Chemistry & Physics Department

Distinguished Teaching Professor: Robert M. Hoyte
Professors: Lori Zaikowski, Chair, Fernando Espinoza
Associate Professors: Michael Colaneri, Ruomei Gao, Michael Kavic, Youngjoo Kim
Assistant Professors: Bright Emenike, John Estes, Matthew Lippert
Visiting Associate Professor: Camille Jones, Steve Samuel
Visiting Assistant Professor: Jim Dimitrakopoulos
Laboratory Manager: Judith Johnson
Laboratory Technician: Eric Doucet, Nikki Rodgers

Chemistry and Physics Department Mission Statement

The mission of the Chemistry and Physics Department is to provide a sound, broadly-based foundation in chemistry and physics to enable graduates to perform effectively in the chemical industries, graduate and professional school, and other work environments. Along with this foundation, the department’s learning outcomes focus on the development of students’ critical thinking and communication skills. In keeping with the College’s social justice mission, we strive to accomplish these goals through close interaction between students and faculty, and by creating a learning environment that is welcoming to all.

The Major in Chemistry

The Chemistry major is intended to serve three student constituencies: (1) first time to college and lower division transfer students; (2) transfer students who have earned either an Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, or Associate of Applied Science degree; (3) non-matriculated students wishing to complete courses in chemistry to further career or personal goals. Since this student clientele will vary greatly in ability, preparation, and goals, the program is designed to have substantial flexibility. This flexibility is accomplished by offering two degree options: the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree and the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree.

The B.A. degree program requires fewer courses in chemistry than the B.S. program, leaving greater freedom for selection of courses in other areas, e.g., the biological sciences and liberal arts. This frequently is the preferred route for students preparing for entry into the health professions, as well as for students seeking opportunities in public school education or direct employment in scientific industries.

The B.A. degree in Chemistry is the logical option for those who wish to prepare for postgraduate study in medicine, dentistry, other health professions, law, and related professions.

The B.S. degree program is the recommended program for students planning graduate study in chemistry. It also prepares graduates for baccalaureate careers in the chemical sciences, and scientific positions related to the environment, energy, and health professions. In contrast to the B.A., the B.S. degree requires more course work in chemistry and mathematics.

The Major in Biochemistry

The Biochemistry major is also intended to serve the three student constituencies identified above for the chemistry major, but will appeal to students whose interests overlap the fields of chemistry and biology. The B.S. degree program in Biochemistry is designed to prepare students for careers in biotechnology and scientific work in emerging fields at the interface of biology and chemistry. It is a highly interdisciplinary curriculum that also prepares students for graduate study in biochemistry and related fields such as molecular and cellular biology. In addition, the Biochemistry major provides excellent preparation for students intending to seek entry into medical, dental, and other health professional schools.

Other Services

In addition to its degree-granting role, the Chemistry/Physics Department provides vital support both to science majors in fields other than chemistry and to non-science majors. The Department offers courses which appeal to broad segments of the college community, and provides non-science majors with the scientific concepts needed to function effectively in today’s society.

American Chemical Society Certification

For those who wish to continue their education on the graduate level, an optional program based on recommendations of the American Chemical Society’s Committee on Professional Training has been designed as an integral extension of the B.S. degree programs.

This optional curriculum has received full certification from the American Chemical Society (ACS). Students who complete the ACS approved program will be awarded an ACS certified B.S. degree in chemistry or in Biochemistry.

Transfer Students

The Chemistry and Biochemistry majors are designed to articulate with a typical community college program. Transfer students who have followed a science curriculum at a two-year college, including one year each of introductory chemistry, organic chemistry, calculus and physics can expect to complete the chemistry major in two years. Transfer students must complete at least 18 credits of CP courses at or above the 3000 level at Old Westbury.

Physics Courses

The Chemistry/Physics Department also offers courses in physics and physical science. The motivating philosophy for these courses is to provide the student with a broad background in the fundamental laws and principles of physics and mathematical physical sciences for work in biological science, chemistry, physics, engineering, mathematics, teacher education, business, computer and information sciences, and health-related fields. It is not possible to earn a degree in Physics at this time.

Evening Students

At the present time, it is not possible to earn a degree in Chemistry or Biochemistry by attending classes only during the evening.

Competency Requirement for Graduation with a Degree in Chemistry or Biochemistry

Students must achieve a 2.0 average in chemistry (CP) courses at Old Westbury.

Policy on Repeated Courses

No CP course may be taken more than three times. Students who can not achieve a grade of C in a course after three attempts, are advised to change majors. Failed attempts include grades of F, W, D-, D, D+, and C-.

Programs

Bachelor of Arts

Chemistry, B.A.

Bachelor of Science

Minor