meet the needs of students needing practical experience in the biochemistry laboratory. This laboratory is required for Medical Laboratory Science majors and is recommended for those in other clinically-oriented programs (e.g., premed., prevet.) and for Chemistry majors choosing to follow the Department’s Biochemistry emphasis. Techniques include aspects of spectrophotometry, electrophoresis, chromatography, immunoassays, and fluorescence. A significant amount of writing is expected. Prerequisite: Completion of or concurrent enrollment in Chemistry 303. Special fees may apply.
 
 
Chemistry    310 3 (crs.)
Chemistry Workshop for K-12 Teachers
This course is intended to be a workshop in Chemistry for K-12. The focus will be on activities to improve the effectiveness of the classroom teacher. The course does not apply to any graduate degree program at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh. 310/510
 
 
Chemistry    311 4 (crs.)
Analytical Chemistry I
An introduction to the field of analytical chemistry with emphasis on ionic solution equilibria. Specifically, statistical analysis of data, theoretical principles of solubility, acid-base, redox and complex equilibria will be discussed stressing calculations involving system constants and species concentrations. Laboratory techniques include volumetric, potentiometric and spectrophotometric methods with stress on quantitative determinations of inorganic and organic species. Prerequisites: Chemistry 106 with a grade of C or better. Co-requisite of Chemistry 235. Special fees may apply.
 
 
Chemistry    312 3 (crs.)
Analytical Chemistry II
Theory and application of instrumentation to chemical analysis. Topics covered include spectroscopic methods, mass spectrometric techniques and chemical separations. The laboratory will stress instrumental identification of organic and inorganic species, methods comparison and quantitative determination of organic and inorganic species using the above. Credit may not be obtained in both Chemistry 312 and 320. Special fees may apply. Prerequisite: Chemistry 311 with a grade of C or better, Chemistry 370. Special course fees may apply.
 
 
Chemistry    315 3 (crs.)
Advanced Biochemistry
This course is specifically designed for students needing an advanced course in Biochemistry, including Chemistry majors who choose to follow the Department’s Biochemistry or biomolecular Sciences Emphasis. It will build on the topics of thermodynamics, biomolecules (proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, carbohydrates), enzymes mechanisms and biochemical pathways laid down in Chemistry 303, but with an emphasis on research design and discovery. Topics include: bioenergetics, signal transduction, DNA metabolism, RNA metabolism, polypeptide metabolism, and regulation. Prerequisite: Chemistry 303, with a grade of C or better. (Spring)
 
 
Chemistry    320 3 (crs.)
Introduction to Instrumental Analysis
This course introduces a number of modern instrumental techniques that are commonly employed in modern chemical laboratories including absorption spectroscopy, emission spectroscopy, and chromatography. It is designed to meet the needs of Medical Laboratory Science majors and Biomolecular Science students. Prerequisites: Chemistry 335 and major in Medical Technology, or Chemistry with  Biomolecular Science Emphasis. Credit may not be obtained in both Chemistry 320 and Chemistry 312. Special fees may apply. (Spring)
 
 
Chemistry    323 3 (crs.)
Analytical Separations
The principles and theoretical foundations, experimental variables, and applications of solvent extraction and the primary chromatographic techniques, including: column, liquid-liquid, ion exchange, think-layer, gas-liquid and other recent modern chromatographic methods.  The laboratory will involve applications of the above to demonstrate the utility of the methods. Special fees may apply. Prerequisite: Chemistry 311, 334 and 335. 323/523 (2+3)
 
 
Chemistry    334 1 (crs.)
Organic Chemistry Lab II
Laboratory experience to complement Organic Chemistry II. Laboratory includes advanced synthesis work and introductory, qualitative organic analysis emphasizing modern spectral techniques. Prerequisites: Chemistry 234 and 235 with a grade of C or better. Co-requisite: Chemistry 335.  334/534. Special course fees may apply.
 
 
Chemistry    335 3 (crs.)
Organic Chemistry II
A continuation of Chemistry 235 which includes a discussion of alcohols, phenols, ethers, carbonyl containing compounds, amines, anilines, carbohydrates and proteins. Particular emphasis is placed on the mechanistic and theoretical aspects of the various topics covered. Infrared, nuclear magnetic resonance, and mass spectroscopes are discussed in a qualitative manner. Prerequisite: Chemistry 234 and 235 with a grade of C or better; Co-requisite: Chemistry 334. Special fees may apply. 335/535 (3+3) (Fall-Spring)
 
 
Chemistry    336 1 (crs.)
Advanced Organic Laboratory
A continuation of the laboratory in Chemistry 335, which includes qualitative organic analysis, advanced synthesis and/or independent special projects. Prerequisite: Chemistry 335 with a grade of C or better. 336/536 (0+3)
 
 
Chemistry    360 1 – 3 (crs.)
Special Topics
A chemistry course on a topic not covered in the department’s curriculum. This course may be repeated with different content.  Each time it is offered, the topic will be announced in the class schedule. Graduate students will be required to do an extra project or paper.  Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. 360/560
 
 
Chemistry    365 3 (crs.)
Biophysical Chemistry
This course focuses on thermodynamics, kinetics, chemical equilibria and spectroscopy as they pertain to biological molecules, macromolecules and cells. Prerequisite: Chemistry 303, Math 171 and either Physics 172 or 192. (Fall)
 
 
Chemistry    370 4 (crs.)
Physical Chemistry I
Fundamental principles of physical chemistry. Lecture topics include ideal and real gases, kinetic theory, thermodynamics, equilibria, properties of solutions, surface and colloid chemistry. Laboratory includes experiments that are designed to illustrate the lecture material. Prerequisites: Mathematics 273 (may be taken concurrently), Chemistry 235, and Physics 192 (may be taken concurrently), and declared chemistry major or consent of instructor. Special fees may apply. 370/570  (3+3)
 
 
Chemistry    371 4 (crs.)
Physical Chemistry II
A continuation of Chemistry 370. Lecture topics include quantum chemistry, atomic and molecular spectra, and chemical kinetics.  Laboratory includes experiments that are designed to illustrate the lecture material.  Prerequisites: Mathematics 273, Chemistry 311, and Chemistry 370. 371/571 (3+3) Special fees may apply.
 
 
Chemistry    435 3 (crs.)
Interpretive Spectroscopy
The application of spectral methods to the characterization of the structure of inorganic and organic compounds will be presented.  Specific topics will include infrared, Raman, ultraviolet and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopes and mass spectrometry. The laboratory will involve the use of these techniques to identify the structure of unknown samples. Prerequisite: Chemistry 335/535 and Chemistry 334. 435/635 (2+3) Special fees may apply.
 
 
Chemistry    446 1 – 3 (crs.)
Independent Study
Supervised research in chemistry.  See Independent Study under Course and Academic Advisement Policies information for general course description, general prerequisites, and proper contract form requirements. Special course fees may apply. (0+3 to 9) (Fall-Spring)
 
 
Chemistry    452 3 (crs.)
Polymer Science
An introduction to the study of the chemistry of macromolecules including: polymerization reactions and kinetics, physical and chemical characterization methods, and the relationship between chemical and mechanical properties.  Prerequisite: Chemistry 370. 452/652 (2+3)
 
 
Chemistry    456 1 – 3 (crs.)
Related Readings
Supervised readings in Chemistry. See Related Readings under Course and Academic Advisement Policies Information for general course description, general prerequisites, and proper contract form requirements. (0+3 to 9) (Fall-Spring)
 
 
Chemistry    470 4 (crs.)
Advanced Inorganic Chemistry
An advanced course that focuses on important topics from inorganic chemistry. Topics include: coordination chemistry, bonding models, application of spectroscopy, and other topics of current interest.  Laboratory includes experiments that are designed to illustrate the lecture material.  Prerequisites:  Chemistry 335 and 371, or consent of the instructor. Special fees may apply.  470/670 (3+3).
 
 
Chemistry    474 1 – 6 (crs.)
Honors Thesis
The Honors Thesis is one of two options offered to Honors students to meet the senior capstone requirement of The Honors College. Students who choose the thesis engage in research as an independent study over two semesters (fall/spring or spring/fall) with the support of a faculty advisor. They decide on a topic in their major or minor, address recent scholarship, develop a prospectus, and produce a substantial work (e.g., a written thesis, scientific experiment or research project, or creative arts exhibit or production). At the end of the term in which the capstone is completed, students give presentations at the Honors Thesis Symposia. Credits are applied to the respective department or unit. Prerequisites: In good standing with The Honors College, prior enrollment in HNRS 175Q and HNRS 275Q, and senior status.
 
 
Chemistry    490 1 (crs.)
Chemistry Seminar I
The student will work with a faculty member adviser to prepare a major research paper involving the student’s own research or a critical analysis of recent scientific literature on an agreed-upon chemical topic.
 
 
Chemistry    491 1 (crs.)
Chemistry Seminar II
The student will work with a faculty member adviser to prepare and give an oral presentation involving the student’s own research or a critical analysis of recent scientific literature on an agreed-upon chemical topic. Prerequisite: Chemistry 490.
 
 
Chemistry    495 1 – 6 (crs.)
Chemistry Research Internship
An off-campus research experience in an industrial/ academic/governmental laboratory under the joint supervision of the department and participating agency. Prerequisite: Application and admission into the program six months prior to the commencement of the internship. Normally, course work through Chemistry 371 must be completed prior to the internship. (0+3 to 18) (Summer, if available)