Chemistry Home
Transforming emergent learners into visionary leaders of the global chemistry enterprise.
Chemistry is the science dealing with the composition and structure of substances and the transformations of these substances into new substances. The chemist attempts to identify naturally occurring compounds and also prepares and analyzes new materials which may form the basis of products useful to mankind.
Xavier's chemistry majors, upon graduation, are equipped with knowledge of basic chemical principles and experience in careful observation, controlled experimentation and thoughtful analysis of scientific data. The department is very cognizant of the need to provide its students with the training necessary for advanced study in chemistry, for a career in chemical industry, or for one of the professional fields.
The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in chemistry degree enables students to enter into a master's or doctoral program or immediate industrial employment requiring an extensive background in chemistry. This program is approved by the American Chemical Society, enabling students to graduate as certified chemistry majors.
The graduate who has completed the B.S. in chemistry will possess the necessary background for medical or dental school if the one-year course in General Biology has also been taken.
Four Classes:
General Chemistry (CHEM160)
A pre-professional course approved by the American Chemical Society for chemistry majors and required of many other science majors. Atomic and molecular structure, states of matter, stoichiometry, and chemistry of representative main group elements.
Organic Chemistry (CHEM240)
A pre-professional course approved by the American Chemical Society for chemistry majors and required of many other science majors. Introductory course treating the structure, preparation, reactions, and properties of organic compounds.
Intro to Chemical Enterprise (CHEM180)
An introduction to the nature and use of the chemical literature, general research procedures, technical report writing, and computerized literature searches.
Research / Seminar (CHEM400)
Capstone course for the chemistry and chemical science major. Undergraduate research performed under the direction of a faculty member. Students share the results of their research and interact with outside speakers during weekly seminar sessions. A written thesis is the final product of these activities.
Learn more about what the Chemistry program can do for you.
