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  CHEMISTRY AND BIOCHEMISTRY DEPARTMENT

Chemistry and Biochemistry Department

Division of Natural Sciences

Professor Kerry A. Bruns, PhD, Chair

Professor Frank S. Guziec, Jr., PhD

Professor Fred R. Hilgeman, PhD

Associate Professor Emily D. Niemeyer, PhD

Associate Professor Gulnar H. Rawji, PhD

Assistant Professor Maha Zewail Foote, PhD

Assistant Professor Willis Weigand, PhD

Visiting Assistant Professor Peter M. Blass, PhD

Assistant Professor Lynn Guziec, PhD (part-time)

The Chemistry and Biochemistry Department seeks to provide a variety of educational experiences for students who desire a better understanding of the chemical, physical and biological world around them. The Department offers courses ranging from Chemistry Appreciation for the non-science major, to advanced studies in Biochemistry, Physical Chemistry, Organic, Inorganic, or Analytical Chemistry. The courses are offered in a flexible program designed to provide a strong understanding and knowledge of chemistry for a wide variety of students. Research opportunities are also available for students interested in working directly with faculty in an intensive laboratory experience.

The Chemistry and Biochemistry Department offers majors and minors within the Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees. The Department is accredited by the American Chemical Society (ACS) and offers an option for students to take an ACS certified BS degree in Chemistry. For students who wish to enter graduate school in chemistry or a related field upon completion of their degree, the ACS Certified chemistry major offers a strong foundation in all fields within the chemical sciences.

In addition to their regular course work, chemistry majors are strongly encouraged to become involved in laboratory research during their junior and/or senior years. Members of the Department’s faculty are available to consult with chemistry students, particularly those interested in graduate study, about research programs available at Southwestern and other universities. All chemistry majors are required to complete a capstone experience based on a laboratory or literature research project. In addition, all chemistry majors must participate in a literature seminar course in their junior year to prepare them for their capstone experience.

The flexibility of the chemistry degree program allows students to prepare for a number of career options including graduate or professional school, or obtaining a position in government or industry. Students should consult with their academic advisors to determine the best course choices within their individual degree plan.

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry also offers a major in Biochemistry under the Bachelor of Science degree. Biochemists seek to understand life processes in chemical and physical terms, and the curriculum for the biochemistry major reflects this intellectual endeavor. The curriculum is designed to guide students in developing a strong foundation in the fundamentals of chemistry and biology. It is shaped by suggestions of the educational division of the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) for an undergraduate curriculum leading to a major in biochemistry. Course requirements outside of those offered by the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department and the Biology Department emphasize the importance of physics and mathematics to this discipline, and help form a foundation needed by all liberally educated scientists.

Biochemistry majors are highly encouraged to participate in research, either at Southwestern University or at another institution, to fulfill their capstone requirements. All biochemistry majors must complete a chemistry literature research or laboratory research capstone. The education biochemistry majors receive will equip them with the skills and understanding needed for graduate study in chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related area. Graduates may also choose to pursue a career in industry or one of the health-related professions.

The courses required for the biochemistry major are offered regularly by departments within the Natural Sciences Division. The courses in Chemistry and Biology required for a major in Biochemistry are listed below.

NOTE: Students must complete their first year chemistry sequence (Chemistry 51-153/151 and either 51-163/161 or 51-173/171) with a grade of C- in each course before enrolling in any advanced level chemistry course.

Major in Chemistry (BA or BS): 30 semester hours, including Chemistry 51-153/151; 163/161 or 173/171; 351; 901 or 911 (Capstone); one course, taken at Southwestern, from four of the five following areas: Analytical 51-213/211, 614, 643/641; Biochemical 51-573/571, 583/581, 682, 683; Inorganic 51-624, 654, 661, 662; Organic 51-553/551, 563/561, 593, 633, 621, 622; Physical 51-713/711, 723/721, 731, 732; enough additional hours in Chemistry above the introductory level to total a minimum of 30 hours in the major.

Major in Chemistry (American Chemical Society (ACS) certified) (BA or BS): 44-46 semester hours, including Chemistry 51-153/151; 163/161 or 173/171; 553/551, 563/561 (sophomore year); 713/711, 723/721 (junior year); 573/571, 624, 643/641, 351, 911 (Capstone); two additional courses above the introductory level approved by the Department Chair.

Minor in Chemistry: 20 semester hours, including Chemistry 51-153/151; 163/161 or 173/171; one course, taken at Southwestern, from three of the five following areas: Analytical 51-213/211, 614, 643/641; Biochemical 51-573/571, 583/581, 682, 683; Inorganic 51-624, 654, 661, 662; Organic 51-553/551, 563/561, 593, 633, 621, 622; Physical 51-713/711, 723/721, 731, 732.

Major in Biochemistry (BS): 41 or 42 semester hours, including Chemistry 51-153/151; 163/161 or 173/171; 553/551, 563/561, 713/711, 573/571, 583/581; 682 or 683; 901 or 911 (Capstone); Biology 50-102, 112, 122, 162, 232.

Required supporting courses in the Biochemistry major: 15 semester hours, including Mathematics 52-154, 253; Physics 53-154, 164.

See the Education Department for information regarding teacher certification in Chemistry.

Chemistry (CHE)

†51-053CHEMISTRY APPRECIATION (2-2). A presentation of historic and modern theories and concepts of the nature of matter and bonding. Current problems dealing with synthetic and natural products and their pollutants will be discussed in light of their impact on society. Individual experiments and group demonstrations will be conducted in the laboratory. (POK-Natural World: Physical Science)
†51-063CHEMISTRY OF THE ENVIRONMENT (2-2). This course provides an overview of basic chemical principles and their importance in understanding the complexities of our natural environment. In particular, the course will discuss fundamental chemical concepts such as equilibrium, solubility, and acid-base chemistry and their application to environmental processes. Major topics that will be covered include atmospheric and aquatic chemistry, energy production and usage, and principles of toxicology. Also Environmental Studies 49-063. (POK-Natural World: Physical Science)
†51-151CHEMICAL CONCEPTS AND PROPERTIES I LAB (0-4). The laboratory consists of quantitative analysis. To be taken concurrently with Chemistry 51-153.
†51-153CHEMICAL CONCEPTS AND PROPERTIES I (3-0). General chemistry. Correlation of physical laws with the structure of matter and chemical properties. (POK-Natural World: Physical Science). To be taken concurrently with Chemistry 51-151.
51-161 CHEMICAL CONCEPTS AND PROPERTIES II LAB (0-4). Prerequisites: Chemistry 51-153/151. To be taken concurrently with Chemistry 51-163.
51-163CHEMICAL CONCEPTS AND PROPERTIES II (3-0). Continuation of Chemistry 51-153. Prerequisites: Chemistry 51-153/151. To be taken concurrently with Chemistry 51-161.
51-171 ACCELERATED GENERAL CHEMISTRY LABORATORY (0-4). Experiments designed to reinforce concepts presented in Chemistry 51-173, and instruction in use of instruments for chemical analysis. To be taken concurrently with Chemistry 51-173.
51-173 ACCELERATED CHEMICAL CONCEPTS & PROPERTIES (3-0). For highly prepared students, this course reviews and reinforces essential concepts from Chemical Concepts and Properties II. It is structured for students intending to major in chemistry or another department of the Natural Sciences, and offers an introduction to topics in Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, and the use of modern instrumentation in chemical analysis. Enrollment is limited to students who have taken Advanced Placement Chemistry in high school (with a 4 or 5 on the AP exam) or students who receive credit for CHE51-153/151 by passing an American Chemical Society standardized exam administered by the Chemistry Department. To be taken concurrently with Chemistry 51-171.
51-211 QUANTITATIVE METHODS OF ANALYSIS LABORATORY (0-4). Classical quantitative analysis and an introduction to instrumental methods of analysis. Prerequisite: Chemistry 51-163/161 or 173/171. To be taken concurrently with Chemistry 51-213.
51-213 QUANTITATIVE METHODS OF ANALYSIS (3-0). This course focuses on the basic principles of analytical chemistry and how these principles apply to chemical problems. Topics of discussion include the use of statistical analysis in chemistry, calibration methods, chemical equilibria, and a basic introduction to instrumental analysis. Prerequisite: Chemistry 51-163/161 or 173/171. To be taken concurrently with Chemistry 51-211.
51-351CHEMISTRY LITERATURE SEMINAR (1-0). This course will give students the opportunity to conduct in-depth research in the primary chemical literature. Students will be required to give scientific presentations and write papers in journal style. It is required for all chemistry majors and should be completed in the junior year of study as preparation for the capstone experience.
51-551 ORGANIC CHEMISTRY I LAB (0-4). A study of laboratory techniques employed in the preparation, separation, and identification of organic compounds. Students are introduced to techniques used to perform experiments on the macroscale as well as the microscale level. Prerequisites: Chemistry 51-163/161 or 173/171. To be taken concurrently with Chemistry 51-553.
51-553 ORGANIC CHEMISTRY I (3-0). A study of the preparation and reactions of aliphatic and aromatic compounds with an introduction to heterocyclic and organometallic compounds. Reaction mechanisms and instruments used in the determination of molecular structure are integrated into the lecture and laboratory. Prerequisites: Chemistry 51-163/161 or 173/171. To be taken concurrently with Chemistry 51-551.
51-561 ORGANIC CHEMISTRY II LAB (0-4). Continuation of Chemistry 51-551. Students are also introduced to accessing the chemistry literature through the library and on-line databases. Prerequisites: A grade of C- or better in Chemistry 51-553/551. To be taken concurrently with Chemistry 51-563.
51-563 ORGANIC CHEMISTRY II (3-0). Continuation of Chemistry 51-553. Prerequisites: A grade of C- or better in Chemistry 51-553/551. To be taken concurrently with Chemistry 51-561.
51-571 GENERAL BIOCHEMISTRY I LAB (0-4). Separations and measurements of biological molecules. Prerequisites: Chemistry 51-563/561. To be taken concurrently with Chemistry 51-573. Also Biology 50-571.
51-573 GENERAL BIOCHEMISTRY I (3-0). A survey of structures and functional interrelations of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and nucleic acids in life processes. Prerequisites: Chemistry 51-563/561. To be taken concurrently with Chemistry 51-571. Also Biology 50-573.
51-581 GENERAL BIOCHEMISTRY II LAB (0-4). This is a project-based laboratory developed to introduce students to the primary biochemical literature and modern methods of research in biochemistry. Prerequisites: Chemistry 51-573/571. To be taken concurrently with Chemistry 51-583. Also Biology 50-581.
51-583 GENERAL BIOCHEMISTRY II (3-0). Bioenergetics and metabolism. Prerequisites: Chemistry 51-573/571. To be taken concurrently with Chemistry 51-581. Also Biology 50-583.
51-593 MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY (3-0). This course provides an introduction to medicinal chemistry, in particular, the relationship between molecular structure and therapeutic activity, and the biochemical basis for this activity. Topics to be discussed include a historical perspective on drug development, receptors, and current approaches to rational drug design. Prerequisites: Chemistry 51-563/561.
51-614ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY (3-4). This course discusses how microscopic properties of atoms and molecules can affect changes within the environment. Coursework places emphasis on current environmental problems and concerns. Laboratory component introduces students to techniques used in environmental water, air and soil analysis. Prerequisites: Chemistry 51-553/551. Also Environmental Studies 49-614.
51-621, 622ADVANCED TOPICS IN ORGANIC CHEMISTRY (1-0 OR 2-0). Discussions on selected topics in advanced organic chemistry concentrating on modern methods for the synthesis of biologically important molecules. This course is primarily designed for chemistry majors who are interested in obtaining postgraduate degrees in chemistry or biochemistry. Prerequisites: Chemistry 51-563/561.
51-624 INTERMEDIATE INORGANIC CHEMISTRY (3-4). An introduction to the structure and reactivity of inorganic compounds. Descriptive chemistry of the elements including crystal structure, molecular structure, bonding, thermodynamic and redox properties, acid-base theories using periodic trends and theoretical models. Basic coordination chemistry and its biological applications will also be covered. Prerequisites: Chemistry 51-563/561.
51-633SPECTROSCOPIC METHODS OF STRUCTURE DETERMINATION (1-8). Introduction to determination of molecular structures using spectroscopic methods including infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry. Special attention will be given to hands-on use of these techniques in experimental structure determinations. An advanced project involving state of the art methods in nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy will be an integral part of the course. Prerequisites: A grade of C- or better in Chemistry 51-563/561.
51-641 INSTRUMENTAL METHODS OF ANALYSIS LABORATORY (0-4). Students will be introduced to the operation of spectroscopic, chromatographic, and electrochemical instrumentation. In addition to illustrating basic principles, experiments are designed to give students an understanding of “real world” applications of chemical instrumentation. Prerequisites: Chemistry 51-563/561. To be taken concurrently with Chemistry 51-643.
51-643 INSTRUMENTAL METHODS OF ANALYSIS (3-0). The basic goal of this course is for the student to develop a fundamental understanding of the principles of operation for a wide variety of chemical instrumentation. In addition, this course is designed for the student to learn the use of such chemical instrumentation in solving many common analytical problems. Prerequisites: Chemistry 51-563/561. To be taken concurrently with Chemistry 51-641.
51-654 ADVANCED INORGANIC CHEMISTRY (3-4). A further study of the structure of inorganic compounds including applications of symmetry to bonding and spectroscopy, and of synthesis and reactions of coordination, organometallic and bioinorganic complexes. The laboratory component of this course will utilize a variety of procedures for synthesis, purification, and characterization of inorganic compounds to demonstrate the diversity of techniques used in the field. Some experiments will involve the use of original papers to better acquaint the student with the available literature. Prerequisite: Chemistry 51-624.
51-661, 662SPECIAL TOPICS IN INORGANIC CHEMISTRY (1-0 OR 2-0). Selected topics from bioinorganic or organometallic chemistry. Prerequisite: Chemistry 51-654. May be repeated with changed content.
51- 682, 683ADVANCED TOPICS IN BIOCHEMISTRY (2-0 OR 3-0). Selected topics from the areas of physical biochemistry, enzymology and protein chemistry, nucleic acids chemistry, cellular regulation, and recombinant DNA technology will be presented and discussed. Prerequisites: Prior completion of or concurrent enrollment in Chemistry 51-583.
51-711 PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY I LAB (0-4). Prerequisites: Chemistry 51-163/161 or 173/171, Physics 53-154, and Mathematics 52-253. Mathematics 52-753 or 353 is recommended. To be taken concurrently with Chemistry 51-713.
51-713 PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY I (3-0). A quantitative study of the states of matter, the laws of thermodynamics, chemical equilibrium, the theory of solutions, and electrochemistry. Prerequisites: Chemistry 51-163/161 or 173/171, Physics 53-154, and Mathematics 52-253. Mathematics 52-753 or 353 is recommended. To be taken concurrently with Chemistry 51-711.
51-721 PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY II LAB (0-4). Prerequisites: Chemistry 51-713/711. To be taken concurrently with Chemistry 51-723.
51-723 PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY II (3-0). Kinetics, quantum mechanics, atomic and molecular structure, symmetry, and statistical thermodynamics. Prerequisites: Chemistry 51-713/711. To be taken concurrently with Chemistry 51-721.
51-731,732ADVANCED PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY (1-0 OR 2-0). Selected topics from atomic and molecular structure, thermodynamics, and kinetics. Prerequisites: Chemistry 51-723 and Mathematics 52-753.
51-901CHEMISTRY LITERATURE RESEARCH CAPSTONE (2-0). This course is intended for students who have not completed a departmentally-approved independent laboratory research project, either at Southwestern or another university. A portion of this course will cover current literature topics designated by the instructor. Students will be required to write a review article, and complete an oral examination.
51-911 CHEMISTRY LABORATORY RESEARCH CAPSTONE (2-0). This course is intended for students who have completed a departmentally-approved independent research project. A portion of the course will cover current literature topics designated by the instructor. Students will also be required to write a scientific article describing their research and complete an oral examination.

51-001, 002, 003, 004 SELECTED TOPICS. May be repeated with change in topic.
51-301, 302, 303, 304 SELECTED TOPICS. May be repeated with change in topic.
51-951, 952, 953, 954INDEPENDENT STUDY. May be repeated with changed
content. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
51-971, 972, 973 INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCH. May be repeated with
changed content.
51-983 HONORS. By invitation only.
51-990, 991, 992 ADVANCED RESEARCH for Postgraduate Research Scholars.