What is Chemistry?
The branch of science that deals with the identification of the substances of which matter is composed; the investigation of their properties and the ways in which they interact, combine, and change; and the use of these processes to form new substances.
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The Department of Chemistry provides students with quality Christian education training in science, technology and engineering using basic chemical principles underpinned in biblical principles. The Department offers intensive training that prepares its graduates to serve humanity as chemists, chemical engineers, biochemists, and health care professionals.
The department has a high placement rate for its graduates into graduate schools, professional schools, and employment. Classes are taught by friendly professors who have an interest in spiritual development, mentorship, and career development for all students. Faculty are involved in publication-quality research using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques in chemistry and biochemistry.
Ask an old chemist what he would like most, and his answer would be, ‘’a young chemist.” This statement describes the atmosphere of enthusiasm about chemical and biochemical research that permeates the department. Indeed, chemistry at Oakwood University will empower a student in his/her critical thinking skills that integrate theories and methods of modern chemistry and biochemistry for their future careers. The quality of our training, internship and enrichments programs have contributed to our high ranking with Oakwood being listed as one of the 23 historically Black colleges that are most productive for Black scientific talent.
Why should you join OU’s Chemistry department?
- Very high placement rate for our graduates
- Highly trained and friendly faculty and staff who are passionate about student success
- Spiritual nurture and community of students with high goals and aspirations
- Opportunities to pursue research and mentorship by faculty using state-of-the-art equipment including InfraRed, Fluorescence, NMR, UV/Vis spectroscopy and nanotechnology
- Involvement in community service and outreach efforts
Our Mission
Our department shares in the mission of Oakwood University – to transform students through biblically-based education for service to God and humanity. This transformation involves excellence in teaching, research, and service. We endeavor to make discoveries and advancements in chemical and biochemical research and integrate such knowledge as well as other newly discovered knowledge into all our programs through practical applications.
Department News
Chemistry department faculty wins NSF Research grant
GET TO KNOW OUR FACULTY
MAJORS:
- Biochemistry (B.S.)
- Chemistry (B.S.)
- Chemistry/Chemical Engineering (B.S.)
MINORS:
- Chemistry
SUMMER INTERNSHIP:
CH 100 : Chemistry in Society
3 HOURS
CH 211 : Quantitative Analysis and Lab
4 HOURS
CH 331 : Nutritional Biochemistry
3 HOURS
CH 141-142 General Chemistry & Lab
This course is a two-semester course designed to teach fundamental laws and theories of chemistry with emphasis on imparting mathematical and chemical problem-solving skills for students majoring in chemical, biochemical and biological sciences. It unpacks the relationship between atomic and molecular structures in the study of matter. Concepts taught include measurements, states of matter, chemical formulas, equations, stoichiometry among others. This course will provide students with knowledge on foundational principles of chemistry.
CH 211 Quantitative Analysis & Lab
This course will impart students with skills to know and understand the composition of a sample using various chemical techniques. The course teaches fundamental principles of quantitative analysis using gravimetric, volumetric, and spectrophotometric measurements. Prerequisite: CH 142 General Chemistry II and Lab.
CH 311 Organic Chemistry & Lab
This course will help students to deeply understand the study of the structure, properties, composition, reactions, and preparation of carbon-containing compounds. It will give students skills to create and explore organic compounds and molecules with a variety of use including environmental, pharmaceutical, and consumer products. the composition of a sample using various chemical techniques. The course teaches mechanisms of organic reactions, organic synthesis, spectroscopy etc.
CH401 Biochemistry & Lab
This course is designed to help students study chemical and biochemical structure of biomolecules and how these structures relate to cellular function. Biochemistry seeks to explain the rationale and interventions in medicine, industrial processes, agriculture, research etc. Students are challenged to critically think and use their problem-solving skills to design experiments that address day-to-day problems. This course teaches topics in proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids, and all relevant structures as well as their metabolic processes at the molecular level. A study of various biochemical techniques is also integrated in this course to help students solve real life problems.
Oakwood University Wins 4th National Championship at Honda Campus All-Star Challenge
Huntsville, AL - Oakwood University has emerged as the new national champion at the 35th Honda Campus All-Star Challenge (HCASC) held over the weekend. The Alabama-based university defeated 31 other teams to take home the title and a $100,000 institutional grant....
Community Health Workers Wanted
Oakwood University is seeking individuals interested in participating in the training and certification program for Community Health Workers (CHWs). The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the disconnect between patients who are at home and healthcare facilities. This...
International Town Hall Meeting – March 17, 2024
On behalf of Dr. Leslie Pollard, the Administrators, and the Oakwood University Faculty and Staff, we would like to say thank you to everyone who joined us for our International Town Hall Meeting on Sunday, March 17th. We appreciate the chance to share our latest...