Preparation for teaching
Students preparing to teach at the secondary level should plan to qualify for state of California teaching credentials by completing the bachelor’s degree and passing the PRAXIS (or SSAT) subject area assessment. During the freshman year prospective teachers of both secondary and elementary levels should see the School of Education section of this Bulletin and consult the credential analyst and the Department of Curriculum and Instruction in the School of Education for detailed information concerning requirements.

Degrees Offered
The Department of Chemistry offers Bachelor of Science degrees in biochemistry, chemistry, and physical science. Minors in chemistry and biochemistry are available.

Program's Student Learning Objectives:
1. Demonstrate proficiency in the major content areas of chemistry at the bachelors degree level as specified by the American Chemical Society. The major content areas are (1) general chemistry (2) organic chemistry (3) inorganic chemistry (4) physical chemistry (thermodynamics and dynamics) and (5) analytical chemistry.
2. Be able to solve complex theoretical and quantitative problems accurately and efficiently.
3. Communicate scientific information effectively through writing and oral presentations as well as effectively utilize scientific information presented by other scientists through writing and oral presentations.
4. Perform an independent chemical research project under the supervision of a faculty member.
5. Anticipate, recognize, and respond to chemical hazards included in the storage, handling, and disposal of chemicals and laboratory accidents.
6. Be able to efficiently obtain & utilize data from and understand the principles of GC-MS, HPLC, FT-IR, UV-vis and NMR instruments.
7. Be able to perform basic lab skills including synthesis of inorganic and organic compounds, accurate and precise measurement, data collection, experiment design and keep legible, accurate, and complete experimental records.
8. Demonstrate ethical behavior in presenting & reporting results, utilizing chemical information, and pursuing research as well as being aware of current ethical issues in society which involve chemistry.

Department Information: