Chemistry
DAVID HITT, PH.D., DEPT CHAIR
CAROLINE PHARR, PH.D.
JOHN ROWLEY, PH.D.
KYLE S. STRODE, PH.D.
Mission and Goals
Chemistry is the discipline that connects all of the natural sciences. In chemistry courses at Carroll, students integrate an atomic/molecular view of matter with principles from math and physics to learn the properties and structure of matter, how matter interacts with itself, and how it is transformed in chemical reactions. Because chemistry is central to all of the natural sciences, courses at Carroll explore the interdisciplinary links that exist between chemistry, physics, earth science and biology. Carroll’s chemistry program also integrates all of the artificial divisions between the various branches of chemistry, connecting these disciplines in a unique and intentional way throughout the curriculum.
To meet the goals of chemistry students, the chemistry program is designed to provide them with knowledge and skills needed to enter graduate or professional school or to gain employment in a chemically-related field.
Student Learning Outcomes
Students completing the major program in chemistry are expected to have
- an understanding of the basic principles and concepts of chemistry;
- the critical thinking skills needed for solving chemical problems;
- an understanding of the relationships between sub disciplines within chemistry along with the central role of chemistry in the natural sciences;
- the abilities to evaluate and interpret data and to analyze and synthesize information from different sources;
- a working knowledge of fundamental laboratory techniques and the ability to use them to perform chemical experiments;
- a knowledge of how to work safely with chemicals;
- a commitment to professionalism and ethical decision-making in their post-academic careers; and
- the writing and speaking skills needed for effective scientific communication.