General Information
The page is a general description of the goals and degree offerings of the department of chemistry and physics.
Department Chairman:Robert W. Kitchin, Ph.D., Professor
Faculty:
John D. Patton,
Ph.D., Assistant Professor
Hillary Glauser, M.S., Faculty Associate
Mark D. Kellogg, Instructor
Perry A. Tompkins - Ph.D.Professor
The department of chemistry and physics seeks to present to its students the basic principles of both chemistry and physics, each as its own discipline; to enhance facility in analytical and critical thinking - especially thinking which involves logical and quantitative relationships; to provide exciting and stimulating laboratory experiences as an aid to the learning process; and to develop scientifically literate citizens through an understanding of the methods of science and the roles of the physical sciences, including chemistry and physics, in society. The department of chemistry and physics also administers the program in pre-engineering and is responsible for the curriculum in physical science.
A chemistry degree from SBU gives a student numerous opportunities. Many chemistry graduates go to graduate school; others go to medical, dental and other health-related professional schools. Still others gain employment in industry, government and education.
The department of chemistry and physics offers B.A. and B.S. degrees in chemistry, a B.S. in chemistry education, physics minors and teaching certification in chemistry.
The B.A. degree in chemistry is designed for students seeking a chemistry major in a liberal arts environment. It requires 35 credit hours of work in chemistry, including the core curriculum. Supporting coursework in biology, computer science, mathematics and physics is also required. Also, the student seeking the B.A. degree must complete the University's foreign language and general education requirements.
The B.S. degree in chemistry is designed for students preparing for the health professions, graduate study, employment as a chemist or for teacher certification. The B.S. degree requires 35 credit hours of work in chemistry, including the core curriculum and supporting coursework in biology, computer science, mathematics and physics.
The B.S. in chemistry education requires 30 credit hours of work in chemistry, combined with specified courses in the physical science area and the professional education sequence to enable the student to be certified in chemistry as well as in general science.
Although a major in physics is not offered at SBU, a minor in physics can be obtained upon the completion of 22 credit hours of physics.