BSU Catalog Home | Chemistry Course Descriptions

Chemistry

Department of Chemistry
College of Social and Natural Sciences
Sattgast Hall 218-755-2920
Faculty

Dr. Julie Larson (Chair), Dr. Gerald Morine, Dr. K. Ravichandran, Dr. Kenneth Traxler

Areas of Study

Chemistry is often called the "Central Science," because chemical knowledge is essential not only to chemists, but also to biologists (through biochemistry, molecular biology, and environmental chemistry) and engineers (through materials science and polymers). A good knowledge of chemistry provides many options for graduate study and many options for career paths.

The study of chemistry can be divided into two parts: analysis and synthesis. Analysis determines the identities of the components of a real-world sample (a sample of polluted water, for example) and then measures how much of each component is present. Synthesis produces new, previously non-existent materials. Seventeen million chemicals are known, and new ones are produced all the time. Will you synthesize one that reduces pollution? Cures a dreaded disease?

First-and second-year students interested in a chemistry major or minor are encouraged to discuss their career interests with members of the Department of Chemistry. This will allow good schedule planning, leading to on-time graduation.

Preparation

See Section II, Enrollment, for required high school preparation.

Recommended High School Courses
Biology
Chemistry
Mathematics
Physics

Second Majors and Minors

Students are encouraged to discuss with their advisor the option of a second major or minor that might strengthen or complement their major.

Career Directions

Biologist
Chemist
Dentist
Engineer
Entrepreneur
Environmental Specialist
Geochemist
Nutritionist
Pharmacologist
Physician
Physical Therapist
Technical Management
Technical Sales
Toxicologist
Veterinarian
Graduate Study

Credit Requirement

Transfer Students: At least one-third of the credits to be included in the major must be successfully completed at Bemidji State University.

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