Chemistry Major

Our chemistry program includes all the main divisions of chemistry: organic, inorganic, analytical, biochemical, and physical. We will prepare you for advanced studies or a career in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, or environmentalism.

As a chemistry student, you will examine the structure, composition, and properties of matter while answering questions on the sustainability of life and how various chemicals react when combined with one another. You will also place the role of science in context with the social, environmental, and historical perspective of the society that supports and relies on that science for continued growth and prosperity. We believe God’s deliberate design of creation is clearly presented in the study of chemical phenomena, especially on the molecular level of life processes.

Chemistry Facilities

Housed in the Meyer Hall of Science and Mathematics, the chemistry department contains an extensive inventory of modern, state-of-the-art instrumentation (GC-MS, GC-FID, FT-IR, HPLC, UV/Vis, etc.) with which our students are able to reinforce theoretical studies of chemical phenomena with first-hand observations in the laboratory. The small size of classes and labs allows students to gain hands-on experience with advanced equipment much sooner than is typically possible at larger institutions.

Research

A key feature of our chemistry program is the opportunity to engage in active research with a faculty mentor. The undertaking of a research project serves to bring together the ideas introduced in many courses while developing the practical skills needed to pursue a career in a research field. The research, which may be done over several semesters and summers, culminates in a formal report or seminar.

Careers

A graduate of the Bethany Chemistry program might pursue a career in the following areas:

Forensic chemist
Biochemical consultant
Chemical technician
Crime lab analyst
Environmental health specialist
Occupational safety inspector
Pharmaceutical sales
Research and development
Water quality analyst

Student Stories

Hear from these students of our Chemistry program:

Matthew Schaffer (’10)

Matthew is currently finishing his second year at Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Parker, Colorado. He will

Kelly Widhammer

Kelly is a Biology major, also seeking minors in Chemistry and Business Administration. Her hometown is Oak Harbor, Washington. Tell

Meet the Faculty

For more information, see the Chemistry Department.

	Title	Office / Phone	Courses
Glenda Bossow MH 205 507-344-7736	Administrative AssistantAdjunct Faculty	MH 205 507-344-7736
Matt Riehl MH 315 507-344-7343	Professor	MH 315 507-344-7343	Analytical Chemistry and Lab Inorganic Chemistry and Lab Physical Chemistry I and Lab Topic: Transition Metals in OrganicSynthesis Chemistry Seminar Research Arranged Introduction to Materials Scienceand Engineering College Physics I and Lab College Physics II and Lab General Physics I and Lab General Physics II and Lab
Eric Woller MH 316 507-344-7790	Professor	MH 316 507-344-7790	The Chemistry of Art and Lab General, Organic and Biochemistry and Lab General Chemistry I and Lab General Chemistry II and Lab Organic Chemistry I and Lab Organic Chemistry II and Lab General Biochemistry and Lab Advanced Organic Chemistry Orientation to College

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Major Requirements

Please see the Program Requirements Disclaimer when planning your coursework.

Mission Statement

The chemistry major at Bethany Lutheran College prepares students for careers in chemistry related fields or advanced studies in chemistry, medicine, and other areas. The major provides a thorough background in all major divisions of chemistry: organic, inorganic, analytical, biochemical, and physical chemistry, while encouraging students to continue studies in the humanities, arts, and social sciences.

Program Learning Outcomes

When a student graduates with a degree in chemistry from Bethany, they should be able to do the following:

Demonstrate an understanding of fundamental concepts of chemistry.
Demonstrate the use of lab techniques and equipment to perform experiments.
Demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills.
Collect and evaluate information in the chemical literature.

Core Requirements

Following the ACS Guidelines for Undergraduate Professional Education in Chemistry, the following courses are required for the chemistry major. Any chemistry or supporting course in which the student receives a grade of “C–” or lower must be repeated.

Required lower division courses:

Plus either set of:

Both PHYS151 College Physics I and Lab and PHYS152 College Physics II and Lab
Both PHYS213 General Physics I and Lab and PHYS214 General Physics II and Lab

Required upper division courses:

Major Electives

12 credits minimum; limit of 2 SCIE courses:

Chemistry Minor

The chemistry minor will consist of a required foundation of three courses of lower division chemistry and an additional three courses of advanced elective coursework. Any chemistry or supporting course in which the student receives a grade of “C–” or lower must be repeated.

All of:

Advanced electives – at least two of:

At least one of:

Next Steps

Interested in studying chemistry at Bethany? Scheduling a campus visit is a great way to see what we have to offer. You can meet professors or sit in on a chemistry class too!