Chemistry

Professor Tom Rybolt, Head

MISSION

The Department of Chemistry is committed to a student-centered program of instruction, research, and service activities. It focuses on undergraduate education in the chemical sciences by providing excellent BS and BA Chemistry degree options, including a Concentration in Biochemistry. A high priority is placed upon the role of research with undergraduates, both in the generation of new knowledge for the science of chemistry and in enriching and supplementing the education of its students. Public service is directed to providing technical support and expertise for chemical industries and other colleges and universities in the Chattanooga area as well as improving pre-college chemistry instruction through activities designed to assist teachers and students. The Department provides a solid foundation in basic chemical concepts and theories as well as dynamic laboratory experiences for its majors and for students in related degree programs. A modern curriculum is offered through the use of state-of the-art scientific equipment, computer resources, and quality instruction. A continuing effort is made to ensure a safe environment for students, faculty, and staff engaged in laboratory work. An effective advisement program informs chemistry majors of career opportunities in industry and graduate school as well as professional schools in the fields of medicine, pharmacy, and dentistry. The Department maintains an active seminar program and uses a restricted fund, the Grote Chemistry Fund, to supplement state support in achieving its mission. The Department is accredited by the American Chemical Society. Strong values including cultural and intellectual diversity, collegiality, and high standards of professional and ethical conduct are emphasized by the Department of Chemistry.

Educational Outcomes/Objectives

Consistent with the requirements of our accrediting agency, the American Chemical Society, students completing the chemistry program at UTC will demonstrate that they have received a sound education in the fundamental areas of modern chemistry.
Students completing the chemistry program at UTC will demonstrate attainment of essential critical thinking skills.
Recognizing that faculty-directed research develops outstanding critical thinking skills, we will work to enhance student participation in the extensive research activities of the department.
Students completing the program in chemistry will have gained essential skills in: synthesizing and identifying compounds, analyzing data and interpreting results, keeping a laboratory notebook, operating modern instruments, searching the chemical literature, and handling hazardous chemicals safely.
Students completing the program in chemistry at UTC will be prepared to enter graduate school, programs in the health professions, or the work force.

The program in Chemistry at UTC is designed to prepare students for careers in chemistry, biochemistry, medicine, dentistry and pharmacy. The chemistry curriculum provides programs leading to either the B.A. Chemistry degree or the B.S. Chemistry degree. The B.A. program emphasizes the liberal arts with specialization in chemistry. Students wishing to develop a broad background in chemistry while earning a minor in a related field should select the B.A. Chemistry degree. The B.S. program provides more extensive coursework in chemistry, physics and mathematics, and is recommended for students pursuing professional careers in chemistry or biochemistry. Within the B.S. Chemistry degree a student must select one of two concentrations: (1) Chemistry Concentration, or (2) Biochemistry Concentration. The B.S. Chemistry program is approved by the Committee on Professional Training of the American Chemical Society. The department also offers a minor in chemistry.

Preprofessional programs in dentistry, medical technology, medicine, cytotechnology, dental hygiene, pharmacy, and veterinary medicine are described in the Pre-Professional Programs section of the catalog.