General Goal I: Our students will be prepared for professional careers in chemistry
As skilled entry level employees in industry
As enthusiastic educators in elementary and secondary schools
As competent graduate students in chemistry, biochemistry, and chemical engineering
Specific Goals
Success in Achieving Career Goal: 75% of our students will enter the career path of their choice in the chemistry area as defined by the three listed above.
A professional curriculum: Our students will experience a curriculum as close as possible to that recommended by the American Chemical Society Committee on Professional Training (ACS CPT).
Technology: Our students will be exposed to, and have competence in, the operation and analysis of state-of-the-art scientific equipment, software and the data produced.
Chemical Knowledge: Students will demonstrate a breadth and depth of knowledge in chemistry. This will be evidenced by the average performance on ACS National Exams in at least the 60th percentile, and 30% of the students will score above the 80th percentile, in each course that has an exam. The average score on the Physical Science (PS) and Biological Science (BS) areas of the MCAT will be at 60th percentile.
Laboratory Skills: Students will demonstrate a sophisticated level of laboratory skills, including experiment design and problem solving, by the time of graduation. At least 50% of our graduates will be involved in a summer research project; either at Westmont or another facility, and; at least two graduates per year will complete a major honors project.
Scientific Curiosity: Our students will develop a love of learning and an enthusiasm for chemistry as a science and discipline.
General Goal II:
Our students will be experienced at reconciling Christian and secular scientific world views
The students will be knowledgeable in the area of the interface between Christian Faith and science and the times when they may appear to be at odds, and when they agree. They will have a perspective that integrates their scientific and theological beliefs into a seamless whole.