Undergraduate Courses 2025-26

a) Undergraduate courses marked with [BLD] or [SPO] may be offered in the mode of blended learning or self-paced online delivery respectively, subject to different offerings. Students should check the delivery mode of the class section before registration.

b) Undergraduate courses marked with [EXP] may adopt the approach of experiential learning subject to different offerings. Students should check the delivery mode of the class section before registration.

• CHEM 1002

  Introduction to Chemistry of Cosmetics

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  CORE 1121

  Description

  This course concentrates on the basic scientific principles in cosmetic science. Various topics with emphasis on molecular approach related to cosmetic products' formulation and proper uses of cosmetic products will be covered. Major topics include definition of cosmetics, make-up cosmetics, skin-care cosmetics, hair-care cosmetics, vehicles of cosmetic products, surfactants, colorants, alpha hydroxyl acids & beta hydroxyl acids, anti-oxidants and sunscreens, skin-whitening agents, hydrating substances / moisturizers, antiperspirants & deodorants and botanical ingredients.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Identify fundamentals of chemistry and the scientific basis for cosmetic formulation
  • 2.
    Identify the contribution of scientists in cosmetic product design and developments
  • 3.
    Explain how active ingredients in cosmetics are suitable for specific intended functions
  • 4.
    Identify fundamentals of chemistry and the scientific basis for the function of the active ingredients of cosmetics
• CHEM 1004

  Chemistry in Everyday Life

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  CORE 1120

  Exclusion(s)

  Level 3 or above in HKDSE Chemistry, a passing grade in GCE-A/AS Level Chemistry, CHEM 1008, CHEM 1010, CHEM 1011, CHEM 1012, any CHEM courses at or above 2000-level

  Cross-Campus Equivalent Course

  UCUG 1900

  Description

  This common core course takes students on a chemical journey, through which they will learn what is chemistry and how chemistry connects with our daily life and sustainable development. Students will engage in a self-guided study project; they will also learn chemical concepts through many real-life case studies. The basic ideas and principles of chemistry, as well as important chemical topics related to human activities and our environment will be discussed in this course: such as air, water, metals, minerals, air pollution, global warming, ozone depletion, batteries, fire and fuels, food and drinks, household chemical products and plastics. Students taking this course are not required to have studied Chemistry before.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Explain basic fundamental concepts of Chemistry, recognize basic chemical terminology and be able to perform simple chemical calculations
  • 2.
    Demonstrate an understanding of how Chemistry connects with our everyday experience, modern technology, and environmental sustainability issues
  • 3.
    Explain the basic Chemistry behind major environmental issues, common household items, and important industrial processes
  • 4.
    Obtain scientific information on chemistry topics of everyday and environmental relevance and to think critically from a chemistry perspective
• CHEM 1008

  Introductory Chemistry

  3 Credit(s)
  Exclusion(s)

  Level 3 or above in HKDSE 1/2x Chemistry OR HKDSE 1x Chemistry, any CHEM courses at or above 1004-level, CORE 1120

  Description

  This course targets science or engineering students with very little to no chemistry background. It provides a general introduction to basic principles of chemistry. Key topics include state of matters, atoms and elements, molecules and compounds, atomic structures and periodicity, molecular structures, quantities in chemical reactions, bonding theories, acids and bases, and solution chemistry. Students without HKDSE qualifications may seek instructor's approval for enrolment.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Develop a microscopic view of the world in terms of atoms and molecules.
  • 2.
    Recognize physical/chemical properties, physical/chemical changes.
  • 3.
    Apply knowledge of states of matter, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, atomic structure, chemical bonding, molecular structure, and intermolecular interactions.
  • 4.
    Obtain a basic knowledge of solution chemistry, acid-base chemistry, chemical equilibrium.
  • 5.
    Recognize and appreciate the impact and significance of chemistry to our society.
• CHEM 1010

  General Chemistry IA

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  Level 3 or above in HKDSE 1/2x Chemistry OR CHEM 1004

  Exclusion(s)

  Level 3 or above in HKDSE 1x Chemistry, CHEM 1008, CHEM 1012

  Description

  This course is an introduction to fundamental principles of chemistry for students who have learnt the basic knowledge of chemistry in high school. Topics include atomic structure and periodicity, chemical bonding and molecular structure, basic properties of gases, liquids and solids, chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, and basic organic and biological molecules.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Describe and apply fundamental principles and terminologies of chemistry.
  • 2.
    Develop a microscopic view of the world in terms of atoms and molecules and their change.
  • 3.
    Describe and apply concepts of mass conservation and energy conservation in chemical changes.
  • 4.
    Describe atoms and ions in terms of atomic structure, atomic orbitals, electron configuration, and periodicity of chemical properties.
  • 5.
    Describe molecules in terms of bonding theory, energy, molecular geometry and interactions.
  • 6.
    Describe a chemical reaction from both equilibrium, thermodynamics and kinetics point of views.
  • 7.
    Describe the physical states of matters: gases, liquids and solids.
  • 8.
    Recognize and appreciate the impact of chemistry to our society.
• CHEM 1011

  General Chemistry A: Reactions, Thermodynamics, and Reaction Kinetics

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  CHEM 1030

  Prerequisite(s)

  Level 3 or above in HKDSE 1/2x OR level 3 or above in HKDSE 1x Chemistry OR CHEM 1004 OR CHEM 1008

  Description

  This course targets at students who have acquired prior knowledge in fundamental Chemistry in high school. Key topics include stoichiometry, chemical energy, properties of aqueous solutions, acids and bases, thermodynamics and equilibrium, reaction kinetics, and electrochemistry.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Analyze properties of solutions and determine stoichiometry of chemical transformations.
  • 2.
    Describe different definitions of acids and bases theories and understand acid-base equilibrium.
  • 3.
    Apply the laws of thermodynamics and account for the factors that lead to spontaneous physical and chemical changes.
  • 4.
    Describe redox reactions, use electrochemical data to predict the spontaneity of redox reactions, and comprehend the structures of electrochemical cells.
  • 5.
    Understand the fundamental chemical properties of organic and biological molecules at a molecular level, differentiate between synthetic and natural polymers while appreciating the diverse roles played by biological molecules such as starch, cellulose, proteins, DNA, and RNA in living systems.
  • 6.
    Recognize the impact of chemistry to society.
• CHEM 1012

  General Chemistry B: Atomic Structure, Molecules, and Bonding Theories

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  CHEM 1020

  Prerequisite(s)

  Level 3 or above in HKDSE 1/2x OR level 3 or above in HKDSE 1x Chemistry OR CHEM 1004 OR CHEM 1008

  Exclusion(s)

  CHEM 1010

  Description

  This course targets at students who have acquired prior knowledge in fundamental Chemistry in high school. Key topics include atomic structure and periodicity, molecules, bonding theories, and properties of gases, liquids and solids. Other topics such as transition metals and coordination compounds, and organic molecules will be briefly reviewed.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Describe and apply fundamental principles and terminologies of chemistry.
  • 2.
    Develop a microscopic view of the world in terms of atoms and molecules and their change.
  • 3.
    Describe and apply concepts of mass conservation and energy conservation in chemical changes.
  • 4.
    Describe the atoms and ions in terms of atomic structure, atomic orbitals, electron configuration, and periodicity of chemical properties.
  • 5.
    Describe molecules in terms of bonding theory, energy, molecular geometry and interactions.
  • 6.
    Describe the physical states of matters: gases, liquids and solids.
  • 7.
    Recognize and appreciate the impact of chemistry to our society.
• CHEM 1051

  Laboratory for General Chemistry A

  1 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  CHEM 1055

  Corequisite(s)

  CHEM 1011

  Description

  This course is the laboratory class designed for students who are enrolled in CHEM 1011. With laboratory experience acquired in this course, students will be able to relate the physical and chemical principles and theories learned in the corresponding lecture course, perform basic chemical laboratory techniques, and develop their data analyzing skills. Graded P or F.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Recognize various kinds of equipment in chemistry laboratory.
  • 2.
    Conduct standard laboratory procedures involved in basic chemistry experiments.
  • 3.
    Conduct risk assessments concerning the use of chemical substances in basic chemistry experiments.
  • 4.
    Keep records of experimental work in basic chemistry experiments.
  • 5.
    Interpret experimental results for physical and chemical phenomena in basic chemistry experiments.
• CHEM 1052

  Laboratory for General Chemistry B

  1 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  CHEM 1050

  Corequisite(s)

  CHEM 1012

  Description

  This course is the laboratory class designed for students who are enrolled in CHEM 1012. With laboratory experience acquired in this course, students will be able to relate the physical and chemical principles and theories learned in the corresponding lecture course, perform basic chemical laboratory techniques, and develop their data analyzing skills. Graded P or F.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Recognize various kinds of equipment in chemistry laboratory.
  • 2.
    Conduct standard laboratory procedures involved in basic chemistry experiments.
  • 3.
    Conduct risk assessments concerning the use of chemicals in basic chemistry experiments.
  • 4.
    Keep record of experimental work in basic chemistry experiments.
  • 5.
    Interpret experimental results for physical and chemical phenomena in basic chemistry experiments.
  • 6.
    Work independently and collaborate in teamwork.
• CHEM 2110

  Organic Chemistry I

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 1012

  Exclusion(s)

  CHEM 2111

  Description

  This is the first part of the organic chemistry course series designed for students taking a major/minor in chemistry/life science under the four-year degree. Topics covered include: structure and bonding; regio-, geometric, and stereoisomerism; polar and radical reactions of alkenes and alkynes; substitution and elimination reactions; synthesis and reactions of alcohols and epoxides.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Recognize fundamentals of organic chemistry including structures, reaction mechanisms, and transformations of carbon-derived compounds.
  • 2.
    Explain the essential facts, principles, and theories of organic chemistry.
  • 3.
    Demonstrate awareness of organic chemistry topics relevance to social and daily life.
  • 4.
    Formulate and analyze mechanisms and products of organic transformations by applying organic chemistry principles.
• CHEM 2111

  Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 1010 OR CHEM 1012

  Exclusion(s)

  CHEM 2110

  Cross-Campus Equivalent Course

  AMAT 2030

  Description

  Various classes of organic compounds, emphasizing organic chemical reactions and mechanisms of major functionalities and their importance in the area of biological chemistry. For non-CHEM students in programs that designate this course as required course/specified elective only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Recognize fundamentals of organic chemistry including structures, reaction mechanisms, and some transformations of major classes of carbon-derived compounds.
  • 2.
    Explain the essential facts and principles of organic chemistry.
  • 3.
    Demonstrate awareness of organic chemistry topics relevance to social and daily life.
  • 4.
    Formulate and analyze mechanisms and products of some general organic transformations by applying organic chemistry principles.
• CHEM 2155

  Fundamental Organic Chemistry Laboratory

  1 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 1051 OR CHEM 1052

  Corequisite(s)

  CHEM 2110 OR CHEM 2111

  Exclusion(s)

  CHEM 2150 (prior to 2021-22), CHEM 2550

  Description

  This is the laboratory course designed for non-CHEM students who enrolled in CHEM 2110 or CHEM 2111. Students will perform a series of organic experiments related to the theories learnt in the related lecture courses. Students will be trained to practice a wide range of fundamental organic laboratory techniques, operate chemical instruments, relate the physical and chemical principles and theory in practice, and develop their data interpretation and analytical skills. For non-CHEM students in programs that designate this course as required course/specified elective only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Conduct analysis and interpretation of experimental data related to organic experiments.
  • 2.
    Assess and manage the risk of chemical substances and laboratory procedures, and evaluate their potential impact on the environment.
  • 3.
    Conduct standard laboratory procedures involved in synthetic and instrumental work related to organic experiments.
  • 4.
    Equip with hands on experiences in the operation of chemical instrumentation.
  • 5.
    Demonstrate self-awareness, to interact with other people in teamwork, and to work independently.
• CHEM 2210

  Inorganic Chemistry I

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 1012

  Description

  This course is designed for students who have taken CHEM 1011 under the four-year degree. Key topics include atomic structure, molecular structure and bonding, structures of simple solids, physical techniques in inorganic chemistry, molecular symmetry, acids and bases, introduction to coordination chemistry, electronic structures and spectra of coordination compounds. For students in the programs under the four-year degree that designate the course as required course/specified elective, or students with approval from the instructor.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Demonstrate a comprehensive and well-founded knowledge of structure and bonding theories that are relevant to inorganic molecular compounds.
  • 2.
    Rationalize the stability of inorganic compounds using concepts of acids and bases.
  • 3.
    Describe and rationalize structures of simple solids.
  • 4.
    Appreciate the importance of molecular symmetry in the field of chemistry and assign molecular point groups.
  • 5.
    Understand structures of coordination compounds.
• CHEM 2310

  Fundamentals of Analytical Chemistry

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 1012

  Exclusion(s)

  CHEM 2311

  Description

  Fundamental and practical aspects of chemical analysis, including titrimetric, electrical and spectroscopic methods, analytical separations by GLC and HPLC.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Recognize fundamentals of analytical chemistry including various concentration units, statistics for analytical chemistry, acid-base titrations, complexometric titrations, redox titrations, basics of optical spectroscopy, basics of chromatography and mass spectrometry.
  • 2.
    Explain the essential facts, principles and theories for analytical chemistry.
  • 3.
    Demonstrate awareness of topics of analytical chemistry relevant to social and daily life, such as environmental issues.
  • 4.
    Formulate and analyze a wide range of analytical chemical problems by applying chemical principles.
  • 5.
    Show appreciation of analytical chemistry and its interface with social and daily life such as environmental issues, and arouse audience’s interest in chemistry.
• CHEM 2311

  Analytical Chemistry

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 1010 OR CHEM 1012

  Exclusion(s)

  CHEM 2310

  Description

  Fundamental and practical aspects of chemical analysis, including titrimetric, electrical, optical and mass spectroscopic methods, analytical separations by chromatography. For non-CHEM students in programs that designate this course as required course/specified elective only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Recognize fundamentals of analytical chemistry including various concentration units, statistics for analytical chemistry, acid-base titrations, complexometric titrations, redox titrations, basics of optical spectroscopy, basics of chromatography and mass spectrometry.
  • 2.
    Explain the essential facts, principles and theories for analytical chemistry.
  • 3.
    Demonstrate awareness of topics of analytical chemistry relevant to social and daily life, such as environmental issues.
  • 4.
    Formulate and analyze a wide range of analytical chemical problems by applying chemical principles.
  • 5.
    Show appreciation of analytical chemistry and its interface with social and daily life such as environmental issues, and arouse audience’s interest in chemistry.
• CHEM 2350

  Analytical Chemistry Laboratory

  1 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  (CHEM 1010 OR CHEM 1012) AND CHEM 1052

  Corequisite(s)

  CHEM 2310 OR CHEM 2311

  Description

  This is the laboratory course corresponding to the lecture courses of CHEM 2310 and CHEM 2311. Experiments covered in this course will be closely connected with the topics covered in the lecture courses, including Beer's law, calibration principle, and some basic simple instrumental techniques such as Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry, Gas Chromatography, etc. For students in the programs under the four-year degree that designate this course as required course/specified elective.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Explain the essential facts, principles and theories in the area of analytical chemistry.
  • 2.
    Analyze and interpret experimental data and extract useful data from it.
  • 3.
    Assess and manage the risks of chemical substances and laboratory procedures by evaluating their potential impact on the environment.
  • 4.
    Conduct standard laboratory procedures involved in instrumental work.
  • 5.
    Operate a range of chemical instrumentation with adequate hands-on experiences.
  • 6.
    Work independently and collaborate effectively in teamwork.
• CHEM 2355

  Fundamental Analytical Chemistry Laboratory

  1 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 1051 OR CHEM 1052

  Corequisite(s)

  CHEM 2310 OR CHEM 2311

  Exclusion(s)

  CHEM 2350, CHEM 2555

  Description

  This is the laboratory course corresponding to the lecture courses of CHEM 2310 and CHEM 2311. Experiments covered in this course will be closely connected with the topics covered in the lecture courses, including calibration principle, and some basic optical and chromatographic instrumental techniques. For non-CHEM students in programs that designate this course as required course/specified elective only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Explain the essential facts, principles and theories in the area of analytical chemistry.
  • 2.
    Formulate and analyze a wide range of chemical problems by applying relevant chemical principles.
  • 3.
    Analyze and interpret experimental data and extract useful data from it.
  • 4.
    Conduct standard laboratory procedures involved in instrumental work.
  • 5.
    Operate a range of chemical instrumentation with adequate hands-on experiences.
  • 6.
    Assess and manage the risks of chemical substances and laboratory procedures by evaluating their potential impact on the environment.
  • 7.
    Demonstrate self-awareness, work independently and collaborative effectively with other people in a team.
• CHEM 2401

  Physical Principles for Biomolecular Science

  4 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  MATH 1005 OR MATH 1006 OR MATH 1013 OR MATH 1020 OR MATH 1023

  Exclusion(s)

  CHEM 2410

  Description

  This course introduces the physical principles that are essential to understanding important biological systems, utilizing techniques from chemistry, physics, and biology. Topics of study include enzyme dynamics, nucleic acid structures, metalloprotein active sites, and protein-ligand interactions. These investigations provide insights into fundamental biological processes and have significant implications for fields like protein design and drug discovery. For CHEM students only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Demonstrate advanced knowledge and understanding of key physical principles governing important biomolecular systems.
  • 2.
    Develop proficiency in solving classical biophysical chemistry problems using computational, numerical, and analytical methods.
  • 3.
    Gain expertise in research methods and analysis of research data in the field of biophysical chemistry.
  • 4.
    Exhibit comprehensive knowledge of the theoretical approaches in biophysical chemistry, and the ability to think critically about bimolecular research.
• CHEM 2409

  Mathematical Methods for Physical Chemistry

  4 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  MATH 1012 (prior to 2025-26) OR MATH 1013 OR MATH 1023

  Description

  This course covers mathematical and numerical methods for solving typical complex problems found in undergraduate-level physical chemistry courses. Topics include single variable integration, multivariate calculus, series and limits, ordinary and partial differential equations, determinants, matrices, vectors, and probability and statistics. For CHEM students or students with instructor's approval.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Understand how to interpret and classify integral/ordinary differential equations, to acquire basic skills to solve partial differential equations in quantum mechanics using computational, numeric and analytical methods.
  • 2.
    Analyze and interpret experimental data, critically assess data from literature sources and extract and apply useful data from those sources.
  • 3.
    Communicate effectively both orally and in writing to a professional and/or lay audience.
  • 4.
    Demonstrate self-awareness and the ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with other people in a team.
• CHEM 2410

  Physical Chemistry I: Equilibrium Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 1011 AND (CHEM 2409 OR MATH 2351)

  Cross-Campus Equivalent Course

  AMAT 2040

  Description

  The course consists of two parts. The first part teaches the equilibrium thermodynamics, covering the laws of thermodynamics and thermodynamics functions, with applications to various problems in phase equilibrium, chemical and electrochemical equilibrium. The second part teaches the equilibrium statistical thermodynamics, covering the Boltzmann distribution, the statistical ensembles and partition functions and their relations to thermodynamics functions. For CHEM students or students with instructor's approval.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Grasp the principles of thermodynamics in terms of four basic thermodynamic laws, use the thermodynamic functions, such as Gibbs energy, enthalpy, entropy, chemical potential, to judge the direction of spontaneous change and to study various physical and chemical equilibrium problems.
  • 2.
    Grasp the basic principles of equilibrium statistical mechanics, the concepts and skills of statistical ensembles and the partition functions and their relations to thermodynamics functions.
  • 3.
    Use the molecular partition functions and Boltzmann statistical mechanics to study the equilibrium thermodynamics properties and fluctuations of noninteracting molecular systems.
  • 4.
    Apply the principles of equilibrium thermodynamics to analyze and interpret a wide range of chemical problems from other sub-areas and interdisciplinary areas of chemistry.
  • 5.
    Analyze and judge the relevant issues and topics from daily life by employing the principles of thermodynamics and chemical equilibrium.
  • 6.
    Gain a qualitative impression of the common physical techniques and experimentally measures employed in the study of various physical and chemical equilibrium problems.
  • 7.
    Establish an effective scientific communication skill, in both oral and writing, in terms of equilibrium thermodynamics, chemical equilibria, and equilibrium statistical mechanics.
  • 8.
    Demonstrate information technology skills, especially in the areas of information retrieval, literature searching and library database relevant to thermodynamics and equilibrium statistical mechanics.
• CHEM 2450

  Physical Chemistry Laboratory

  1 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 1011 AND (CHEM 2409 OR MATH 2351)

  Corequisite(s)

  CHEM 2410

  Cross-Campus Equivalent Course

  AMAT 2450

  Description

  This is the laboratory course corresponding to the lecture course CHEM 2410. The topics of experiments covered in the laboratory course will be related to those taught in the lecture course, such as thermodynamics, etc. For CHEM students under the four-year degree only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Apply appropriate instruments to physical chemical analyses.
  • 2.
    Explain and interpret physical chemical data.
  • 3.
    Calculate physical chemical results from experimental data.
• CHEM 2550

  Synthetic Chemistry Laboratory I

  2 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 1052

  Corequisite(s)

  CHEM 2110 AND CHEM 2210

  Exclusion(s)

  CHEM 2150 (prior to 2021-22), CHEM 2155, CHEM 2250 (prior to 2021-22)

  Description

  This is the laboratory course designed for students who enrolled in CHEM 2110 Organic Chemistry l and CHEM 2210 Inorganic Chemistry I. It includes a series of organic and inorganic experiments related to the theory learnt in the lecture courses. Students will be trained to perform a wide range of basic synthetic chemistry laboratory techniques, operate chemical instruments in laboratory, relate the physical and chemical principles and theory in practice and develop their data interpretation and analyzing skills. For CHEM students only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Describe the fundamentals of organic and inorganic chemistry.
  • 2.
    Assess and manage the risks of organic and inorganic chemical substances and laboratory procedures.
  • 3.
    Conduct analysis and interpretation of experimental data of synthetic chemistry.
  • 4.
    Conduct standard laboratory procedures involved in fundamental chemical synthesis and instrumental work.
  • 5.
    Operate a range of chemical instrumentation.
  • 6.
    Work independently and collaborate in teamwork.
• CHEM 2555

  Molecular Characterization Chemistry Laboratory l

  2 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 1052 AND (CHEM 2409 OR MATH 2351)

  Corequisite(s)

  CHEM 2310 AND CHEM 2410

  Exclusion(s)

  CHEM 2350, CHEM 2355, CHEM 2450

  Description

  This is the laboratory course corresponding to the lectures of CHEM 2410 Physical Chemistry I and CHEM 2310 Fundamentals of Analytical Chemistry. The topic of experiments covered in this course are closely connected with the topics covered in the lecture courses, such as electrochemical equilibrium, chemical instrumental analysis, thermodynamics, etc. For CHEM students only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Explain the essential facts, principles and theories across the areas of chemistry, i.e. analytical and physical.
  • 2.
    Formulate and analyze a wide range of chemical problems by applying relevant chemical principles.
  • 3.
    Analyze and interpret experimental data, critically assess and extract useful data from it.
  • 4.
    Conduct standard laboratory procedures involved in instrumental and experimental work.
  • 5.
    Operate a range of chemical instrumentation with adequate hands-on experiences.
  • 6.
    Assess and manage the risks of chemical substances and laboratory procedures by evaluating their potential impact on the environment.
  • 7.
    Demonstrate self-awareness, work independently and collaborate effectively with other people in a team.
• CHEM 3010

  Great Ideas in Chemistry

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  Any CHEM course at or above 1000-level or CORE 1120

  Mode of Delivery

  [BLD] Blended learning

  Description

  The course covers many major advances, historical developments and contemporary applications of critical concepts in Chemistry. These may range from atomic theory and identification and arrangement of the elements to modern problems such as CO2 and global warming; pollution and environmental clean-up. Unlike other Chemistry courses it will focus on the background to our knowledge, on what experimental evidence our current theories are based, and how old ones were overturned or modified. For science students in their third or fourth year of study under the four-year degree only. Other students with the prerequisites may seek instructor's approval for enrollment in the course.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Develop a sounder knowledge based on examples from chemistry, physics and other disciplines.
  • 2.
    Have a better understanding of scientific method and knowledge of history of science and chemistry.
  • 3.
    More aware in revolution and evolution of scientific theories and the relationship of science, technology and society.
  • 4.
    Review the ethical behavior of scientists in both collaboration and competition.
  • 5.
    Develop critical reasoning.
  • 6.
    Communicate more effectively in speaking and writing and presentation skills.
  • 7.
    Demonstrate self-awareness, work independently and collaborate effectively with other people in a team.
• CHEM 3020

  Chemistry in the Mass Media

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  (CHEM 1010 OR CHEM 1012) AND CHEM 1052

  Mode of Delivery

  [EXP] Experiential learning

  Description

  The public receives a lot of chemical information through mass media platforms (e.g. television, newspaper, social media, advertisements and products’ labelling), but occasionally these contain Chemistry depicted in a misleading or even pseudoscientific way. This experiential learning course aims to teach students to understand and apply the scientific method (observations, hypothesis, predictions, experiments, biases, etc.) through highly interactive lectures and a case study project based on a chosen social or daily life Chemistry topic from the mass media. Working in small groups, students will conduct both literature and experimental research on their chosen topic to evaluate its scientific claims and the public perception to them, under the instructor's supervision. Towards the end of the course, students will write up their findings into a scientific report for professional audience and construct a piece of science communication for laymen audience. Students should seek instructor's approval prior to enrollment in the course.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Explain and apply the scientific method to social and daily life chemistry issues
  • 2.
    Distinguish between accurate depiction of science and pseudoscience
  • 3.
    Carry out literature research to assess social and daily life chemistry issues
  • 4.
    Design and execute experiments to assess social and daily life chemistry issues
  • 5.
    Communicate research findings to professional and laymen audience
  • 6.
    Construct accurate scientific communications based on scientific principles and values
• CHEM 3120

  Organic Chemistry II

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 2110

  Description

  Continuation of CHEM 2110. Dienes, resonance and aromaticity; electrophilic aromatic substitution and nucleophilic aromatic substitution; benzylic and allylic reactivity; the chemistry of carbonyl compounds and carboxylic acid derivatives; the chemistry of amines; pericyclic reactions.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Recognize fundamentals of organic chemistry including structures, reaction mechanisms, and transformations of carbon-derived compounds.
  • 2.
    Explain the essential facts, principles, and theories of organic chemistry.
  • 3.
    Demonstrate awareness of organic chemistry topics relevant to social and daily life.
  • 4.
    Formulate and analyze mechanisms and products of organic transformations by applying organic chemistry principles.
• CHEM 3220

  Inorganic Chemistry II

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 2210

  Description

  Mechanism of inorganic reactions, organometallic and bioinorganic chemistry, catalysis.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Recognize fundamentals of chemistry including structures, reactivity and properties of inorganic compounds and states of matters.
  • 2.
    Explain essential facts, principles, and theories of inorganic chemistry such as crystal field theory and the 18-electron rule.
  • 3.
    Demonstrate awareness of chemical topics relevant to social and daily life.
• CHEM 3320

  Instrumental Analysis

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 2310

  Description

  Continuation of CHEM 2310. Topics covered include electrochemistry, mass spectrometry and separation sciences.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Understand principles and grasp the fundamentals and working principles of modern instrumental analytical techniques, including electrochemical analysis, mass spectrometry, optical spectroscopic techniques, and surface analytical techniques.
  • 2.
    Explain knowledge and articulate the principles and applications of these instrumental analysis tools in college-level chemistry.
  • 3.
    Communicate effectively and convey knowledge related to instrumental analyses in scientific seminars and presentations, tailored to both professional audiences and the general public.
  • 4.
    Prepare for future research and equip themselves with a solid foundation in these analytical techniques for future experiments or research endeavors.
• CHEM 3420

  Physical Chemistry II

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 2410

  Description

  Basic quantum theory, atomic and molecular structure, equilibrium statistical thermodynamics.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Establish a recognition of the fundamentally important role of physical chemistry in molecular science.
  • 2.
    Gain a better understanding of the relationship between physical chemistry and other sub-areas of chemistry.
  • 3.
    Develop an appreciation of the relationship between chemistry and physics, mathematics and other disciplines in science.
  • 4.
    Assess and judge some of the pressing societal issues in health, environment, and new technologies from the point of view of physical chemistry.
• CHEM 3550

  Synthetic Chemistry Laboratory II

  2 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 2550

  Corequisite(s)

  CHEM 3120 AND CHEM 3220

  Description

  This is the laboratory course corresponding to the lecture courses CHEM 3120 and CHEM 3220. The topics of experiments covered in the laboratory course will be related to those taught in the lecture courses, such as electrophilic aromatic substitution and coordination chemistry, etc. For CHEM students under the four-year degree only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Describe the fundamentals of organic and inorganic chemistry.
  • 2.
    Assess and manage the risks of organic and inorganic chemical substances and laboratory procedures.
  • 3.
    Conduct analysis and interpretation of experimental data of synthetic chemistry.
  • 4.
    Conduct standard laboratory procedures involved in fundamental chemical synthesis and instrumental work.
  • 5.
    Operate a range of chemical instrumentation.
  • 6.
    Work independently and collaborate in teamwork.
• CHEM 3555

  Molecular Characterization Chemistry Laboratory II

  2 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 2555

  Corequisite(s)

  CHEM 3320 AND CHEM 3420

  Description

  This is the laboratory course corresponding to the lecture courses CHEM 3320 and CHEM 3420. The topics of experiments covered in the laboratory course will be related to those taught in the lecture courses, such as quantum chemistry, chemical instrumental analysis, etc. For CHEM students under the four-year degree only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Explain the essential facts, principles and theories in the area of analytical and physical chemistry.
  • 2.
    Formulate and analyze a wide range of chemical problems by applying chemical principles.
  • 3.
    Analyze and interpret experimental data and extract useful data from it.
  • 4.
    Conduct standard laboratory procedures involved in instrumental work.
  • 5.
    Operate a range of chemical instrumentation with adequate hands-on experiences.
  • 6.
    Assess and manage the risks of chemical substances and laboratory procedures by evaluating their potential impact on the environment.
• CHEM 3610

  Chemistry Internship

  2-3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 3550 OR CHEM 3555

  Description

  This course provides students with an opportunity to gain work experience in the chemistry field. Students will undertake training and supervised internships in our collaborating organizations/units. Credits assigned for each offering may be different depending on the total workload hours required. For CHEM students with instructor’s approval only. Graded P or F.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Apply academic knowledge to real-life situation.
  • 2.
    Communicate with professionals.
  • 3.
    Work independently and collaborate in teamwork.
  • 4.
    Reflect on their learning progress and develop motivation in lifelong learning.
• CHEM 3928

  Chemistry Undergraduate Seminar

  1 Credit(s)
  Description

  For Chemistry undergraduate students only. Each student is required to carry out a literature search on a selected topic under the supervision of a faculty member. He/she will submit a written report and give an oral presentation at the end of the semester. Graded P or F.
• CHEM 4110

  Structural Elucidation in Organic Chemistry

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 3120

  Description

  Use of modern ID- and 2D-NMR, IR, and Mass Spectrometric techniques for structure determination of organic molecules; theory of each technique with emphasis on development of problem-solving techniques.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Recognize and comprehend the basic principles of 1D- & 2D-NMR, IR and mass spectrometric techniques.
  • 2.
    Analyze spectroscopic data of organic compounds.
  • 3.
    Apply these spectrometric methods for structural determination of organic molecules.
• CHEM 4120

  Biomolecular Chemistry

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 2110 OR CHEM 2111

  Description

  This course will introduce the fundamental chemical principles underlying the structure, properties, and functions of biologically important molecules. Using the chemical concepts of bonding, structure, and structure-reactivity relationships developed in organic chemistry, this course will cover topics on the stereochemistry, structural diversity, physicochemical properties, and reactivity of amino acids, peptides, proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids to understand the molecular basis of their biological functions. Another major topic of this course is the preparation of these important biological molecules for understanding of their functions and exploitation of their biotechnological and medicinal values, using available organic chemistry methods.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Understand and recognize the fundamental chemical principles underlying the structure, properties, and functions of biologically important molecules
  • 2.
    Explain the essential facts, principles, and theories of the behaviors and properties of molecules in biological processes
  • 3.
    Understand the favorable and unfavorable interactions of living organisms with nature and environment to better appreciate the significance of regulation of food safety and environmental pollution
  • 4.
    Use the biologically important molecules in elucidation of their biological functions
  • 5.
    Formulate synthetic strategy for preparation of biological molecules for biotechnological and medicinal purposes
• CHEM 4130

  Medicinal Chemistry

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 3120

  Description

  This course will introduce the chemistry principles underlying the drug-target interaction and the development of drugs. One of its major topics is the molecular basis of the interaction of medicinal compounds with various biomolecules and the effect of their structure on their therapeutic activities. In addition, this course will discuss the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics properties of therapeutic agents and how these properties are related to their chemical structure. Moreover, another focus of this course is the chemical strategies to discover and optimize lead compounds that can eventually develop into agents of therapeutic values. For CHEM students and students with instructor's approval only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Understand and recognize the fundamental chemical principles underlying the interaction of small molecule therapeutic agents with human and other hosts
  • 2.
    Explain the essential facts, principles, and theories of the therapeutic agents in disease processes
  • 3.
    Understand the favorable and unfavorable interactions of living organisms with the small molecule therapeutic agents to better appreciate the significance of regulation of drug safety and prevention of drug abuse
  • 4.
    Formulate chemical strategies to discover hit and lead compounds in search of therapeutic agents against a disease target
  • 5.
    Formulate synthetic strategy for optimization of the lead compounds in order to develop them into agents of therapeutic values
• CHEM 4140

  Intermediate Organic Chemistry

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 3120

  Description

  Provides further training in the multistep organic synthesis of natural and unnatural products, and will focus on the retrosynthetic analysis, control of stereochemistry, carbonyl group chemistry, and pericyclic reactions with a brief coverage on new synthetic methodologies for efficient synthesis of compound libraries. A prerequisite for students wishing to take CHEM 5110/5120 as part of their undergraduate program.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Recognize and explain the essential facts, principles, and theories of organic chemistry including structures, stereochemistry, reaction mechanisms, and main transformations of carbon-derived compounds.
  • 2.
    Demonstrate awareness and appreciation of synthetic organic chemistry topics relevant to advancement in social and daily life.
  • 3.
    Formulate and analyze synthetic planning and products of multistep organic transformations by applying principles of retrosynthetic analysis.
  • 4.
    Communicate effectively in the community of synthetic organic chemistry both orally and in writing.
• CHEM 4150

  Biomolecular Synthesis Laboratory

  1 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 3550

  Corequisite(s)

  CHEM 4155

  Description

  This course provides hands-on experience for students in the biomolecular chemistry option. It focuses on synthesis of molecules of biological relevance, such as small-molecule drugs, peptides, and DNA. For CHEM students under the four-year degree only. Students with minor in CHEM may seek instructor’s approval for enrollment in the course.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Recognize fundamentals of chemistry including structure, reactivity and properties of chemical substances, and the states of matter.
  • 2.
    Explain the essential facts, principles and theories across organic and inorganic chemistry related to biomolecular chemistry.
  • 3.
    Assess and manage the risks of chemical substances and laboratory procedures, and evaluate their potential impact on the environment.
  • 4.
    Conduct standard laboratory procedures involved in synthetic work related to biomolecular chemistry.
  • 5.
    Conduct analysis and interpretation of experimental data related to biomolecular chemistry.
  • 6.
    Work independently and collaborate effectively in teamwork.
• CHEM 4155

  Biomolecular Characterization Laboratory

  1 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 3555

  Corequisite(s)

  CHEM 4150

  Description

  This course provides hands-on experience for students in the biomolecular chemistry option. It focuses on characterization of biologically relevant molecules, mainly nucleic acids and proteins. For CHEM students under the four-year degree only. Students with minor in CHEM may seek instructor’s approval for enrollment in the course.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Recognize fundamentals of chemistry including structure, reactivity and properties of chemical substances, and the states of matter.
  • 2.
    Explain the essential facts, principles and theories across organic and inorganic chemistry related to biomolecular chemistry.
  • 3.
    Assess and manage the risks of chemical substances and laboratory procedures, and evaluate their potential impact on the environment.
  • 4.
    Conduct standard laboratory procedures involved in instrumental work related to biomolecular chemistry.
  • 5.
    Conduct analysis and interpretation of experimental data related to biomolecular chemistry.
  • 6.
    Work independently and collaborate effectively in teamwork.
• CHEM 4160

  Cheminformatics

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 2110 AND (CHEM 2409 OR MATH 2351 OR DASC 2010)

  Description

  Basics of Chemometrics; Database mining (CSD and PDB); Multivariate data sets, statistics and data reduction; Data analysis and visualization; Molecular representation and chemical descriptors (e.g. SMILES / SMARTS patterns); Application to structure-based drug design.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Recognize the scope, methods and terminology of Cheminformatics.
  • 2.
    Describe classification and encoding of chemical information, data, structures and reactions.
  • 3.
    Demonstrate the skills of retrieving and analyzing information relevant to a particular problem through data mining and database searching.
  • 4.
    Select the correct cheminformatics techniques for a given goal.
  • 5.
    Assemble various cheminformatics methods to solve a chemical problem as a project.
• CHEM 4210

  Solid State Chemistry

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 3220

  Description

  Structure and bonding in solids; metals, semiconductors and dielectrics; crystal chemistry of ceramics, silicate minerals and zeolites; electrical, optical and magnetic properties of solids; fullerene chemistry; introduction to x-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, etc.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Use bonding theory, Pauling rules and the geometric information to analyze the local bonding in a solid structure.
  • 2.
    Assess surfaces and interfaces with chemical bonding knowledge.
  • 3.
    Apply fundamental chemistry principles (periodic table, electronegativity, etc) to understand the structural-property relationship of solids.
  • 4.
    Use basic crystallography to analyze the crystal unit cell of a solid state compound (e.g. the close packing pattern, the hole occupancy situation, etc).
  • 5.
    Present the most important knowledge and principles learned in this course in a clear and simple presentation.
  • 6.
    Understand important applications of solid-state materials and relate the applications with the main principles of solid-state chemistry.
• CHEM 4220

  Materials Chemistry

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 3220

  Exclusion(s)

  CHEM 5540, NANO 5100

  Description

  An introduction of crystalline solids, crystal structures, materials synthesis and characterization techniques, optical characterization methods, semiconductors, optical, electrical and magnetic properties, and nanoscale inorganic materials.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Learn the basic knowledge related with materials including organic, inorganic, hybrid, polymer and nanomaterials.
  • 2.
    Obtain basic crystallographic knowledge and understand the structures of complex crystals.
  • 3.
    Understand the chemical bonding from molecular orbitals to extended solids.
  • 4.
    Learn important synthetic methods for functional inorganic materials and nanomaterials.
  • 5.
    Obtain basic knowledge of important material characterization methods.
  • 6.
    Understand and predict materials’ properties from the fundamental chemistry principles (elemental composition, bonding, and crystal structure) learned in this course.
  • 7.
    Present the most important knowledge and principles learned in this course in a clear and simple presentation.
• CHEM 4230

  Materials Characterization Method

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 2310 AND CHEM 2410

  Cross-Campus Equivalent Course

  AMAT 4560

  Description

  This course will introduce a selected series of materials characterization methods with an emphasis on the characterization methods of nanomaterials, especially chemically processed nanomaterials. The characterization methods will include electron spectroscopies, electron microscopies, scanning probe microscopies, and optical, thermal, mechanical, scattering and diffraction methods. The course will provide a balanced mix of physical principles, application considerations, and practical examples of the characterization methods. For CHEM students and students with instructor's approval only

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Understand how to choose a characterization method for a given material property.
  • 2.
    Understand the working principles of the materials characterization methods.
  • 3.
    Understand how to get the maximum information from a characterization method for a given material.
• CHEM 4240

  Intermediate Inorganic Chemistry

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 3220

  Description

  Selected advanced topics in inorganic chemistry including spectroscopy (multinuclear NMR, IR and UV/visible), solid state chemistry, bioinorganic chemistry and catalysis.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Recognize fundamentals of chemistry, bonding, structures, reactivity of inorganic complexes and clusters.
  • 2.
    Explain essential facts, principles and theories of inorganic chemistry, e.g., spectral properties of inorganic complexes, mechanisms of inorganic reactions, Wades’ rules.
• CHEM 4250

  Materials Preparation Laboratory

  1 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 3550

  Corequisite(s)

  CHEM 4255

  Description

  This is a laboratory course for students to gain hands-on experiences in the preparation of modern materials. Students will have the opportunity to practice the synthesis of materials such as organic polymers, nanoparticles and solid materials. For CHEM students under the four-year degree only. Students with minor in CHEM may seek instructor’s approval for enrollment in the course.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Recognize fundamentals of chemistry including structure, reactivity and properties of chemical substances, and the states of matter.
  • 2.
    Explain the essential facts, principles and theories across organic and inorganic chemistry related to solid state materials.
  • 3.
    Assess and manage the risks of chemical substances and laboratory procedures, and evaluate their potential impact on the environment.
  • 4.
    Conduct standard laboratory procedures involved in synthetic work related to organic polymers and solid state materials.
  • 5.
    Conduct analysis and interpretation of experimental data related to solid state materials.
  • 6.
    Work independently and collaborate effectively in teamwork.
• CHEM 4255

  Materials Characterization Laboratory

  1 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 3555

  Corequisite(s)

  CHEM 4250

  Description

  This is a laboratory course for students to gain hands-on experiences in the characterization of modern materials. The characterization techniques include thermal analysis, gel permeation chromatography, viscosity, FT-IR, fluorescence spectrometry, and X-ray diffraction. For CHEM students under the four-year degree only. Students with minor in CHEM may seek instructor’s approval for enrollment in the course.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Recognize fundamentals of chemistry including structure, reactivity and properties of chemical substances, and the states of matter.
  • 2.
    Explain the essential facts, principles and theories across organic and inorganic chemistry related to solid state materials.
  • 3.
    Assess and manage the risks of chemical substances and laboratory procedures, and evaluate their potential impact on the environment.
  • 4.
    Conduct standard laboratory procedures involved in instrumental work related to organic polymers and solid state materials.
  • 5.
    Conduct analysis and interpretation of experimental data related to solid state materials.
  • 6.
    Work independently and collaborate effectively in teamwork.
• CHEM 4310

  Environmental Chemistry

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 2310 OR CHEM 2311

  Description

  Chemical phenomena in the hydrosphere, lithosphere and atmosphere; their interaction with the biosphere; origin and treatment of pollutants and hazardous waste; environmental monitoring and analysis.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Explain the essential facts, principles and theories in environmental science.
  • 2.
    Evaluate and discuss the relevance of chemistry to environmental issues.
  • 3.
    Analyze and interpret experimental data, critically assess data from literature sources and extract and apply useful data from those sources.
  • 4.
    Demonstrate self-awareness and the ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with other people in a team.
• CHEM 4320

  Environmental Analytical Chemistry

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 2310 OR CHEM 2311

  Description

  Topics covered include fundamentals of sampling issues, sample pretreatment techniques, water Analysis of major and trace constituents; determination of inorganic and organic gas pollutants, Atmospheric analysis of particulate matter, determination of soil pollutants, environmental control standards, chemometrics in environmental analysis. For students with major or minor in Chemistry and in Environmental Science only.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Define major environmental analysis approaches.
  • 2.
    Describe different sampling approaches.
  • 3.
    Differentiate commonly used pretreatment techniques for environmental samples.
  • 4.
    Reproduce the working principles of major, minor and trace constituents in water and aqueous samples.
  • 5.
    Propose suitable sampling and analysis techniques for common gaseous inorganic and organic pollutants.
  • 6.
    Design suitable sampling and analysis techniques for major constituents and trace organic compounds in atmospheric particulate matter.
  • 7.
    Plan calibration and reference measurements for the quantification of a chemical species in environmental matrices.
• CHEM 4330

  Separation Science

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 2310 or CHEM 2311

  Description

  This course aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the working principles in separating substances by chemical and physical techniques. Topics in this course include: sample preparation for chromatographic analysis; instrumentation for gas and liquid chromatography; mass spectrometry, and etc. Applications of various separation techniques for forensic, environmental, biological, pharmaceutical, food and drink analyses are provided as illustrating examples.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Explain the essential facts, principles and theories across the four principal areas of chemistry, i.e. analytical, organic, inorganic and physical.
  • 2.
    Demonstrate awareness of chemical topics relevance to social and daily life such as environmental issues.
  • 3.
    Formulate and analyze a wide range of analytical and synthetic chemical problems by applying chemical principles.
  • 4.
    Communicate effectively both orally and in writing with professionals and/or lay audience.
• CHEM 4340

  Bioanalytical Techniques

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 2310 OR CHEM 2311

  Description

  Topics covered include fundamentals of optical microscopic techniques, protein analysis, enzymatic bioassays; DNA techniques and biomicrofluidic techniques.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Describe the fundamentals of bioanalytical techniques including their working principles, and the interpretation of analytical data and their relations with the chemistry information of the samples.
  • 2.
    Evaluate and discuss the relevance of the bioanalytical techniques to social and daily life, for example in relations to human health.
  • 3.
    Analyze a wide range of analytical chemical problems by applying the analytical principles.
  • 4.
    Apply the bioanalytical technique knowledge in the study of scientific literature, and self-learn the latest, related techniques.
• CHEM 4350

  Environmental Chemistry Laboratory

  1 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  (CHEM 2310 OR CHEM 2311) AND (CHEM 2555 OR CHEM 2355)

  Corequisite(s)

  CHEM 4355

  Description

  This is a laboratory course for students to gain hands-on experience in collecting and handling environmental samples. Experiments covered in this course will be related to collection, preparation and chemical analysis of various environmental samples. Students should seek instructor’s approval prior to enrollment in the course.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Explain the essential facts, principles and theories across the areas of chemistry, i.e. analytical and environmental chemistry.
  • 2.
    Formulate and analyze a wide range of environmental analytical chemical problems by applying relevant chemical principles.
  • 3.
    Analyze and interpret experimental data, critically assess and extract useful data from it.
  • 4.
    Conduct standard laboratory procedures involved in instrumental and experimental work.
  • 5.
    Operate a range of chemical instrumentation with adequate hands-on experiences.
  • 6.
    Assess and manage the risks of chemical substances and laboratory procedures by evaluating their potential impact on the environment.
  • 7.
    Demonstrate self-awareness, work independently and collaborative effectively with other people in a team.
• CHEM 4355

  Instrumental Analytical Chemistry Laboratory

  1 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  (CHEM 2310 OR CHEM 2311) AND (CHEM 2555 OR CHEM 2355)

  Corequisite(s)

  CHEM 4350

  Description

  This is a laboratory course for students to gain hands-on experiences in operation of the modern instruments. The instruments include liquid chromatography, gas chromatography, ion chromatography, mass spectrometer, etc. Students should seek instructor’s approval prior to enrollment in the course.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Explain the essential facts, principles and theories across the areas of chemistry, i.e. instrumental analytical chemistry.
  • 2.
    Formulate and analyze a wide range of instumental analytical chemical problems by applying relevant chemical principles.
  • 3.
    Analyze and interpret experimental data, critically assess and extract useful data from it.
  • 4.
    Conduct standard laboratory procedures involved in instrumental and experimental work.
  • 5.
    Operate a range of chemical instrumentation with adequate hands-on experiences.
  • 6.
    Assess and manage the risks of chemical substances and laboratory procedures by evaluating their potential impact on the environment.
  • 7.
    Demonstrate self-awareness, work independently and collaborative effectively with other people in a team.
• CHEM 4410

  Physical Chemistry in Biological Applications

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 3420

  Description

  This course covers the applications of physical chemistry in biological science and emphasizes the capability in using the fundamental knowledge in physical chemistry to solve the latest research problems in the interdisciplinary areas. Topics include molecular interpretations of the laws of thermodynamics, free energy and physical equilibria in membranes, photochemistry and photobiology, enzyme kinetics, binding and conformation transitions, spectroscopy of biomolecular structures and interactions.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Understand how to interpret fundamental concept from physical chemistry in the application of biological science
  • 2.
    Have the skill set to do literature review to gather information for the development of the industry and the academia in biological science
  • 3.
    Apply the knowledge from physical chemistry to solve the problems in the application of biological science
  • 4.
    Present and criticize the knowledge from physical chemistry in the application of biological science
• CHEM 4420

  Statistical Machine Learning Methods for Chemical Data Analysis

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 2409 OR DASC 2010

  Exclusion(s)

  COMP 4211, MATH 4432

  Description

  The basic knowledge of probability and statistics, chemical data preparation and visualization; numerical methods for chemical data analysis: regression, classification, feature selection and neural network.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Comprehend the fundamentals of statistics and probability.
  • 2.
    Comprehend key ideas, methods, and techniques of machine learning methods.
  • 3.
    Appreciate typical machine learning methods.
  • 4.
    Implement basic chemical data collection, representation and processing.
  • 5.
    Develop machine learning models for a given problem.
  • 6.
    Present ideas and finds effectively, think critically and learn independently.
• CHEM 4430

  Symmetry in Chemistry and Spectroscopy

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 2110 AND CHEM 2210 AND CHEM 2410

  Description

  Symmetry principle and group theory, molecular spectroscopy, advanced topics in molecular orbital theory and bonding, chemical kinetics.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Appreciate the significance and limitations of symmetry principles and group theory in chemistry.
  • 2.
    Grasp symmetry operations and their classifications, including the ability to identify and describe these operations in molecular structures.
  • 3.
    Understand the concepts of point group theory and the structures of point groups, including the ability to assign point groups to various molecular structures based on their symmetry properties.
  • 4.
    Classify and correlate molecular structures according to their chirality and other symmetry properties, recognizing the implications of these classifications.
  • 5.
    Correctly assign a point group to a molecular structure or figurer based on its symmetry properties and establish hierarchical relationships between different groups.
  • 6.
    Get familiar with the structures, properties, and usage of character tables of point groups, and apply this knowledge to analyze molecular properties.
  • 7.
    Apply point group theory methods to analyze ground state properties of molecules, including electric dipole moment, electric quadrupole moment, and optical activity, utilize point group theory to analyze bonding from Molecular Orbital Theory (MOT) and Valence Bond Theory (VBT).
  • 8.
    Enhance students’ perspective on chemistry as a scientific discipline, fostering a mindset and way of thinking that integrates symmetry and spectroscopy into their understanding of chemical phenomena, and particularly beneficial for students planning postgraduate study or careers in research and teaching in chemistry.
• CHEM 4550

  Advanced Synthetic Laboratory

  1 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 3550

  Corequisite(s)

  CHEM 4555

  Description

  This course provides hands-on experience for students in the pure chemistry option. It emphasizes on the advanced lab techniques such as the setup for air sensitive reaction and use of vacuum line. Experiment of different areas like metal catalyzed cross coupling, regiospecific synthesis and preparation of a mimic model of natural catalyst will be included. For CHEM students under the four-year degree only. Students with minor in CHEM may seek instructor’s approval for enrollment in the course.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Recognize fundamentals of chemistry including structure, reactivity and properties of chemical substances, and the states of matter.
  • 2.
    Explain the essential facts, principles and theories across organic and inorganic chemistry.
  • 3.
    Assess and manage the risks of chemical substances and laboratory procedures, and evaluate their potential impact on the environment.
  • 4.
    Conduct standard laboratory procedures involved in synthetic work.
  • 5.
    Conduct analysis and interpretation of experimental data.
  • 6.
    Work independently and collaborate effectively in teamwork.
• CHEM 4555

  Advanced Molecular Characterization Laboratory

  1 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 3555

  Corequisite(s)

  CHEM 4550

  Description

  This course is designed for chemistry major students who are enrolling in Pure Chemistry option. It provides students hands-on experience in the operation of different instruments including High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC) for characterization of organic products. For CHEM students under the four-year degree only. Students with minor in CHEM may seek instructor’s approval for enrollment in the course.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Recognize fundamentals of chemistry including structure, reactivity and properties of chemical substances, and the states of matter.
  • 2.
    Explain the essential facts, principles and theories across organic and inorganic chemistry.
  • 3.
    Assess and manage the risks of chemical substances and laboratory procedures, and evaluate their potential impact on the environment.
  • 4.
    Conduct standard laboratory procedures involved in instrumental work.
  • 5.
    Conduct analysis and interpretation of experimental data.
  • 6.
    Work independently and collaborate effectively in teamwork.
• CHEM 4620

  Organometallic Chemistry

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 3220

  Description

  Bonding, structure and reactivity of organometallic compounds, ligand substitution, oxidative addition, reductive elimination reactions, insertions and reactions of coordinated ligands, applications to catalytic processes and organic synthesis.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Recognize organometallic ligands and compounds.
  • 2.
    Devise synthetic route to common organometallic compounds.
  • 3.
    Describe fundamental organometallic reactions.
  • 4.
    Select catalysts for common organometallic based catalytic reactions.
  • 5.
    Describe mechanisms of common organometallic-based catalytic reactions, and propose catalytic cycles for metal-catalyzed catalytic reactions.
• CHEM 4640

  Chemistry for Advanced Solar Cell Technologies

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  (for Science students) CHEM 2110 AND CHEM 2410; (for Engineering students) CHEM 2111

  Description

  Solar Cells are considered as one of the most promising renewable energy technologies. Conventional solar cells are based on inorganic materials such as silicon. In the past decade, however, several new solar cell technologies based on organic materials are emerging as promising alternatives to conventional solar cells. This is an exciting and highly interdisciplinary area involving Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, and Electronic Engineering. The study on organic solar cells provides an excellent platform for Science and Engineering students to learn about how to do research in a multidisciplinary environment. Another key focus of this course is to improve students' communication and interview skills through in-class presentations and group discussions on cutting-edge technologies.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Introduce the general background of organic electronics.
  • 2.
    Introduce how solar cells work, including both organic and inorganic solar cells.
  • 3.
    Apply basic chemistry knowledge to several important chemistry/material-based applications.
  • 4.
    Understand important parameters that influence the performance of organic solar cells.
  • 5.
    Practice presentation skills and deliver short presentations on general technology topics in a clear and interesting style.
  • 6.
    Relate basic science knowledge to various emerging applications.
• CHEM 4680

  Undergraduate Research

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 2550

  Description

  Students do original research in accordance with their ability and background, and under the supervision of a faculty. The final course grade is determined based on an oral presentation and a written report to be submitted to a judging committee, which includes the faculty supervisor plus at least one other faculty. Enrollment in the course requires approval of the faculty supervisor.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Work independently, to handle and use appropriate instrumentation, interpret data and complete given tasks in a research setting, and to prepare a written report.
  • 2.
    Communicate more effectively in speaking and writing, both about students’ newly acquired knowledge and knowledge in general.
  • 3.
    Recognize deficiencies in knowledge existing in chemistry, and plan and mount a research study to address these deficiencies.
  • 4.
    More critically assess data presented in textbooks, the primary literature or other sources, e.g. electronic databases, patents.
  • 5.
    Appreciate the importance of research in relation to science, the definition of problems in research, and the corpus of scientific knowledge is able to expand through the overall research effort for the betterment of humankind.
• CHEM 4688

  Undergraduate Thesis

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 4680

  Description

  Offered every semester and Summer. Students do original research in accordance with their ability and background and under the supervision of a faculty. The final course grade is determined based on an oral presentation and a written thesis to be submitted to a judging committee, which includes the faculty supervisor plus at least one other faculty. The thesis should include the results of the original research carried out in CHEM 4680.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Work independently, to handle and use appropriate instrumentation, interpret data and complete given tasks in a research setting, and to prepare a written report.
  • 2.
    Communicate more effectively in speaking and writing, both about students’ newly acquired knowledge and knowledge in general.
  • 3.
    Recognize deficiencies in knowledge existing in chemistry, and plan and mount a research study to address these deficiencies.
  • 4.
    More critically assess data presented in textbooks, the primary literature or other sources, e.g. electronic databases, patents.
  • 5.
    Appreciate the importance of research in relation to science, the definition of problems in research, and the corpus of scientific knowledge is able to expand through the overall research effort for the betterment of humankind.
• CHEM 4689

  Capstone Project

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 3550 AND CHEM 3555

  Exclusion(s)

  CHEM 4691

  Description

  Under the supervision of a faculty member or teaching staff, students will complete a capstone project which requires the integration of the chemical knowledge learnt from their previous courses. The project can be delivered through the format of literature review, research, or practical study. A written report and an oral presentation are required to document their learning experiences. For CHEM students under the four-year degree only. Students should seek instructor's approval prior to enrollment in the course.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Demonstrate awareness of chemical topics relevant to social and daily life.
  • 2.
    Analyze and interpret experimental data, critically assess data in literature and extract useful data from it.
  • 3.
    Carry out directed research by selecting appropriate topics and procedures, and presenting the results.
  • 4.
    Communicate effectively both orally and in writing with professionals and/or lay audience.
  • 5.
    Demonstrate information technology skills, especially in the areas of information retrieval, literature searching and use of library database.
  • 6.
    Show self-awareness, work independently and collaborate effectively with other people in a team.
• CHEM 4691

  Capstone Research I

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 3550 AND CHEM 3555

  Exclusion(s)

  CHEM 4689

  Description

  Students will carry out a research project in one of the Chemistry research laboratories under the supervision of a faculty member. This research-based course provides students an opportunity to integrate and apply their chemical knowledge learnt in regular lecture and laboratory courses. At the end of the course, students are required to submit a written report and deliver an oral presentation to document their learning experiences. For CHEM students only. Students should seek instructor's approval prior to enrollment in the course.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Demonstrate awareness of chemical topics relevant to social and daily life.
  • 2.
    Analyze and interpret experimental data, critically assess data in literature and extract useful data from it.
  • 3.
    Carry out directed research by selecting appropriate topics and procedures, and presenting the results.
  • 4.
    Communicate effectively both orally and in writing with professionals and/or lay audience.
  • 5.
    Demonstrate information technology skills, especially in the areas of information retrieval, literature searching and use of library database.
  • 6.
    Show self-awareness, work independently and collaborate effectively with other people in a team.
• CHEM 4692

  Capstone Research II

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CHEM 4691

  Description

  Continuation of research project started in CHEM 4691 and to be conducted under the supervision of a faculty member/teaching staff. A written report and oral presentation are required to document their learning experiences. Students should seek instructor's approval prior to enrollment in the course.

  Intended Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • 1.
    Demonstrate awareness of chemical topics relevant to social and daily life.
  • 2.
    Analyze and interpret experimental data, critically assess data in literature and extract useful data from it.
  • 3.
    Carry out directed research by selecting appropriate topics and procedures, and presenting the results.
  • 4.
    Communicate effectively both orally and in writing with professionals and/or lay audience.
  • 5.
    Demonstrate information technology skills, especially in the areas of information retrieval, literature searching and use of library database.
  • 6.
    Show self-awareness, work independently and collaborate effectively with other people in a team.