St. Joseph's College's Department of Physical Sciences hosts a fully computerized, state-of-the-art general/analytical laboratory that allows students to conduct experiments and analyze data using spreadsheet/graphics software.
Small class sizes (average of 10) provide students with one-on-one attention and the opportunity to gain hands-on experience using modern analytical equipment commonly found in industrial and medical laboratories. All students become proficient laboratory technicians through course work and apply these skills to carry out an original research project leading to a senior thesis and presentation. Students are also encouraged to gain laboratory and teaching experience through a variety of work-study options. St. Joseph's chemistry program provides students with valuable practical experience in the laboratory that is in demand in the workplace.
techniques taught at St. Joseph’s
Experimental design
Data analysis
Chromatography (gas, column and TLC)
Gel filtration
UV-visible spectroscopy
IR spectroscopy
NMR spectroscopy
Mass spectroscopy
Titrimetric methods of analysis
Electroanaltical methods
Cyclic voltametry
SDS-Page electrophoresis
DNA electrophoresis
Refractive index measurement
Distillation
Extraction
Calorimetry
Sensor-based analytical methods
Chemical synthesis
All chemistry students will perform independent research, culminating in their senior thesis. Students are encouraged to gain laboratory and teaching experience through a variety of work-study options.
