Program

A Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Siena Heights University will provide preparation for either entrance into the chemical workforce or for post-graduate education.

Our emphasis on a broad-based approach to chemical principles, coupled with an introduction to chemical research, has produced graduates who have successfully made the transition from student to professional.

The program provides a solid grounding in all the areas of modern chemistry. Our graduates have either successfully entered the work force, or have gone on to attend graduate and professional schools.

Chemistry is often referred to as the Central Science because chemical behavior plays a vital role in every aspect of daily life. Students majoring in chemistry at Siena Heights University receive training in all areas of chemistry and in their senior year they perform an independent research project.

Our emphasis is on producing chemistry graduates that have a firm grasp of the basic principles of chemical science and who are ready for a wide variety of possible career paths.

Recent senior projects have included:

• A theoretical study of compound stabilities
• Design and testing of solvent resistant polymers
• Isolation and assay of an enzyme from beef liver
• The study of the relationship between molecular structure and reactivity
• Catalysis of the hydroxamate hydrolysis reaction
• Computational study of protein-ligand binding
• Synthesis of the plant metabolite camalexin

These activities emphasize not only the abilities necessary to carry out meaningful research, but also stress the importance of having good communications skills.

Siena Heights University recently received a $1.5 million grant from the National Science Foundation to support low-income STEM majors with scholarships and academic assistance.

All Chemistry majors undertake a research project in their senior year. This includes the design and execution of the project, followed by a written report and an oral presentation. This experience will introduce students to all aspects the research process.

• Diverse faculty. Dr. Steven Wathen specializes in Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry and Cheminformatics and has more than 25 years experience teaching chemistry. Dr. Julius Nagy teaches General Chemistry and Analytical Chemistry as well as a class in Culinary Chemistry; before coming to Siena Heights University, he worked in the corporate Research and Development for 20 years. Our newest faculty member, Dr. Krishanthi Weerasinghe teaches Physical Chemistry, Computational Chemistry and Physics.
• Local connections. The chemistry program at Siena Heights University has connections with local chemical firms such as Anderson Development and Wacker Silicones. Many of our chemistry majors have been able to get work experience in the polymer industry through internships at these companies.
• Early acceptance. Chemistry majors who meet eligibility requirements, can receive early acceptance into Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine’s medical, dental, podiatric or pharmacy schools.

Coursework is complemented by two other experiences that help to make our graduates more skilled and competent chemists:

• The first is an opportunity to participate in an internship at a local chemistry company. Here, students get a chance to see first-hand what it means to be a professional chemist. In addition, students become involved in on-going research projects, and are often given their own projects to complete.
• The second experience is the completion of a chemistry research project during the junior and senior years. With the guidance of the chemistry faculty, students will plan and carry out the project, and then provide a written report, followed by an oral presentation of the project and its results.

Chemistry is known as the “Central Science” because of its important role in so many fields. Some of the careers where knowledge of chemistry is used include:

• Agriculture
• Art preservation and restoration
• Catalysis
• Education
• Information systems
• Sales and marketing
• Consulting
• Customer products
• Environmental services
• Food and flavor development
• Forensic science
• Waste management
• Materials science
• Oil and petroleum
• Paper and pulp
• Pharmaceuticals
• Polymers
• Science writing
• Textiles

The Chemistry Club is dedicated to providing both Siena Heights and the local community with opportunities to explore the dynamic and innovative world of chemistry. The student organization takes part in outreach at local schools as well as coordinating campus events. New members are always welcome, regardless of their scientific background–all Chemistry Club requires is curiosity and the drive to share knowledge with others.