A strong, diverse laboratory program produces well-qualified graduates, capable of reaching their goals. Chemistry faculty at Eckerd College have a keen interest in developing students' laboratory skills, problem-solving abilities, and independence. To help achieve these ends, students are encouraged to work with faculty in on-going research projects. Program of Study Eckerd College's chemistry curriculum begins with a two-semester general chemistry sequence which introduces students to modern chemical theory and applications in a variety of areas. The laboratory experiments accompanying these courses reinforce concepts studied in the classroom, and develop techniques for more advanced scientific work.
Extensive use is made of both traditional chemical techniques as well as modern instrumentation.
In both general chemistry courses, numerical problem solving is stressed in the classroom and quantitative measurements are emphasized in the laboratory. Our chemistry majors usually enroll in calculus their first year too. The organic courses introduce students to structures and reactions of carbon compounds and help develop an understanding of reaction mechanisms. During their junior and senior years, chemistry majors take more advanced courses such as physical chemistry, analytical chemistry, instrumental analysis, biochemistry, and advanced inorganic and advanced organic chemistry. These courses build on concepts learned the first two years to provide students the background in chemistry needed to be competitive in graduate school, medical school, or in an industrial setting.