If you choose Rollins to study chemistry and/or biochemistry, you will have the opportunity of pursuing one of two major options in chemistry, one of which leads to certification by the American Chemical Society Committee on Professional Training; or a major in biochemistry/molecular biology, in a joint program with the Department of Biology. These curricula feature a balance of modern chemical theory with practice, and places strong emphasis on the development of laboratory competencies, quantitative and analytical reasoning skills, independent study, and one-on-one student-faculty collaborative research opportunities. Classes are typically small, with generally less than 22-24 students in beginning level courses and 3-10 students in upper level courses.
Possible Majors
Departmental Education Philosophy
A variety of teaching-learning models are used to actively engage you with course concepts, including:
- problem solving in small groups
- use of digital animations that "bring to life" chemical concepts at the molecular level
- designing experiments
- web and electronic database searches of chemical/biochemical literature
- oral presentations and extensive writing assignments
The educational experience offered to you at Rollins will facilitate the development of your quantitative reasoning, problem solving, technical, research, and communication skills in preparation for your further study/career in chemistry, biochemistry, medicine and the allied health sciences, law, public service and/or business.
Integrated Laboratory & Chemical Investigations
One of the unique features of the chemistry curriculum is the four upper-level integrated, inquiry-based laboratory projects that systematically explore problems or questions of current interest in chemistry, biochemistry and material sciences. These courses attempt to integrate principles of the traditional disciplinary areas of chemistry in individual and group laboratory projects that include synthesis, purification, structure analysis, and the systematic study and characterization of physical and biochemical properties. In addition, you will use the scientific literature and internet resources, data analysis, statistics and spreadsheets, graphical, drawing, and computational methods of molecular modeling, and make oral, written and poster presentations of your findings.
Senior Research Thesis
As a capstone to your training as a chemistry/biochemistry major, you will have the opportunity to conduct a one or two semester senior-level independent research project or internship, write and defend your thesis, and perhaps present your work at a regional or national scientific meeting.
