Chemistry -

Chemistry is a central science that connects scientific disciplines such as biology, physics, environmental science, health sciences, and engineering. The Chemistry minor is designed for non-chemistry majors who wish to broaden their scientific foundation, complement their primary field of study, and enhance their academic and professional opportunities.

The Chemistry minor benefits students in other science-related programs by deepening their technical expertise and analytical skills. It also supports students preparing for graduate study or professional programs in medicine, nursing, physical therapy, physician assistant studies, optometry, or genetic counseling by providing recognized coursework in the chemical sciences. Through the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and laboratory skills, the minor in Chemistry prepares students for success in diverse scientific and professional pathways.

Learning Outcomes

• A sound understanding of the fundamental principles of chemistry, including atomic and molecular structures and states of matter; methods for measuring matter and energy; uncertainty in scientific measurement; chemical thermodynamics and chemical kinetics; conservation of matter and the changes in composition and energy that accompany chemical reactions; mechanisms of chemical reactions; electrochemistry and energy conversion.

• Skills in written and spoken communication, particularly in the field of chemistry and experimental science: facility with the language of chemistry, with chemical formulae and chemical nomenclature; facility with descriptions of chemical energy and chemical thermodynamics.

• Competence in problem solving, critical thinking and analytical reasoning.

In addition, based on the elective courses chosen students may gain:

• Skills in experimentation and use of modern spectroscopic, chromatographic, and electroanalytical techniques; evaluation of the safety risks associated with chemical experiments and use their evaluation to discern safe laboratory practices and behaviors.

• An understanding of the principles of chemistry including: structure/function relationship of macromolecules in a biological context; the differential aspects of transition metal chemistry, including coordination complexes and organometallic species and the chemical and physical laws that govern the functioning of spectroscopic and chromatographic measurements.

Advisement Information

If you’re interested in declaring and earning an academic minor in Chemistry, please consult the Academic Minors page for more information about minors and to download the appropriate forms. The coordinator for this academic minor is Professor Alberto Martinez.

Explore the Department of Chemistry on the City Tech website.