Undergraduate programs
Chemistry is the study of the reactions of atoms and molecules, the stuff from which people and their physical environment are made. With a relatively small knowledge of atoms and molecules, it is possible to have a considerable understanding of many chemical phenomena we see and use. A comprehensive knowledge of chemistry is essential for the person who wishes to help solve the problems of today—problems of illness and disease, problems of wise use of our resources—and for the person who wants to do basic research in chemistry or who wants to work in the chemical industry.
The Department of Chemistry is committed to maintaining a teaching program of excellence at the undergraduate level as well as having a graduate program emphasizing cutting-edge research in the chemistry of the environment, novel materials and biological systems. Courses tailored for the student desiring only an introduction to the field are offered on a regular basis. A wide variety of other courses in the program are designed to offer fundamental training for students majoring in chemistry or for students in other science areas, such as biology or health-related occupations.
The curriculum, faculty, library, and facilities of the department are approved by the American Chemical Society. Graduating chemistry majors are eligible for certification to become members of the ACS after two years of professional experience.
Chemistry Minor
Requirements
To earn a minor in chemistry a student must complete the courses outlined below; at least 10 credits of these must be taken in residence at PSU.
Courses
| Ch 221 | General Chemistry I | 4 |
| Ch 222 | General Chemistry II | 4 |
| Ch 223 | General Chemistry III | 4 |
| Ch 227 | General Chemistry Laboratory | 1 |
| Ch 228 | General Chemistry Laboratory | 1 |
| Ch 229 | General Chemistry Laboratory | 1 |
| Ch 320 | Quantitative Analysis | 4 |
| Ch 321 | Quantitative Analysis Laboratory | 2 |
One of the following groups:
Group 1:
| Ch 334 | Organic Chemistry I | 4 |
| Ch 335 | Organic Chemistry II | 4 |
| Ch 336 | Organic Chemistry III | 4 |
| Ch 337 | Organic Chemistry Laboratory I | 2 |
| Ch 338 | Organic Chemistry Laboratory II (nonmajors) | 2 |
Group 2:
| Ch 327 | Elements of Organic Chemistry Laboratories I | 2 |
| Ch 328 | Elements of Organic Chemistry Laboratories II | 2 |
| Ch 331 | Elements of Organic Chemistry I | 4 |
| Ch 332 | Elements of Organic Chemistry II | 4 |
And one of the following:
| Ch 440 | Physical Chemistry I | 4 |
| Ch 350 | Biochemistry | 4 |
| Ch 490 | Biochemistry: Structure and Function | 4 |
Courses taken under the undifferentiated grading option (pass/no pass) are not acceptable toward fulfilling department minor requirements (except for Ch 227-Ch 229).
Total Credit Hours: 37-42