Program of Study
California State University San Marcos offers a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with options in Chemistry and Chemistry Education. Chemistry is the central science - the study of matter, its properties, and the transformations it undergoes. This includes everything in the universe from a simple hydrogen atom to very large replicating molecules in life processes. Chemistry plays a vital role in modern society: developing life-saving medicines that control and cure diseases; creating sustainable agriculture and consumer products; advancing renewable methods of energy production, transfer, and storage; and protecting our environment. Chemistry majors are needed to help solve some of society’s most difficult technological problems through research, development, and teaching.
As an integral part of this program, each student completes a senior research project, thesis, and thesis defense, gaining valuable hands-on experience in scientific investigation. Students may also explore advanced elective courses in analytical, inorganic, organic, physical, or biochemistry. With appropriate choices of chemistry and general education electives, graduates can meet the requirements for admission to graduate, medical, dental, optometry, pharmacy, veterinary, and other professional schools.
The goal of the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department is to provide a high-quality education aligned with the American Chemical Society (ACS) standards. Each student will learn the basics of analytical, inorganic, organic, physical, and biochemistry, including the most recent technology in instrumentation. Students benefit from small class sizes, close faculty/student interaction, and access to modern laboratories and instrumentation, creating an ideal environment for learning, discovery, and professional growth at Cal State San Marcos.
Program Student Learning Outcomes
Students who graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry will be able to:
- Demonstrate their theoretical knowledge in the sub-disciplines of organic, inorganic, analytical, physical, and biochemistry.
- Employ scientific inquiry and modern instrumentation in the design, performance, documentation, and quantitative interpretation of laboratory experiments at a level suitable for a career in industry or entry into a graduate program.
- Retrieve and evaluate chemical information from the chemistry literature, and communicate this information in written, oral, and electronic formats using appropriate scientific language to both experts and the general public.
- Identify and assess molecular hazards, the impact of chemicals on human health and the environment, and describe the fundamental principles of green chemistry.
- Apply their knowledge and experiences in carrying out an independent undergraduate research project.
Preparation
Up to five (5) units of chemistry credit can be applied toward a B.S. degree in Chemistry at Cal State San Marcos for students who have successfully completed the Advanced Placement (AP) Test in Chemistry with a score of 4 or 5. It is recommended that students with a score of 4 or 5 on the AP Test in chemistry consider auditing CHEM 150 during the Fall semester in preparation for CHEM 162 . Students with a score of 3 on the AP Test in chemistry must consult with the CHEM 150 instructor to determine the appropriate beginning course or take CHEM 150 .
Special Conditions for the Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
With the exception of CHEM 100 , all courses counted toward the major, including Preparation for the Major courses, must be completed with a grade of C (2.0) or better. Transfer students must complete a minimum of 24 units counted toward the chemistry major at CSUSM.
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