Department of Chemistry and Physics

Sarah Porter, Chair

The Department offers majors and minors in chemistry and physics. A student may major or minor in more than one area with the appropriate selection of courses. The department also offers degrees in cooperation with institutions in dual-degree engineering; pre-professional health programs prepare students for professional schools in a number of health-oriented professions. Students may elect to pursue a secondary teaching endorsement with successful completion of additional science, education, science education, and special education courses. The Department of Chemistry and Physics offers courses that satisfy the science reasoning requirements for the Civitae Core Curriculum in all degree programs of Longwood.

The aim of study in the Department of Chemistry & Physics is to develop an interest in the natural world and to acquire the scientific habit of problem-solving through experimentation, accurate observation, independent thought, and cooperative learning. To achieve these goals, the department instills in students theoretical and methodological proficiencies, critical thinking skills, and strong written and oral communication skills. Application of knowledge and skills to practical experiences is incorporated throughout the curriculum through experiential and technological learning.

ASSESSMENT: The Department of Chemistry and Physics requires chemistry majors to take standardized exams distributed by the American Chemical Society in all areas of study (i.e., general, organic, inorganic, analytical, and physical chemistry).

Chemistry

Faculty

Sarah G. Porter, PhD, Professor of Chemistry
Melissa C. Rhoten, PhD, Professor of Chemistry
Tyler St. Clair, PhD, Associate Professor of Chemistry and Science Education
Benjamin Topham, PhD, Associate Professor of Chemistry
Jonathan White, PhD, Assistant Professor of Chemistry
Andrew Yeagley, PhD, Associate Professor of Chemistry and Program Coordinator

Physics

Faculty

Timothy Holmstrom, PhD, Professor of Physics and Program Coordinator
Michelle Parry, PhD, Professor of Physics
Kenneth Pestka II, PhD, Associate Professor of Physics
Charles D. Ross, PhD, Professor of Physics

Programs

Bachelor of Science

Minor