The online catalog includes the most recent changes to courses and degree requirements that have been approved by the Faculty Senate, including changes that are not yet effective.
Department of Chemistry
chemistry.wsu.edu
Fulmer 305
509-335-5585
Professor and Department Chair C. Berkman; Regents Professor, K. Hipps; Professors, J. Boncella, J. Brozik, B. Clowers, C. Kang, K. Kittilstved, A. Li, U. Mazur, K. Peterson, C. S. Yoo; Associate Professors, X. Guo Q. Zhang; Assistant Professors, J. Bell, L. Moreau, I. Popov, A. Sharma; Career Track Professors, P. Buckley, G. Crouch; Career Track Associate Professors, N. Devarie-Baez, R. Joseph, J. Lessmann, K. Nishida, A. Otoikhian; Career Track Assistant Professors, M. Finnegan, R. Kittilstved, M. Popova; Adjunct Faculty, S. Bryan, A. Clark, P. Cox, S. Conradson, S. Guharay, N. Henson, D. G. Schenter, N. Wall, Z. Wang, M. Xian; Professors Emeriti, S. Clark, M. Cooke, P. Garner, H. Hill, J. Hurst, J. Jones, D. Matteson, B. McFadden, J. McHale, K. McMichael, K. Nash, R. Ronald, S. Wherland, R. Yount.
Chemistry is the fundamental science of matter, the nature of substances, and the changes occurring in them. Chemical reactions are the basis of all life on earth. Everything we are or do depends in one way or another on chemistry. A major in chemistry prepares you for a variety of careers in industry, education, and public service, or for graduate study and research in chemistry and many related fields.
The department has excellent facilities and special equipment for study and research at both the undergraduate and graduate level. There are active research programs in both traditional and emerging areas of chemistry. For example, the department is an integral partner in The PNNL-WSU Nuclear Science and Technology Institute, with participating faculty from nearly all research areas noted below. Students in chemistry at WSU are encouraged to take advantage of its excellent facilities and faculty by beginning research projects as early as possible. Research expands experience beyond the classroom into the realm of new knowledge.
Typical areas for research include:
- Analytical chemistry research spans fundamental developments in instrumentation, synthetic methodologies, molecular recognition and other strategies used in separations science. These methodologies are frequently used by our faculty to understand the migration of species through biological and environmental systems.
- Inorganic chemistry has as its center the study of the vast majority of the known elements and especially the transition metals; it includes development of catalysts for organic and inorganic transformations and investigation of the properties of organometallic compounds, investigation of the bioinorganic of metal containing proteins and radiopharmaceuticals, as well as inorganic radiochemical research on separation methods for lanthanides and actinides.
- Materials chemistry brings the knowledge and understanding of chemistry to the study of the structure and properties of materials. It involves the study of chemical reactions and physical processes occurring at surfaces and in solids by both experimental and theoretical means. It includes important phenomena such as energy transfer in light absorbing and emitting materials, electrical and heat transport in solids, and extends to the synthesis of new and improved materials, including nanomaterials.
- Organic chemistry deals with the many compounds of carbon and how these compounds interact in biological systems. It includes the study of medicinal, bioorganic, mechanistic, and synthetic chemistry and how these areas may be used in areas such elucidation of metabolic pathways, drug development in the treatment of diseases, and environmentally benign synthesis of important chemicals.
- Physical chemistry applies the methods and theories of physics to the study of chemical, biological, and nanoscale materials. It involves theoretical studies of chemical bonding using advanced computational methods and the investigation of the structures of solids and surfaces by a variety of instrumental methods including photon spectroscopies, X-ray techniques, and surface characterization. It also expands our understanding of molecular scale mechanisms for kinetically and thermodynamically driven processes.
Degrees and Options
The Department of Chemistry is on the approved list of the American Chemical Society and offers courses of study leading to the degree of Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, with options in professional chemistry or materials chemistry. Both of these options lead to a degree for which students will be well prepared for entry into the workforce or to pursue a graduate degree. The department also offers a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry with a standard option and a teacher preparation option. In addition, graduate study programs leading to the Master of Science in Chemistry and Doctor of Philosophy (Chemistry) are also offered.
After the beginning of the first year, a student interested in majoring in chemistry should consult with chemistry advisors to arrange a schedule which will permit completion of required courses in proper sequence. Regardless of which degree or option is chosen, a grade of C or better is required in all chemistry courses to fulfill requirements for the chemistry degree.
A student beginning undergraduate work will begin with CHEM 105. Students without high school chemistry will begin their study with CHEM 103 prior to taking CHEM 105. Additionally, if a student has completed one year of Advanced Placement high school chemistry and has scored 5 on the Advanced Placement Exam, credit is granted for the CHEM 105 / 106 sequence. If a student has completed one year of advanced placement high school chemistry and has scored 3 or 4 on the Advanced Placement Exam, credit is granted for CHEM 105. Students who complete an International Baccalaureate program with a high level pass and a grade of 4 or more on the exam are given credit for CHEM 101.
The Department of Chemistry provides major parts of the course work leading to degrees in the School of Molecular Biosciences. Students whose interests span chemistry and biology or chemistry and physics should see the section on the appropriate program in this catalog.
Lab Fees
Charges for expendable laboratory supplies and computing are made in each laboratory course.
Student Learning Outcomes for the B.S.
Students graduating from the Chemistry Department will be able to demonstrate:
- A thorough knowledge of the basic principles of chemistry, including atomic and molecular structure, chemical dynamics and the chemical and physical properties of substances.
- A thorough knowledge of the subfields of chemistry, including analytical, inorganic, organic, biochemistry, and physical chemistry.
- The ability to read, critically evaluate and interpret numerical, chemical and general scientific information.
- The ability to communicate effectively about chemistry both verbally and in writing.
- The ability to design experiments and to use appropriate experimental apparatus effectively.
Student Learning Outcomes for the B.A.
- A thorough knowledge of the basic principles of chemistry, including atomic and molecular structure, chemical dynamics and the chemical and physical properties of substances.
- A thorough knowledge of the subfields of chemistry, including analytical, inorganic, organic, biochemistry, and physical chemistry.
- The ability to read, critically evaluate and interpret numerical, chemical and general scientific information.
- The ability to communicate effectively about chemistry both verbally and in writing.
Schedules of Studies
Honors students complete the Honors College requirements which replace the UCORE requirements.
Chemistry, Bachelor of Arts - Secondary Education Option (131 Credits)
A student may be admitted as a Chemistry major upon declaring their intent to the department.
To maintain good standing in the major, students must complete CHEM 105 and 106 (or 116) and MATH 171, each with a grade of C or better, by the time they earn 30 credits. Students must also have a grade of C or better in all Chemistry courses. Failure to do so may result in the student being released from the major.
| First Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| Arts [ARTS] | 3 |
| CHEM 105 [PSCI] | 4 |
| ENGLISH 101 [WRTG] | 3 |
| Humanities [HUM] | 3 |
| MATH 1061 | 0 or 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 107 [BSCI] | 4 |
| CHEM 106 | 4 |
| HISTORY 105 [ROOT] | 3 |
| MATH 1081 | 0 or 2 |
| Social Sciences [SSCI] | 3 |
| Second Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| CHEM 220 | 3 |
| CHEM 222 | 1 |
| Diversity [DIVR] | 3 |
| MATH 140 [QUAN]1 | 4 |
| PHYSICS 1012 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 1112 | 1 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 106 | 4 |
| CHEM 301 | 3 |
| ENGR 120 | 2 |
| PHYSICS 1022 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 1122 | 1 |
| TCH LRN 301 | 3 |
| Complete Writing Portfolio | |
| Third Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 430 | 3 |
| CHEM 3383 | 3 |
| CHEM 345 | 4 |
| CHEM 398 | 1 |
| STAT 212 | 4 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| CHEM 348 | 4 |
| CHEM 3704 | 3 |
| Communication [COMM] or Written Communication [WRTG]5 | 3 |
| Equity and Justice [EQJS] | 3 |
| Foreign Language, if needed6 | 0 or 4 |
| Apply to College of Education Teaching Certificate Program | |
| Third Term | Credits |
| Summer - TCH LRN 317 | 2 |
| Fourth Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| SOE 101 or 102 | 3 |
| TCH LRN 464 | 3 |
| TCH LRN 465 | 3 |
| TCH LRN 466 | 3 |
| Foreign Language, if needed6 | 0 or 4 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| CHEM 485 [CAPS][M] | 3 |
| ED PSYCH 468 | 3 |
| TCH LRN 467 [M] | 3 |
| TCH LRN 469 | 3 |
| TCH LRN 470 | 3 |
| Exit Interview | |
| Fifth Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| TCH LRN 415 | 16 |
Footnotes
| 1 | The minimum math requirement is MATH 140. Students who place into MATH 140 or higher are not required to take MATH 106 or 108 but must take an additional 5 credits of electives. MATH 171 may be substituted for MATH 140. Students who place into MATH 140 should take it during their first year, and may delay one of the UCORE courses [ARTS], [HUM], or [SSCI]. |
| 2 | PHYSICS 201/211 and 202/212 may be substituted for PHYSICS 101/111 and 102/112. |
| 3 | CHEM 331 or 332 may replace CHEM 338. |
| 4 | MBIOS 303 may replace CHEM 370. |
| 5 | One from ENGLISH 201, 301, 302, or 402 is required for admission to the Teacher Education Program. Students who take ENGLISH 302 will need to take an additional [WRTG] or [COMM] course. |
| 6 | Two years of high school foreign language or at least two semesters of college-level foreign language are required by the College of Arts and Sciences for graduation. |
Chemistry, Bachelor of Arts - Standard Option (120 Credits)
A student may be admitted as a Chemistry major upon declaring their intent to the department.
To maintain good standing in the major, students must complete CHEM 105 and 106 (or 116) and MATH 171, each with a grade of C or better, by the time they earn 30 credits. Students must also have a grade of C or better in all Chemistry courses. Failure to do so may result in the student being released from the major.
| First Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| Arts [ARTS] | 3 |
| CHEM 105 [PSCI] | 4 |
| ENGLISH 101 [WRTG] | 3 |
| Humanities [HUM] | 3 |
| MATH 1061 | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 106 [BSCI] or 107 [BSCI] | 4 |
| CHEM 106 | 4 |
| HISTORY 105 [ROOT] | 3 |
| MATH 1081 | 2 |
| Social Sciences [SSCI] | 3 |
| Second Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| CHEM 220 | 3 |
| CHEM 222 | 1 |
| Diversity [DIVR] | 3 |
| MATH 140 [QUAN]1 | 4 |
| PHYSICS 1012 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 1112 | 1 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 106 or 107 | 4 |
| CHEM 301 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 102 2 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 1122 | 1 |
| Electives3 | 3 |
| Complete Writing Portfolio | |
| Third Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| CHEM 338 or 3314 | 3 |
| CHEM 345 | 4 |
| CHEM 398 | 1 |
| STAT 212 | 4 |
| Electives3 | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| CHEM 348 | 4 |
| CHEM 370 or MBIOS 303 | 3 or 4 |
| ENGLISH 402 [WRTG] [M] | 3 |
| Equity and Justice [EQJS] | 3 |
| Electives3 | 2 |
| Fourth Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| Advanced Chemistry Electives5 | 2 |
| Foreign Language, if needed, or Electives3,6 | 12 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Advanced Chemistry Electives5 | 3 |
| CHEM 485 [CAPS] [M] | 3 |
| Foreign Language, if needed, or Electives3,6 | 9 |
| Exit Interview | |
Footnotes
| 1 | The minimum math requirement is MATH 140. Students who place into MATH 140 or higher are not required to take MATH 106 or 108 but must take an additional 5 credits of electives. MATH 171 may be substituted for MATH 140. Students who place into MATH 140 should take it during their first year, and may delay one of the UCORE courses [ARTS], [HUM], or [SSCI]. |
| 2 | PHYSICS 201/211 and 202/212 may be substituted for PHYSICS 101/111 and 102/112. |
| 3 | At least 11 credits in addition to those specified must be at the 300-400-level, for a total of at least 40 upper division credits. |
| 4 | CHEM 331 has prerequisites of PHYSICS 202 or 206, and MATH 273, each with a C or better. |
| 5 | Advanced Chemistry Electives (minimum 5 credits): Approved courses include CHEM 347, 425, 426, 490, 499 (maximum 2 credits), any 500-level CHEM course, or STAT 412. Other electives may be used with permission. |
| 6 | The Foreign Language requirement is that of the College of Arts and Sciences and may be fulfilled with two years of a foreign language in high school. Students are encouraged to pursue a minor while fulfilling the electives requirement. |
Chemistry, Bachelor of Science - Materials Option (120 Credits)
Admission to the Major Requirements
A student may be admitted as a chemistry major upon declaring their intent to the department.
To maintain good standing in the major, students must complete CHEM 105 and 106 (or 116) and MATH 171, each with a grade of C or better, by the time they earn 30 credits. Students must also have a grade of C or better in all CHEM and MSE courses. Failure to do so may result in the student being released from the major.
| First Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| Arts [ARTS] | 3 |
| CHEM 105 [PSCI]1 | 4 |
| ENGLISH 101 [WRTG] | 3 |
| MATH 171 [QUAN] | 4 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 102 [BSCI], 106 [BSCI], or 107 [BSCI] | 4 |
| CHEM 106 1 | 4 |
| HISTORY 105 [ROOT] | 3 |
| MATH 172 | 4 |
| Second Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| CHEM 345 | 4 |
| Humanities [HUM] | 3 |
| MATH 220 | 2 |
| MATH 273 | 2 |
| PHYSICS 201 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 211 | 1 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| CHEM 220 | 3 |
| CHEM 347 | 3 |
| CHEM 348 | 4 |
| PHYSICS 202 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 212 | 1 |
| Social Sciences [SSCI] | 3 |
| Complete Writing Portfolio | |
| Third Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| CHEM 222 | 1 |
| CHEM 330 | 1 |
| CHEM 332 | 3 |
| CHEM 370 or MBIOS 303 | 3 or 4 |
| CHEM 398 | 1 |
| Diversity [DIVR] | 3 |
| Foreign Language (if needed) | 0 or 4 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| CHEM 331 | 3 |
| CHEM 334 [M] | 2 |
| Computational Elective: CPT S 121 or course approved by advisor | 3 or 4 |
| Equity and Justice [EQJS] | 3 |
| MSE 201 | 3 |
| Foreign Language, if necessary, or Elective | 3 or 4 |
| Fourth Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| CHEM 333 | 1 |
| CHEM 401 | 3 |
| CHEM 480 | 3 |
| CHEM 499 | 2 |
| COM 400 [COMM], ENGLISH 301 [WRTG], or 402 [WRTG] [M] | 3 |
| MSE 302 | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| CHEM 410 | 3 |
| CHEM 485 [CAPS] [M] | 3 |
| MSE 321 | 3 |
| MSE 323 | 3 |
| Electives2 | 3 |
| Exit Interview | |
Footnotes
| 1 | Students who have taken CHEM 101 must take CHEM 105 and 106, or 102 and 106. Highly qualified students are encouraged to take CHEM 116 in place of CHEM 106. |
| 2 | CHEM 503 or any 300-400-level MSE course not used to satisfy major requirements. |
Chemistry, Bachelor of Science - Professional Option (120 Credits)
Admission to the Major Requirements
A student may be admitted as a Chemistry major upon declaring their intent to the department.
To maintain good standing in the major, students must complete CHEM 105 and 106 (or 116) and MATH 171, each with a grade of C or better, by the time they earn 30 credits. Students must also have a grade of C or better in all Chemistry courses. Failure to do so may result in the student being released from the major.
| First Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| Arts [ARTS] | 3 |
| CHEM 105 [PSCI]1 | 4 |
| HISTORY 105 [ROOT] | 3 |
| MATH 171 [QUAN] | 4 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 102 [BSCI], 106 [BSCI], or 107 [BSCI] | 4 |
| CHEM 1061 | 4 |
| ENGLISH 101 [WRTG] | 3 |
| MATH 172 | 4 |
| Second Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| CHEM 345 | 4 |
| Humanities [HUM] | 3 |
| MATH 220 | 2 |
| MATH 273 | 2 |
| PHYSICS 201 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 211 | 1 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| CHEM 220 | 3 |
| CHEM 347 | 3 |
| CHEM 348 | 4 |
| PHYSICS 202 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 212 | 1 |
| Social Sciences [SSCI] | 3 |
| Complete Writing Portfolio | |
| Third Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| CHEM 222 | 1 |
| CHEM 330 | 1 |
| CHEM 332 | 3 |
| CHEM 370 or MBIOS 303 | 3 or 4 |
| CHEM 398 | 1 |
| Diversity [DIVR] | 3 |
| Electives | 2 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| CHEM 331 | 3 |
| CHEM 334 [M] | 2 |
| CHEM 425 | 2 |
| Equity and Justice [EQJS] | 3 |
| Electives | 6 |
| Fourth Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| CHEM 333 | 1 |
| CHEM 401 | 3 |
| CHEM 426 [M] | 2 |
| CHEM 499 | 2 |
| Foreign Language or Electives | 6 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Advanced CHEM Electives2 | 3 |
| CHEM 410 | 3 |
| CHEM 485 [CAPS] [M] | 3 |
| ENGLISH 301 [WRTG], 402 [WRTG] [M], or COM 400 [COMM] | 3 |
| Foreign Language or Electives | 3 or 4 |
| Exit Interview | |
Footnotes
| 1 | Students who have taken CHEM 101 must take CHEM 105 and 106, or 102 and 106. Highly qualified students are encouraged to take CHEM 116 in place of CHEM 106. |
| 2 | Advanced CHEM Electives include: CHEM 490, MATH 315, or any 500-level CHEM course. |
Minors
Chemistry
The minor in chemistry requires at least 16 credits selected from the courses below. All courses used for the minor must be completed with a grade of C or better. At least 9 credits must be upper-division work earned in WSU courses or through WSU-approved education abroad or educational exchange courses. Courses must be selected from at least two of the following areas (note that some courses have prerequisites): Organic: CHEM 345, 347, 348, 370, 540. Analytical: CHEM 220, 222, 425, 426, 520. Physical/Inorganic: CHEM 301, 330, 331, 332, 333, 334, 338, 401, 480, 501, 531. CHEM 499/495 – may be used for up to 4 hours. MBIOS 303 may be substituted for CHEM 370. Other 500-level Chemistry courses and courses outside of Chemistry may be used with the department’s permission.
Courses
The online catalog includes the most recent changes to courses and degree requirements that have been approved by the Faculty Senate, including changes that are not yet effective. Courses showing two entries of the same number indicate that the course information is changing. The most recently approved version is shown first, followed by the older version, in gray, with its last-effective term preceding the course title. Courses shown in gray with only one entry of the course number are being discontinued. Course offerings by term can be accessed by clicking on the term links when viewing a specific campus catalog.
Chemistry (CHEM)
101 [PSCI] Introduction to Chemistry 4 (3-3) Course Prerequisite: MATH 103 or a minimum ALEKS math placement score of 45%, or credit for or concurrent enrollment in MATH 105, 106, 107, 108, 140, 171, 172, 182, 201, 202, ENGR 107, STAT 205, or 212. Atomic and molecular structure, elementary organic nomenclature and reactions, quantitative relationships, periodicity, states of matter, solutions, acids, bases, pH, equilibrium, applications to life sciences. Not recommended as preparation for CHEM 105. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer.
102 Chemistry Related to Life Sciences 4 (3-3) Course Prerequisite: CHEM 101 with a C or better, or CHEM 105 with C or better. Organic functional groups and their reactions; thermodynamics, kinetics, and redox reactions, polymers, macro-molecules; carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, enzymes, nucleic acids, hormones, applications to life sciences. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer.
103 Concepts in Chemistry 4 (3-2) Course Prerequisite: A minimum ALEKS math placement score of 45%, or concurrent enrollment in or credit for MATH 103, 105, 106, 108, 140, 171, 172, 182, 201, 202, ENGR 107, STAT 205 or 212. Chemistry preparatory course for students who have not had high school chemistry or do not meet the prerequisites for CHEM 105. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer.
104 Forensic Chemistry 4 (3-3) Course Prerequisite: MATH 103 or a minimum ALEKS math placement score of 45%, or concurrent enrollment in or credit for MATH 105, 106, 107, 108, 140, 171, 172, 182, 201, 202, ENGR 107, STAT 205 or 212. The principles of chemistry applied to forensic science and forensic analysis. Typically offered Fall and Spring.
105 [PSCI] Principles of Chemistry I 4 (3-3) Course Prerequisite: Credit for or concurrent enrollment in one of the following courses: MATH 106, 108, 140, 171, 172, 182, 202, or ENGR 107, or a minimum ALEKS math placement score of 80%. Atomic and molecular structure, states of matter, quantitative relationships, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, periodicity, bonding. Recommended preparation: One year rigorous high school chemistry or CHEM 103. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer.
106 Principles of Chemistry II 4 (3-3) Course Prerequisite: CHEM 105 with a grade of C or better; one of MATH 106, 107, or 108 with a grade of C or better, or MATH 108 or concurrent enrollment, or a minimum ALEKS math placement score of 80%. Intermolecular forces, solutions, kinetics, equilibrium, acids and bases, thermodynamics, electrochemistry, radiochemistry. Credit not granted for both CHEM 106 and 116. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer.
116 Chemical Principles Honors II 4 (3-3) Course Prerequisite: By department permission. Honors-level second semester general chemistry; topics generally identical to CHEM 106, with additional advanced topics at discretion of instructor. Credit not granted for both CHEM 106 and 116. Typically offered Spring.
161 Nuclear Reactor Operations I 3 Course Prerequisite: CHEM 101 or 105 or concurrent enrollment in either. Foundational topics in reactor operations at the WSU TRIGA 1 MW nuclear research reactor, including nuclear theory, nuclear physics, radiation safety, health physics, reactor physics reactor kinetics, neutron transport theory, reactor auxiliary systems, and federal regulations. Typically offered Fall.
162 Nuclear Reactor Operations II 3 Course Prerequisite: CHEM 161 with a C or better. Training at the WSU 1 MW TRIGA nuclear reactor, with continued knowledge development in nuclear reactor theory and operations as preparation for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission licensing exam. Typically offered Spring.
191 Independent Study in Modern Chemistry V 1-3 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 6 credits. Course Prerequisite: CHEM 101 or concurrent enrollment, or CHEM 105 or concurrent enrollment. Independent study in the theory and practice of modern chemistry; written report required. Typically offered Fall. S, F grading.
220 Quantitative Analysis 3 Course Prerequisite: CHEM 106 or 116. Theories of quantitative chemical analysis; statistical evaluation of data; chemical equilibrium; volumetric and gravimetric methods of analysis; introduction to electrochemistry. Typically offered Fall and Spring.
222 Quantitative Analysis Laboratory 1 (0-3) Course Prerequisite: CHEM 220 or concurrent enrollment. Application of classical methods in volumetric and gravimetric analysis; acid-base, redox and EDTA titrations; ion-exchange chromatography; introduction to spectrophotometry. Typically offered Fall and Spring.
262 Senior Nuclear Reactor Operations 3 Course Prerequisite: CHEM 162 with a C or better. Facility design, reactor operations, safety analysis, nuclear design, risk assessment, regulatory considerations, and change management controls at the WSU 1 MW TRIGA nuclear reactor. Typically offered Fall.
265 Measurement of Radioactive Materials 3 (2-3) Course Prerequisite: CHEM 161; concurrent enrollment in either CHEM 101 or CHEM 105. Handling, characterization, and analysis of radioactive materials including nuclear theory and physics, radiation safety and detectors, alpha and gamma spectrometry, separation and analysis of radionuclides, and nuclear forensics. Typically offered Spring.
301 Descriptive Inorganic Chemistry 3 Course Prerequisite: CHEM 106 with a C or better. A survey of the chemistry of the elements using basic principles of bonding, acid-base and oxidation-reduction chemistry, and thermodynamics. Typically offered Spring.
330 Problem Solving in Physical Chemistry 1 Course Prerequisite: CHEM 106 or 116 with a C or better; MATH 273 or 283 with a C or better. Quantitative methods of data analysis and chemical concept development; emphasis on multivariable, matrix, and computer methods. Typically offered Fall.
331 Physical Chemistry 3 Course Prerequisite: MATH 273 or 283 with a C or better; 4 credits of PHYSICS 202 with a C or better, or PHYSICS 202 and 212, each with a C or better, or PHYSICS 206 with a C or better. Concepts of physical chemistry; basic thermodynamics; free energy and entropy; phase equilibria; properties of solutions of electrolytes and non-electrolytes. Typically offered Spring.
332 Physical Chemistry 3 Course Prerequisite: MATH 273 or 283 with a C or better; MATH 220 with a C or better; 4 credits of PHYSICS 202 with a C or better, or PHYSICS 202 and 212, each with a C or better, or PHYSICS 206 with a C or better. Elementary quantum theory; molecular structure and spectra; bonding theory; reaction rates; photochemistry and radiation chemistry; energy states and statistical thermodynamics. Typically offered Fall.
333 Physical Chemistry Laboratory for Chemists 1 (0-3) Course Prerequisite: CHEM 331 with a C or better or concurrent enrollment. Experiments selected to meet the individual needs of students in biology, chemical engineering, chemistry, or materials science. Typically offered Fall.
334 [M] Physical Chemistry Laboratory 2 (0-6) Course Prerequisite: CHEM 332 with a C or better or concurrent enrollment; CHEM 333 with a C or better. Continuation of CHEM 333. Experiments in molecular structure, atomic molecular spectroscopy, chemical kinetics including computational methods. Typically offered Fall and Spring.
338 (Effective through Summer 2025) Biophysical Chemistry 3 Course Prerequisite: CHEM 345 with a C or better; MATH 140 or 171 with a C or better; 4 credits of PHYSICS 101 or 102 with a C or better, or PHYSICS 101 and 111, each with a C or better, or PHYSICS 102 and 112, each with a C or better. The modern tools and insights of physical chemistry are covered by interconnecting these fundamental concepts with key biological phenomena. Typically offered Even Years - Fall.
345 Organic Chemistry I 4 (3-3) Course Prerequisite: CHEM 102 with a C or better, or CHEM 106 with a C or better. Survey of organic chemistry providing an overview of the chemistry of the functional groups. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer.
347 Organic Qualitative Analysis Laboratory 3 (1-6) Course Prerequisite: CHEM 348 with a C or better or concurrent enrollment. Isolation, purification and identification of unknown compounds; for chemistry and biochemistry majors. Typically offered Spring.
348 Organic Chemistry II and Problem Solving 4 (3-2) Course Prerequisite: CHEM 345 with a C or better. Advanced concepts in organic chemistry including mechanisms and multistep-synthesis; problem analysis and critical thinking development in organic chemistry. Credit not granted for both CHEM 346 and 348. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer.
370 (Effective through Summer 2025) Chemical Biology 3 Course Prerequisite: CHEM 102 or 345 with a C or better. Exploration of the chemistry of biological systems with regards to structure and function relations, as well as metabolism and energy production. Typically offered Spring.
398 Undergraduate Seminar 1 Typically offered Fall. S, F grading.
401 Modern Inorganic Chemistry 3 Course Prerequisite: CHEM 345. Properties of substances; periodic trends; catalysis; structure and reactivity; acid-base; oxidation-reduction; and spectroscopy. Credit not granted for both CHEM 401 and 501. Offered at 400 and 500 level. Typically offered Fall.
410 Advanced Synthesis and Characterization 3 (1-6) Course Prerequisite: CHEM 346 with a C or better, or CHEM 348 with a C or better; CHEM 332 with a C or better. Synthesis and characterization of organic and inorganic compounds and solid-state materials; modern synthetic technology, characterization methods, and laboratory techniques. Typically offered Spring.
425 Quantitative Instrumental Analysis 2 Course Prerequisite: CHEM 220 with a C or better. Computer interfacing applicable to chemical instrumentation; principles and applications of modern chromatography, spectrophotometry and electrochemical techniques. Typically offered Spring.
426 [M] Quantitative Instrumental Analysis Laboratory 2 (0-6) Course Prerequisite: CHEM 425 with a C or better or concurrent enrollment. Laboratory experience in modern analytical methods. Typically offered Fall.
440 Biophysical Chemistry 3 Course Prerequisite: CHEM 345 with a C or better; MATH 140 or 171 with a C or better; 4 credits of PHYSICS 101 or 102 with a C or better, or PHYSICS 101 and 111, each with a C or better, or PHYSICS 102 and 112, each with a C or better. The modern tools and insights of physical chemistry are covered by interconnecting these fundamental concepts with key biological phenomena. Credit not granted for both CHEM 440 and 540. (Formerly CHEM 338.) Offered at 400 and 500 level. Typically offered Even Years - Fall.
470 Advanced Biochemistry 3 Course Prerequisite: CHEM 102 or 345 with a C or better. Exploration of the chemistry of biological systems with regards to structure and function relations, as well as metabolism and energy production. Credit not granted for both CHEM 470 and 570. (Formerly CHEM 370.) Offered at 400 and 500 level. Typically offered Spring.
480 Solid State Chemistry 3 Course Prerequisite: CHEM 332 with a C or better. Properties, bonding and synthesis of solid state material; crystalline and amorphous solids and coatings. Typically offered Odd Years - Spring.
485 [CAPS] [M] Senior Thesis in Chemistry 3 Course Prerequisite: Admitted to the major in Chemistry (BA or BS); senior standing. Required capstone course for chemistry majors culminating in the development of a written research thesis. Typically offered Spring.
490 Current Topics in Chemistry V 1-3 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 6 credits. Recent advances in the understanding and application of chemical systems. Typically offered Fall and Summer.
495 Directed Research 1 Course Prerequisite: By department permission. Poster presentation of final research project. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer.
499 Special Problems V 1-4 May be repeated for credit. Course Prerequisite: By department permission. Independent study conducted under the jurisdiction of an approving faculty member; may include independent research studies in technical or specialized problems; selection and analysis of specified readings; development of a creative project; or field experiences. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer. S, F grading.
501 Modern Inorganic Chemistry 3 Properties of substances; periodic trends; catalysis; structure and reactivity; acid-base; oxidation-reduction; and spectroscopy. Credit not granted for both CHEM 401 and 501. Offered at 400 and 500 level. Typically offered Fall.
503 Advanced Topics in Inorganic Chemistry V 1-3 May be repeated for credit. Recent significant developments. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
509 Chemical Group Theory 3 Mathematical definitions of groups and representations, applications to chemical structure and spectra, ligand field theory, chemical reactions and selection rules. Typically offered Fall and Spring.
510 (Effective through Summer 2025) Introduction to Proteomics 2 Techniques and applications for the analysis of the proteome. Recommended preparation: MBIOS 303 or equivalent. Typically offered Odd Years - Fall.
511 Advanced X-ray Characterization 3 Foundations in X-ray diffraction, scattering, and spectroscopy-based characterization methods as applied to a wide range of systems relevant to physics, chemistry, and engineering; hands-on experience with data collection and analysis. (Crosslisted course offered as PHYSICS 511, CHEM 511.) Typically offered Spring.
514 Mass Spectrometry 2 Current methods, techniques and interpretation of mass spectrometric analysis. Recommended preparation: CHEM 425 or equivalent. Typically offered Spring.
517 Chromatography 2 Survey of major forms of chromatography, operating principles of common chromatographic detectors, and current case studies. Recommended preparation: CHEM 425 or equivalent. Typically offered Odd Years - Spring.
518 Electrochemistry 2 Execution and interpretation of a variety of interfacial electroanalytical techniques. Recommended preparation: CHEM 425 or equivalent. Typically offered Fall and Spring.
520 Advanced Analytical Chemistry 3 Statistics in chemical analysis; sampling; control of contamination and losses in analysis; electrochemical methods; separation in analysis; spectroscopic techniques. Recommended preparation: CHEM 425 or equivalent. Typically offered Fall.
521 (Effective through Summer 2025) Radiochemistry and Radiotracers 2 Nuclear stability, and decay modes, interactions of radiation with matter, radioanalytical instrumentation, health physics, neutron activation, and tracer level chemistry. Recommended preparation: CHEM 425 or equivalent. Typically offered Even Years - Fall.
522 (Effective through Summer 2025) Radiochemistry Laboratory 1 (0-3) Theory and application of basic radiochemistry instrumentation. Required preparation must include CHEM 222, CHEM 331, and PHYSICS 202 or equivalent. Typically offered Odd Years - Spring.
527 (Effective through Summer 2025) Environmental Chemistry 2 Natural water chemistry, AGRI processes, kinetics, thermodynamics, modeling in lake, river, and sea water. Typically offered Even Years - Spring.
528 Data Analysis for Chemistry 3 Data analysis methods for large data sets encountered in chemistry, programing using a scripting language, graphical and statistical analyses, chemometric methods. Typically offered Odd Years - Fall.
529 Selected Topics in Analytical Chemistry V 1-3 May be repeated for credit. Selected current developments. Typically offered Fall and Spring.
531 Advanced Physical Chemistry I 3 Classical physical chemistry including basic thermodynamics and kinetics; an introductory discussion of surface chemistry and electrochemistry. Recommended preparation: CHEM 331 or equivalent. Typically offered Spring.
532 Advanced Physical Chemistry II 3 Introduction to quantum mechanics; postulates of quantum mechanics; exact solutions and approximation methods. Recommended preparation: CHEM 332 or equivalent. Typically offered Fall. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
534 Chemical Statistical Mechanics 3 Course Prerequisite: CHEM 531 with a C or better or concurrent enrollment; CHEM 532 with a C or better or concurrent enrollment. Statistical theory of thermodynamic variables and chemical equilibrium; calculation of equilibrium properties from spectral data; fluctuations about equilibrium; quantum statistics. Typically offered Fall and Spring.
535 Applied Spectroscopy 3 Application of optical (UV-visible, Fourier transform infrared, Raman, and fluorescence) and NMR spectroscopies to problem solving in chemical research. Recommended preparation: CHEM 331, 332, 345, and 425. Typically offered Fall.
536 (Effective through Summer 2025) Quantum Chemistry 3 Course Prerequisite: CHEM 532. Quantum mechanics applied to chemical problems: states of atoms and molecules, transitions and spectra, ladder operators and many electron methods.
537 Advanced Topics in Physical Chemistry V 1-3 May be repeated for credit. Selected subjects; irreversible thermodynamics; chemical bonding; NMR; ligand field theory; x-ray diffraction; neutron diffraction. Typically offered Fall and Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
538 Qualifier Prep for Physical Chemistry V 1-2 Course Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment or credit with a grade of B or better in each of CHEM 509; CHEM 531; CHEM 532; CHEM 534; CHEM 564. Review of critical concepts in thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, statistical thermodynamics, spectroscopy, and group theory for those preparing to take the Physical or Materials Chemistry PhD qualifying exam. Typically offered Spring. S, F grading.
540 Biophysical Chemistry 3 The modern tools and insights of physical chemistry are covered by interconnecting these fundamental concepts with key biological phenomena. Credit not granted for both CHEM 440 and 540. (Formerly CHEM 338.) Offered at 400 and 500 level.
540 (Effective through Spring 2025) Physical Organic Chemistry 3 Course Prerequisite: CHEM 542. The major classes of organic reaction mechanisms and their significance; kinetics and introductory theory. Typically offered Fall and Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
542 Advanced Organic Chemistry 3 Synthesis of organic compounds; recent developments from current literature. Typically offered Fall. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
543 Bioorganic Chemistry 3 Chemistry of biological systems, medicinal chemistry, protein chemistry, enzyme mechanisms and inhibitors. Recommended preparation includes two semesters of undergraduate organic chemistry and one semester of undergraduate biochemistry. Typically offered Spring.
544 Advanced Topics in Organic Chemistry V 1-3 May be repeated for credit. Current research in organic chemistry. Typically offered Fall and Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
545 Synthetic Organic Chemistry 3 Modern synthetic methods and strategies; detailed reaction mechanisms, reaction scope and issues in catalysis will be discussed. Typically offered Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
546 (Effective through Summer 2025) Spectroscopic Identification of Organic Compounds 3 Structural interpretation of mass spectrometry and IR, UV-VIS and NMR spectrometry of small molecule organic compounds. Typically offered Fall.
550 (Effective through Summer 2025) Special Topics in Nuclear Processes and Radioactive Waste Management V 1-3 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 6 credits. Fundamental chemistry of the nuclear industry, chemical processing and waste management. Typically offered Even Years - Spring.
555 Teaching Chemistry 1 Teaching chemistry; workshops for new graduate teaching assistants in chemistry focusing on tutorials and labs. Typically offered Fall.
564 Molecular Spectroscopy 3 Phenomena which yield information on structures, energy levels, and interactions of molecules in solid, liquid, and gaseous phases. Typically offered Spring.
570 Advanced Biochemistry 3 Exploration of the chemistry of biological systems with regards to structure and function relations, as well as metabolism and energy production. Credit not granted for both CHEM 470 and 570. (Formerly CHEM 370.) Offered at 400 and 500 level.
572 (Effective through Summer 2025) Enzyme Reaction Mechanisms 3 Course Prerequisite: CHEM 542. Methods used to explore enzyme mechanisms; how enzymes catalyze reactions; overview of enzyme co-factors and exploration of differing classes of enzyme catalyzed reactions.
581 (Effective through Summer 2025) Environmental Chemistry I 3 Chemistry of natural and pollutant species and their reactions in the atmospheric environment. Typically offered Fall.
590 Introduction to Research Topics 1 Presentation and description of research areas and projects of current interest to faculty. Typically offered Fall. S, F grading.
591 Seminar in Inorganic Chemistry 1 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 6 credits. Presentation and discussion of topics in inorganic chemistry taken from research in progress or current literature. Typically offered Fall and Spring.
592 Seminar in Analytical Chemistry 1 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 6 credits. Presentation and discussion of topics in analytical chemistry taken from research in progress or current literature. Typically offered Fall and Spring.
593 Seminar in Physical Chemistry 1 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 6 credits. Presentation and discussion of topics in physical chemistry taken from research in progress or current literature. Typically offered Fall and Spring.
594 Seminar in Organic Chemistry 1 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 6 credits. Presentation and discussion of topics in organic chemistry taken from research in progress or current literature. Typically offered Fall and Spring.
600 Special Projects or Independent Study V 1-18 May be repeated for credit. Independent study, special projects, and/or internships. Students must have graduate degree-seeking status and should check with their major advisor before enrolling in 600 credit, which cannot be used toward the core graded credits required for a graduate degree. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer. S, F grading.
700 Master's Research, Thesis, and/or Examination V 1-18 May be repeated for credit. Independent research and advanced study for students working on their master's research, thesis and/or final examination. Students must have graduate degree-seeking status and should check with their major advisor/committee chair before enrolling for 700 credit. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer. S, U grading.
702 Master's Special Problems, Directed Study, and/or Examination V 1-18 May be repeated for credit. Independent research in special problems, directed study, and/or examination credit for students in a non-thesis master's degree program. Students must have graduate degree-seeking status and should check with their major advisor/committee chair before enrolling for 702 credit. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer. S, U grading.
800 Doctoral Research, Dissertation, and/or Examination V 1-18 May be repeated for credit. Course Prerequisite: Admitted to the Chemistry PhD program. Independent research and advanced study for students working on their doctoral research, dissertation and/or final examination. Students must have graduate degree-seeking status and should check with their major advisor/committee chair before enrolling for 800 credit. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer. S, U grading.