COURSE CURRICULUM

The Comprehensive Chemistry option at Southeast Missouri State University is a structured and intensive degree designed to prepare students for advanced study and professional careers in chemistry and related scientific fields. It builds a strong foundation through a set of required core courses that cover general chemistry, analytical chemistry, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, and biochemistry, along with chemistry seminars that support communication, research awareness, and professional development.Students begin with foundational laboratory and lecture courses in general chemistry, then progress into more advanced areas such as analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and biochemistry. Additional seminar courses across multiple levels help students develop scientific communication skills and prepare for research-oriented careers. A polymer chemistry course and upper-level chemistry electives further expand exposure to specialized topics in the discipline.After completing the core requirements, students select one of three specialized tracks based on their interests and career goals.The American Chemical Society (ACS) Certified Track is the most rigorous option and is designed for students planning careers in research or graduate study. It includes advanced coursework in physical chemistry, organic chemistry laboratory work, inorganic chemistry, biochemistry, and chemical instrumentation. It also requires undergraduate research, which helps students gain real laboratory experience and develop problem-solving skills in scientific investigation.The Computational Chemistry Track focuses on the intersection of chemistry and computer science. It includes programming courses such as introductory programming, computer science fundamentals, and data analysis, along with computational chemistry and advanced electives. This track prepares students for careers involving modeling, simulation, and data-driven chemical research.The Foundational Chemistry Track offers a more flexible structure while still maintaining depth in chemistry. It requires upper-level chemistry electives and allows students to choose supporting courses in physical chemistry, instrumentation, mathematics, computer programming, and physics depending on their academic and career interests.Across all tracks, students complete additional requirements in calculus, physics, and mathematics to strengthen their quantitative and analytical skills. Overall, the program prepares graduates for careers in chemistry, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, materials science, and environmental science, as well as for graduate or professional school.