CHEM 111 The Chemistry of Us [GEKN]

This course is designed for non-science majors who are interested in how science sheds light on our physical environment and our bodies. The latest understanding on the interplay of physical, chemical, biochemical and neurochemical influences in the human body is explored along with developing a critical mind for analyzing scientific reports in the media.

Credit 3 hrs May not be repeated for additional credit
Grade Mode Normal (A-F) Course Rotation Fall (in-person/hybrid, occationally online)

Prerequisites -
Restriction by Major -
Restriction by Class - Undergraduate standing

Rationale for Knowledge of the Disciplines - The Chemistry of Us is designed for students with no science background to gain an appreciation of the contributions of chemistry, neurochemistry, and the physical sciences to our understanding of the workings of the brain and the human body. This course first develops the basic concepts of atoms, molecules, and energy as they relate to the most important contemporary issues in the understanding the human brain and its interconnectedness to the body. It will then explore what is currently known about the structure of the brain, neurotransmitters, and the substances that alter our mood towards happiness, depression, motivation, long-term memory and other brain-related topics. The course will also cover the evolution of brain theories over time and will expose students to the basic scientific knowledge and tools needed to analyze and interpret the voluminous amount of research produced in this field. This course has a laboratory, CHEM 116, where basic science concepts are addressed in a practical way. The pairing of CHEM 111 with CHEM 116 provides an opportunity to illustrate the practical application of basic scientific concepts, theories, and techniques that are fundamental in the study of the brain- human body connections. As such, CHEM 111 lecture and CHEM 116 laboratory meet the Natural Science requirements in the Knowledge of the Disciplines portion of the General Education program.

Equivalent Course(s) -
Course History -
Change to prerequisite 4/2016, effective Fall 2016; Approved for GEKN 2/2016, effective Fall 2016; New Course 5/2015, effective Fall 2015

chemistry, Knowledge of the Disciplines - Natural Sciences (GEKN)

Winter 2025 Course Sections

Fall 2024 Course Sections