Introduction

The Chemistry Department is a strong science department of Trinity University, with a faculty committed to excellence in the teaching-research enterprise. The expertise of the faculty spans all the major sub-disciplines of chemistry (analytical, biochemical, inorganic, organic and physical). The hallmarks of the Trinity chemistry program are its innovative and progressive curriculum, exposure of students to modern sophisticated instrumentation, and emphasis on undergraduate research. Students and faculty work closely together on exciting projects at the frontier of chemical research.

Curriculum

Four degree programs are offered to students for majors in Chemistry and Biochemistry. The Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry is a rigorous four-year course of study designed for those students who plan to be professional chemist; this program meets the standards set by the American Chemical Society in training chemist for graduate programs in chemistry and to enter the chemistry professions. The Bachelor of Arts Degree in Chemistry is designed for students interested in secondary teaching, premedical training, and interdisciplinary studies. The Bachelor of Science Degree in Biochemistry prepares students for graduate study and research and for the health professions in the rapidly growing areas of biotechnology and the chemistry of life processes; this program meets the standards set by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. The Bachelor of Science Degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology also prepares students for graduate study or for medical school; it is a more interdisciplinary degree than the B.S. in Biochemistry.

The core curriculum consists of one year of introductory and inorganic chemistry, one year of organic chemistry, one year of physical-analytical chemistry, one year of physics, and two semesters of calculus. The B.A. degree requires one additional advanced chemistry course. The B.S. degree in Chemistry requires nine additional credit hours beyond the B.A. degree, and these hours must include courses in research. The Biochemistry Degree requires a year of biochemistry and three semesters of biology in addition to the B.A. requirements. The B.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology replaces some of the advanced study in chemistry with molecular biology courses. Research courses are available for all students beginning in the first year.

The Facilities

Chemistry at Trinity is conducted in approximately 15,000 sq. ft. of teaching and research laboratory space located in the Moody Engineering Science Building. The laboratories recently have undergone extensive renovation, and students are able to work in attractive, spacious and safe environments. For example, in the Organic Chemistry facility, every student has his/her own hood workspace in addition to regular bench space. Each laboratory has an adjoining room for instrumental measurements which are an integral part of the laboratory experience. The Chemistry Department has an outstanding array of modern, sophisticated instrumentation.

Students are introduced to instrument technology in a carefully planned sequence beginning in the first year. By the end of the junior year, all students are familiar with all levels of instrumentation necessary to conduct highly sophisticated research projects.

Student Opportunities

At Trinity, students of Chemistry are actively involved in the life of the Department. The award-winning student chemistry club, spd, has over 20 members, most of whom also belong to the student affiliate chapter of the American Chemical Society. This student group is involved in a number of activities such as guest lectures and film series, chemical plant field trips, tutoring services, social events and many others. Students may choose to work as a Stockroom Assistant in their first year or a Laboratory Assistant beginning in the sophomore year, and receive invaluable experience in the operation of a laboratory. More than 30 students are employed at Trinity during the summer months for an intensive period of research.

Awards are given each year for outstanding achievements in the first through senior years. In the spring of each year, the Department hosts the McGavock Award Program. Students, faculty and alumni present results of their research, and an award is given to an outstanding senior student. At the end of the spring semester, an awards banquet is held to honor the year's outstanding chemistry students.

After Graduation

Graduates of the Chemistry Department may expect to pursue advanced degrees and careers at some of the best known graduate schools, medical schools and industrial institutions in the country. Recent graduates have accepted positions at Harvard, University of California-Berkeley, University of Minnesota, Duke University, Johns Hopkins University, Cal Tech, University of Illinois, University of Chicago, University of Texas-Austin, Baylor Medical, UT-Southwestern, and the Dow Chemical Company.

The Courses

Please note that the Department of Chemistry only offers the Independent Research course over the summer. No other courses are taught during the summer session.