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Chemists continue to make an enormous contribution to society, for example, the development of batteries for portable electronic devices; the discovery of drugs and medicines for treating disease; polymers for drug delivery, medical implants, and aerospace; flavors and preservatives used in food or water purification; and many others. A world of opportunities and a huge range of careers awaits students who major in chemistry. The BSc in Chemistry program gives students a broad education in chemistry and supporting subjects in the early stages to provide a holistic set of skills (e.g. computational, analytical, numerical, and synthetic), knowledge, and methodologies for observing the physical world. Chemistry students can pursue their interests in more specialized sub-disciplines of chemistry or prepare for medical school. Four tracks, designed to serve the UAE’s needs, are currently available:
Upon successful completion of the degree, Chemistry graduates can pursue further studies (MSc or PhD) or careers in business, industry, and academia, locally or internationally. Typical employment fields within the UAE and the Gulf region encompass quality control, analytical and technical roles, education, consultancy, as well as research and development. Such employment exists within industrial and government laboratories, university and industrial research centers, environmental protection agencies, chemical manufacturing plants, and forensic chemistry laboratories (e.g. criminology and clinical science). Many students study for higher degrees, in particular, undertaking research towards a doctorate. Some Chemistry graduates go on to medical school for training and future employment in the medical field.
Chemists develop and synthesize life-saving tests and drugs within the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and life sciences sectors and although these are nascent industries within the UAE, the BSc in Chemistry program paves the way for training a new generation of graduates who can play a leading role in developing these crucial sectors of the UAE economy.
You can find out more about the types of career available to chemistry graduates by reading information from the Chemistry professional bodies, the American Chemical Society or the Royal Society of Chemistry (UK).
Students graduating with a BSc in Chemistry will have achieved the following set of knowledge-based, performance/skills-based, and affective competencies:
CHEM 115
GENERAL CHEMISTRY (3-2-1-4)
Prerequisite: None
This course presents a comprehensive study of the facts, concepts, and laws of chemistry. It includes the study of the fundamental principles and laws of chemistry, including stoichiometric relationships, aqueous chemistry, the ideal gas laws and kinetic molecular theory, thermochemistry, quantum theory and electronic structure, periodic properties, and chemical bonding and molecular structure. The course is accompanied by a laboratory component that emphasizes quantitative procedures.
CHEM 116
GENERAL CHEMISTRY II (3-3-4)
Prerequisite: CHEM 115
This is the second course in the General Chemistry series. Topical emphasis is placed on intermolecular forces, colligative properties of mixtures, chemical kinetics, acid-base equilibria, buffer systems, introductory acid-base titrations, solubility and complex equilibria, entropy and free energy, and basic topics on both organic and inorganic chemistry. The importance of chemistry for both nuclear and environmental sciences is introduced.
CHEM 200
QUANTITATIVE METHODS IN PHYSICAL SCIENCES (3-2-4)
Prerequisites: CHEM 116; MATH 111
This course will provide students with the mathematical tools needed throughout their chemistry degree. By the end of the course, students will be able to manipulate algebraic expressions, perform statistical analysis of experimental data, perform basic computational modelling experiments using the Spartan’16 code and be familiar with the use of Excel for performing regression analysis. Foundational concepts in computational chemistry will also be introduced.
CHEM 206
CHEMICAL SAFETY AND RESEARCH SKILLS
Prerequisites: CHEM 116; Chemistry Major
The overall goal of this course is to provide a familiarity with chemistry as a ‘language’ including different structure representations and types of chemical information. Students will also develop the knowledge and skills they need to use electronic tools in chemistry. The principles behind safety from an operational and management point of view will be covered with an emphasis on risk assessment in the laboratory.
CHEM 211
FUNDAMENTALS OF ORGANIC CHEMISTRY (3-3-4)
Prerequisites: CHEM115
This course provides an introduction to naming, structure, bonding, reactivity, and properties of organic compounds such as alkanes, alkenes, alkyl halides, aromatic compounds, alcohols, amines, and carbonyl compounds in the views of atomic and molecular orbital theories. These basic principles are applied to a variety of topics ranging from chemical reactions to biomolecules.
CHEM 221
ORGANIC CHEMISTRY I (3-3-4)
Prerequisites: CHEM116
This course provides an introduction to naming, structure, bonding, reactivity, spectroscopy, and properties of organic compounds such as alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, alkyl halides, aromatic compounds, and alcohols in relation to atomic and molecular orbital theories. These basic principles are applied to a variety of topics ranging from chemical reactions to structure determination of organic compounds.
CHEM 231
PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY I (3-3-4)
Prerequisites: CHEM 116
The properties of gas phase reactions are derived starting from basic assumptions and equations of state using the kinetic theory of gases. The First and Second Laws of Thermodynamics are introduced. Phase diagrams are introduced in the context of gas-liquid equilibria. The fundamental postulates of quantum mechanics are used to explain the observed atomic spectra of elements and diatomic molecules. Finally, vibrational and rotational spectroscopies are introduced using quantum models.
CHEM 241
INTRODUCTION TO ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY (3-3-4)
Prerequisite: CHEM 116
This course introduces the principles and practices of analytical chemistry. It covers both qualitative and quantitative measurements of simple mixtures containing biologically relevant inorganic and organic substances. The theory and practice will cover topics on statistical data treatment and analysis, calibration methods, volumetric titrations, selected electroanalytical techniques, chromatographic separations, and sampling/sample preparation methods.
CHEM 251
INORGANIC CHEMISTRY (3-3-4)
This course introduces foundational concepts in inorganic chemistry including solid structures, advanced acidity and basicity, redox chemistry and its representations, and symmetry. It describes the properties and chemistry of the compounds of the main-group elements. It reviews techniques to characterize and quantify inorganic species.
CHEM 311
BIOCHEMISTRY (3-3-4)
Prerequisite: CHEM 211 (for non-CHEM majors); CHEM 221 (for CHEM majors)
This course provides a basic working knowledge of biochemical concepts and techniques. Emphasis is placed on major biochemical concepts and techniques alongside factors affecting the structure and function of important classes of biomolecules and biomacromolecules – from proteins and enzymes to lipids and carbohydrates. These theoretical concepts are reinforced by hands-on laboratory activities.
CHEM 322
ORGANIC CHEMISTRY II (3-3-4)
Prerequisite: CHEM 211
This course provides an introduction to the structure, conformation, stereochemistry, physical properties, spectroscopy and reactions of organic compounds, such as aromatic compounds, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids and derivatives, and amines. Some of the important reaction mechanisms and advanced multi-step organic synthesis involving these compounds are discussed. Spectroscopy techniques such as NMR, IR, and MS are also covered.
CHEM 330
INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTATIONAL CHEMISTRY (4-0-4)
Prerequisite: CHEM 231
This introductory course in computational chemistry introduces students to the principles of computational chemistry and computer-based molecular design. Students learn the basic theories and applications of modern computational chemistry methods. Emphasis is placed on the computational cost and accuracies of different levels of theory. Students apply the theories discussed to solve problems of interest such as those involving small molecules, macromolecules and supramolecules.
CHEM 332
PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY II (3-2-1-4)
Prerequisite: CHEM 231
This course builds on the foundations of gas kinetics and thermodynamics introduced in Physical Chemistry I. The mathematical framework for rate laws will be extended to complex reaction mechanisms involving chain reactions and applications will be emphasized in polymerization processes and gas phase reactions in the upper atmosphere. Statistical mechanics will be used as a bridge between the microscopic properties of matter and their bulk properties.
The spontaneity of chemical and physical processes will be explained by introducing the Second Law of Thermodynamics and the Gibbs and Helmholtz energies will be used to probe the maximum work that can be achieved by a chemical process. The chemistry of surfaces will be discussed regarding how atoms are deposited and grown on surfaces. Experimental methods for probing the composition and structure of surfaces will also be described. Finally, several case studies of how surface chemistry is applied to catalysis will be discussed.
CHEM 342
MODERN TECHIQUES FOR CHEMICAL ANALYSIS (3-3-4)
Prerequisites: CHEM221 or CHEM 211; and CHEM 241
This course covers a range of electrochemical, separation, and spectrochemical instrumental methods that are used for routine qualitative and quantitative analysis of liquid and solid mixtures. The lecture component covers the theory, instrumentation, method classification and selection criteria, basic principles for method development, data analysis, and data interpretation. The lab offers hands-on and problem-based learning approaches of analytical and bioanalytical methods through real case studies.
CHEM 343
ADVANCED INSTRUMENTAL ANALYSIS TECHNIQUES IN CHEMISTRY (3-3-4)
Prerequisites: CHEM342; CHEM351 or CHEM 351
This course discusses contemporary instrumental analysis techniques and related studies of the physicochemical properties of materials at the bulk or surface level, based on microscopy, porosimetry, atomic and molecular spectroscopy, and thermal approaches. The course covers the basic principles of each technique, including instrumentation, operation mechanism, detection limit, resolution, interference, variable parameters, and specimen preparation for a range of applications.
CHEM 351
MAIN GROUP COMPOUNDS: STRUCTURE, REACTIVITY AND CHARACTERIZATION (3-1-4)
Prerequisites: CHEM106; CHEM116
This course introduces and reviews foundational concepts in inorganic chemistry; for example, solid structures, advanced acidity and basicity, redox chemistry and its representations, and symmetry This course describes the properties, compounds and chemistry of the main-group elements, with an emphasis on rationalizing trends and behaviors based on these foundational concepts, and introduces techniques to characterize and quantify inorganic species.
CHEM 352
INORGANIC CHEMISTRY (3-3-4)
Prerequisite: CHEM 251
This course describes the properties, compounds and chemistry of the d- and f-block elements, including organometallics, thus providing students with an ability to rationalize trends and behaviors based on foundational concepts such as electronic structure and coordination chemistry. It introduces students to the applications, including materials and bioinorganic chemistry, with case studies such as inorganic chemistry in medicine, hydrogen-storage for energy applications and industrial catalysis.
CHEM 360
MICROBIOLOGY AND BIOCORROSION FOR ENGINEERS
Prerequisite: CHEM115, 60 credits, or Junior Standing
This course focuses on two primary areas of study; microbiology and biocorrosion. The microbiology unit is designed to impart an understanding of the biological and chemical interactions of microbes and their impact on the oil and gas industry. The biocorrosion unit gives the students an in depth understanding of how microbes, initiate, facilitate and/or accelerate corrosion of various metals both in aqueous and non-aqueous environments. This knowledge will enable students to apply new methods and technologies in their engineering fields.
CHEM 391
INDEPENDENT STUDY I (VARIABLE COURSE CREDITS FROM 1 TO 3)
Prerequisite: Junior Standing and approval of the department
This course gives an upper level undergraduate student the opportunity to participate in an individual or group project, study, or research activity under the supervision of a faculty member. A formal report is required.
CHEM 399
INTERNSHIP (0-0-1)
Prerequisite: Minimum of 70 credits earned by end of the preceding Fall semester, including at least 24 credits in core major courses
Students are required to spend a minimum of 8 continuous weeks* on an approved internship program. The internship provides students with practical, on-the-job experience which allows them to integrate theory with “real world” situations. It is academically supervised by a faculty member and professionally supervised by the company’s designated internship supervisor who provides feedback to the university about the student’s progress. The student must keep a detailed log book and prepare a formal report that documents the work undertaken during the internship period, and both of these must be submitted to the Department within the first two weeks of the semester following the internship. The report and the complete course activities are graded on Pass/Fail basis by the supervising faculty member, with input from the internship supervisor.
CHEM 423
INTRODUCTION TO MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY (3-0-1-4)
Prerequisites: CHEM 311 and CHEM 322
This course introduces students to the principles of modern medicinal chemistry from drug action to the design and development of drugs and medicines. Students discover what factors need to be considered in designing effective drug molecules and how their physico-chemical characteristics and therapeutic properties are related. The action and fate of pharmaceuticals in the body are described within various physiological systems, with the discussion of specific case studies of successful drugs.
CHEM 424
SYNTHESIS OF MEDICINAL COMPOUNDS (3-3-4)
Prerequisites: CHEM 432, CHEM 322
This course introduces and illustrates how contemporary synthetic organic chemistry is used in the identification and preparation of medicinally valuable compounds. The strategies and synthetic methods used to identify and prepare potential drug molecules are described along with some of the specialized technologies and techniques that are needed for structural confirmation. Real-world examples are used throughout to illustrate these methods, primarily through analysis of published papers.
CHEM 461
ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY (3-3-4)
Prerequisites: CHEM 241; CHEM 251
This course lays the foundation for environmental chemical sciences through theory and practice. It introduces the biotic, chemical, and physical characteristics of the natural components of the earth system and the interactions among the various spheres.
CHEM 462
POLLUTION SCIENCE AND CONTROL (4-0-4)
Prerequisite: CHEM 461
This course introduces the basic concepts of environmental pollution and focuses on the sources, movements, reactions and fates of contaminants found in air, water and soil. The course deals with different facets of pollution analysis and management, including the basic principles of risk assessment, local and international laws and regulations, monitoring approaches, and control technologies.
CHEM 463
METHODS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL TRACE ANALYSIS (3-3-4)
Prerequisites: CHEM 342; CHEM 461
This course covers the principles, techniques, and applications of trace environmental analysis through both theory and practice. It focuses on sampling, sample preparation, and analysis methods of inorganic and organic traces in solid, liquid, and gaseous matrices. The course deals with an array of modern separation, spectrochemical, and electrochemical methods, and includes microanalytical and lab-on-chip approaches.
CHEM 471
FUNDAMENTALS OF FORENSIC SCIENCE (4-0-4)
Prerequisite: CHEM 311
This course outlines concepts related to the application of scientific knowledge and methodologies to civil and criminal investigations within the justice system. It provides an introduction to forensic science within the context of applied chemistry and branching disciplines encompassing forensic toxicology, biology and statistics. The course follows the forensic process from crime scene to court.
CHEM 472
FORENSIC CHEMISTRY AND EVIDENCE ANALYSIS (3-3-4)
Prerequisite: CHEM 471
The course introduces students to the application of modern analytical chemistry tools and procedures to support forensic investigations of several types of physical evidence. Topics include ignitable liquids, explosives, controlled substances, polymer films, fibers, soils, glass, paints, fingerprints and gunshot residues.
CHEM 473
FUNDAMENTALS OF FORENSIC TOXICOLOGY (3-3-4)
Prerequisite: CHEM 471
This course outlines concepts related to the toxicological principles underlying the actions of various drugs and poisons encountered in forensic toxicology as well as basic pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics. The course provides an understanding of the theoretical aspects of drug and analytical chemistry applied to forensic toxicology.
CHEM 481
MATERIALS CHEMISTRY (4-0-4)
Prerequisite: CHEM 352
This course outlines concepts related to the basic concepts of material chemistry and solid-state chemistry. It covers topics related to the development, characteristics and uses of advanced materials. It provides an introduction to the chemistry of the preparation, processing, characterization of various types of materials such as ceramics, glasses metals, alloys, composites, semiconductors, thin films, crystalline and amorphous solids, membranes and porous materials, and surface science of materials and biomaterials.
CHEM 482
NANOCHEMISTRY (3-3-4)
Prerequisites: CHEM 481
This course provides students with an introductory perspective on different nanomaterials, their properties and applications in various emerging fields. Emphasis will be allocated to the design, synthesis, characterization and functionalization of nanomaterials for practical applications. A variety of topics covering applications of nanomaterials in drug delivery, molecular imaging, nanomedicine, biosensors, nanoenergy, catalysis and environmental fields will be surveyed.
CHEM 483
POLYMER CHEMISTRY (4-0-4)
Prerequisites: CHEM 481
This course provides an introduction to polymer chemistry with an emphasis on synthesis, structure, and characterization of polymeric materials, the reaction mechanisms of various polymerization techniques, and the mechanical and rheological properties of polymers. A brief survey of processing methods and modern applications of polymeric materials are covered.
CHEM 491
INDEPENDENT STUDY II (VARIABLE COURSE CREDITS FROM 1 TO 3)
Prerequisite: Senior Standing and approval of the department
This course gives an upper level undergraduate student the opportunity to participate in an individual or group project, study, or research activity under the supervision of a faculty member. A formal report is required.
CHEM 495
SPECIAL TOPICS IN CHEMISTRY (3-0-3)
Prerequisite: Topic specific
This course mainly deals with new trends in Chemistry and related sciences. The course is repeatable if title and content differ.
CHEM 497
SENIOR THESIS I (1-6-3)
CHEM 498
SENIOR THESIS II (1-6-3)
Prerequisite: Senior Standing or departmental approval
Over the course of two semesters, students work closely with a faculty member to address a significant and complex question at the boundary of knowledge in chemistry. Students may work individually or in small teams subject to departmental approval. The project will require students to apply a broad range of theoretical and practical research techniques to the question and to exercise advanced critical thinking and evaluation as the project progresses, leading to new insights.