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Chemistry

Overview Degrees/Certificates Courses

American River College’s chemistry program offers you a high quality education whether you are seeking to transfer to a four-year college, obtain an Associate’s Degree, or seeking to obtain career technical education. The highly trained faculty in the Chemistry Department is committed to rigorous academic standards, offering a large selection of classes at a variety of day and night times, a student-friendly atmosphere, and interactive classes. Our diverse faculty is dedicated to teaching and learning. They have backgrounds that cover all aspects of chemistry. The department provides hands-on experiential learning as well as access to a nationally award-winning peer assisted tutorial program (Beacon).

Degrees Offered

A.S. in General Science

Dean Joel Keebler
Phone (916) 484-8107
Email askhb-STEM@arc.losrios.edu

Associate Degree

A.S. in General Science

This program provides a broad study in the fields of biological and physical sciences in preparation for transfer to a four-year program and continuation of studies in upper division science courses.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Degree Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
A minimum of 18 units from the following:		18¹
Physical Science Courses
ASTR 300	Introduction to Astronomy (3)
ASTR 310	The Solar System (3)
ASTR 320	Stars, Galaxies, and Cosmology (3)
ASTR 330	Introduction to Astrobiology (3)
ASTR 400	Astronomy Laboratory (1)
ASTR 481	Honors Astronomy: Stars, Galaxies, and Cosmology (4)
ASTR 495	Independent Studies in Astronomy (1 - 3)
ASTR 499	Experimental Offering in Astronomy (0.5 - 4)
CHEM 305	Introduction to Chemistry (5)
CHEM 306	Introduction to Organic and Biological Chemistry (5)
CHEM 309	Integrated General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry (5)
CHEM 310	Chemical Calculations (4)
CHEM 338	Chemistry In Your World (3)
CHEM 400	General Chemistry I (5)
CHEM 401	General Chemistry II (5)
CHEM 420	Organic Chemistry I (5)
CHEM 421	Organic Chemistry II (5)
CHEM 423	Organic Chemistry - Short Survey (5)
CHEM 495	Independent Studies in Chemistry (1 - 3)
CHEM 499	Experimental Offering in Chemistry (0.5 - 4)
GEOG 300	Physical Geography: Exploring Earth's Environmental Systems (3)
GEOG 301	Physical Geography Laboratory (1)
GEOG 305	Global Climate Change (3)
GEOG 306	Weather and Climate (3)
GEOG 307	Environmental Hazards and Natural Disasters (3)
GEOG 308	Introduction to Oceanography (3)
GEOG 309	Introduction to Oceanography Lab (1)
GEOG 391	Field Studies in Geography: Mountain Landscapes (1 - 4)
GEOG 392	Field Studies in Geography: Coastal Landscapes (1 - 4)
GEOG 393	Field Studies in Geography: Arid Landscapes (1 - 4)
GEOG 394	Field Studies in Geography: Volcanic Landscapes (1 - 4)
GEOG 495	Independent Studies in Geography (1 - 3)
GEOG 499	Experimental Offering in Geography (0.5 - 4)
GEOL 300	Physical Geology (3)
GEOL 301	Physical Geology Laboratory (1)
GEOL 305	Earth Science (3)
GEOL 306	Earth Science Laboratory (1)
GEOL 310	Historical Geology (3)
GEOL 311	Historical Geology Laboratory (1)
GEOL 320	Global Climate Change (3)
GEOL 325	Environmental Hazards and Natural Disasters (3)
GEOL 330	Introduction to Oceanography (3)
GEOL 331	Introduction to Oceanography Lab (1)
GEOL 345	Geology of California (3)
GEOL 392	Field Studies in Mountain Landscapes (1 - 4)
GEOL 393	Field Studies in Coastal Landscapes (1 - 4)
GEOL 394	Field Studies in Volcanic Landscapes (1 - 4)
GEOL 495	Independent Studies in Geology (1 - 3)
GEOL 499	Experimental Offering in Geology (0.5 - 4)
PHYS 310	Conceptual Physics (3)
PHYS 311	Basic Physics (3)
PHYS 312	Conceptual Physics Laboratory (1)
PHYS 350	General Physics (4)
PHYS 360	General Physics (4)
PHYS 410	Mechanics of Solids and Fluids (5)
PHYS 421	Electricity and Magnetism (4)
PHYS 431	Heat, Waves, Light and Modern Physics (4)
PHYS 495	Independent Studies in Physics (1 - 3)
PHYS 499	Experimental Offering in Physics (0.5 - 4)
Biological Science Courses
ANTH 300	Biological Anthropology (3)
ANTH 301	Biological Anthropology Laboratory (1)
ANTH 303	Introduction to Forensic Anthropology (3)
ANTH 370	Primatology (3)
ANTH 480	Honors Biological Anthropology (3)
ANTH 495	Independent Studies in Anthropology (1 - 3)
ANTH 499	Experimental Offering in Anthropology (0.5 - 4)
BIOL 300	The Foundations of Biology (3)
BIOL 301	Evolution (3)
BIOL 303	Survey of Biology (4)
BIOL 305	Natural History (4)
BIOL 310	General Biology (4)
BIOL 322	Ethnobotany (3)
BIOL 332	Introduction to Ornithology (4)
BIOL 342	The New Plagues: New and Ancient Infectious Diseases Threatening World Health (3)
BIOL 352	Conservation Biology (3)
BIOL 370	Marine Biology (4)
BIOL 375	Marine Ecology (3)
BIOL 390	Natural History Field Study (0.5 - 4)
BIOL 400	Principles of Biology (5)
BIOL 410	Principles of Botany (5)
BIOL 415	Introduction to Biology: Biodiversity, Evolution, and Ecology (5)
BIOL 420	Principles of Zoology (5)
BIOL 430	Anatomy and Physiology (5)
BIOL 431	Anatomy and Physiology (5)
BIOL 440	General Microbiology (4)
BIOL 442	General Microbiology and Public Health (5)
BIOL 482	Honors Marine Biology (4)
BIOL 495	Independent Studies in Biology (1 - 3)
BIOL 499	Experimental Offering in Biology (0.5 - 4)
BIOT 301	Biotechnology and Human Health (3)
BIOT 305	Introduction to Bioinformatics (1)
BIOT 307	Biotechnology and Society (2)
BIOT 311	Biotechnology Laboratory Methods - Molecular Techniques (2)
BIOT 312	Biotechnology Laboratory Methods - Microbial and Cell Culture Techniques (2)
BIOT 499	Experimental Offering in Biology (0.5 - 4)
NATR 300	Introduction to Natural Resource Conservation and Policy (4)
NATR 301	Introduction to Ornithology (4)
NATR 302	Introduction to Wildlife Biology (4)
NATR 303	Energy and Sustainability (3)
NATR 304	The Forest Environment (3)
NATR 305	Fisheries Ecology and Management (4)
NATR 306	Introduction to Rangeland Ecology and Management (3)
NATR 307	Principles of Sustainability (4)
NATR 310	Study Design and Field Methods (4)
NATR 320	Principles of Ecology (4)
NATR 322	Environmental Restoration (2)
NATR 324	Field Studies: Birds and Plants of the High Sierra (1.5)
NATR 330	Native Trees and Shrubs of California (4)
NATR 332	Wildflowers of California (3)
NATR 346	Water Resources and Conservation (3)
NATR 495	Independent Studies in Natural Resources (1 - 3)
NATR 499	Experimental Offering in Natural Resources (0.5 - 4)
PSYC 310	Biological Psychology (3)
PSYC 311	Biological Psychology Laboratory (1)
PSYC 495	Independent Studies in Psychology (1 - 3)
PSYC 499	Experimental Offering in Psychology (0.5 - 4)
Total Units:		18

¹must be transfer-level and must include one laboratory course in a physical science and one laboratory course in a biological science

The General Science Associate in Science (A.S.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus general education requirements, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See ARC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

evaluate new and accepted ideas about the natural universe using scientific methods.
analyze a wide variety of natural phenomena using basic definitions and fundamental theories of biological or physical sciences.
apply appropriate quantitative and qualitative methods to interpret and analyze pertinent data.
outline the basic concepts and fundamental theories of a natural science.
articulate orally and/or in writing the importance of continuous examination and modification of accepted ideas as a fundamental element in the progress of science.
discuss ethical components of scientific decision making and apply personal and social values within the process of decision making in scientific endeavors.

Chemistry (CHEM) Courses

CHEM 83 Strategies for Problem Solving in General, Organic and Biological Chemistry

Units:0.75
Hours:40.5 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Corequisite:CHEM 309
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course develops analytical reasoning strategies, critical thinking skills, and problem-solving abilities for both quantitative and qualitative problems in chemistry. It is designed to support students enrolled in CHEM 309 at American River College. Pass/No Pass only.

CHEM 84 Strategies for Problem Solving in General Chemistry I

Units:0.75
Hours:40.5 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Corequisite:CHEM 400
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

CHEM 86 Strategies for Problem Solving in Organic Chemistry I

Units:0.75
Hours:40.5 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Corequisite:CHEM 420
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

CHEM 87 Strategies for Problem Solving in Organic Chemistry II

Units:0.75
Hours:40.5 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Corequisite:CHEM 421
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

CHEM 88 Strategies for Problem Solving in Short Survey Organic Chemistry

Units:0.75
Hours:40.5 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Corequisite:CHEM 423
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course develops analytical reasoning strategies, critical thinking skills, and problem-solving abilities for both quantitative and qualitative problems in organic chemistry. It is designed to support students enrolled in CHEM 423 at American River College.

CHEM 130 Chemistry for Funeral Service

Units:4
Hours:72 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Corequisite:BUS 340, FSE 310, and FSE 320
Enrollment Limitation:Acceptance into the Funeral Service Education program.
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is a survey of the basic principles of chemistry as they relate to funeral service. Topics include chemical principles involved in sanitation, disinfection, public health, and embalming practices. It also covers the development and use of personal, professional, and community sanitation practices, as well as use of and precautions related to potentially harmful chemicals that are currently used in the field of funeral service.

CHEM 305 Introduction to Chemistry

Units:5
Hours:72 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:Successful completion of Algebra I/Integrated Math 1 or Beginning Algebra or through the Los Rios Math Placement Process.
Advisory:Eligible for ENGRD 310 or ENGRD 312 AND ENGWR 300; OR ESLW 340.
Transferable:CSU; UC (Credit Limitation: No credit if taken after CHEM 400)
General Education:AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; CSU Area B3; IGETC Area 5A; IGETC Area 5C
C-ID:C-ID CHEM 101; Part of C-ID PHYS 140
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course covers general principles of chemistry, such as unit analysis, atomic structure, nomenclature, mole concept, stoichiometry, and gases. It also introduces organic chemistry and biochemistry. This course is primarily designed for allied health majors.

CHEM 306 Introduction to Organic and Biological Chemistry

Units:5
Hours:72 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:CHEM 305 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC (Credit Limitation: No credit if taken after CHEM 400)
General Education:AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; CSU Area B3; IGETC Area 5A; IGETC Area 5C
C-ID:C-ID CHEM 102
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is a continuation of CHEM 305. It covers the organic functional groups and reactions involved in the chemistry of life (biochemistry) as applied to the health sciences.

CHEM 309 Integrated General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry

Units:5
Hours:72 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:Successful completion of Algebra I/Integrated Math 1 or Beginning Algebra or through the Los Rios Math Placement Process.
Corequisite:CHEM 83
Advisory:One year of high school chemistry with a grade of "C" or better; AND eligibility for ENGRD 310 or ENGRD 312 AND ENGWR 300, OR ESLW 340.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; CSU Area B3; IGETC Area 5A; IGETC Area 5C
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an intensive survey of general, organic, and biological chemistry specifically designed for students majoring in nursing and other health-related fields. Topics include general chemistry, organic chemistry, and biological chemistry as they apply to the chemistry of the human body. This course satisfies the requirements of those health-career programs which require one semester of chemistry. Students enrolled in this course are strongly encouraged to co-enroll in CHEM 83.

CHEM 310 Chemical Calculations

Units:4
Hours:54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:Algebra II/Integrated Math 3 or Intermediate Algebra or through the Los Rios Math Placement Process.
Advisory:Eligible for ENGRD 310 or ENGRD 312 AND ENGWR 300; or ESLW 340.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area IV
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces calculations, terminology, chemical techniques, and laboratory techniques. It provides intensive problem solving skills necessary for CHEM 400.

CHEM 338 Chemistry In Your World

Units:3
Hours:40 hours LEC; 42 hours LAB
Prerequisite:Completion of elementary algebra with a "C" or better.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; CSU Area B3; IGETC Area 5A; IGETC Area 5C
C-ID:C-ID CHEM 100
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course forms links between chemistry and various academic disciplines. It explores the connection of chemistry to each and every one of us. This course begins with an introduction to the periodic table, basic atomic structure, and compounds. It covers fundamental concepts by analyzing environmental, health, social, historical, economic, cultural, and current scientific problems in chemical contexts. It applies the scientific method, introduces essential chemical laboratory techniques, and enhances research, written and oral communication skills.

CHEM 400 General Chemistry I

Units:5
Hours:54 hours LEC; 108 hours LAB
Prerequisite:Successful completion of Algebra II/Integrated Math 3 or Intermediate Algebra or through the Los Rios Math Placement Process AND one of the following: 1) CHEM 310 with a grade of "C" or better; or, 2) Previous chemistry course (such as CHEM 305, CHEM 309, or a full year of high school chemistry) with a grade of "C" or better AND a passing score on the Chemistry Assessment Test at American River College.
Advisory:Eligible for ENGRD 310 or ENGRD 312 AND ENGWR 300; OR ESLW 340.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; CSU Area B3; IGETC Area 5A; IGETC Area 5C
C-ID:C-ID CHEM 110; Part of C-ID CHEM 120S
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course covers the basic principles of chemistry with an emphasis on chemical calculations, chemical reactions including balancing of complicated reduction-oxidation (REDOX) reactions, stoichiometry, gas laws, thermochemistry, atomic structure and bonding theories, ionic equations, solutions, intermolecular forces and phases of matter, and acid/base chemistry including titrations and pH. Laboratory work is devoted to investigations of the theoretical work discussed in lecture.

CHEM 401 General Chemistry II

Units:5
Hours:54 hours LEC; 108 hours LAB
Prerequisite:CHEM 400 with a grade of "C" or better
Advisory:Completion of ENGRD 310, ENGWR 300, or ESLW 340
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; CSU Area B3; IGETC Area 5A; IGETC Area 5C
C-ID:Part of C-ID CHEM 120S
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is a continuation of the principles of chemistry with emphasis on equilibria, bonding, thermodynamics, kinetics, and electrochemistry. A brief introduction to organic chemistry is included. Laboratory work is devoted to quantitative and qualitative analysis and experiments dealing with the theoretical work discussed in lecture.

CHEM 420 Organic Chemistry I

Units:5
Hours:54 hours LEC; 108 hours LAB
Prerequisite:CHEM 401 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC (CHEM 420 & 423 combined: maximum credit - one course)
General Education:AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; CSU Area B3; IGETC Area 5C
C-ID:C-ID CHEM 150; Part of C-ID CHEM 160S
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is designed to prepare students who are majoring in chemistry or chemical engineering, for transfer to a four-year institution, or to prepare students for entrance into professional schools in the fields of medicine, pharmacy, or dentistry. Emphasis is on the application of modern principles regarding structure, reactivity, methods of synthesis and physical properties of carbon compounds.

CHEM 421 Organic Chemistry II

Units:5
Hours:54 hours LEC; 108 hours LAB
Prerequisite:CHEM 420 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; CSU Area B3; IGETC Area 5A; IGETC Area 5C
C-ID:Part of C-ID CHEM 160S
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course covers general physical and chemical properties of aromatic compounds, ethers, carbonyl compounds, amines, carbonyl derivatives, and biological compounds of interest. It also includes mass spectrometry, ultraviolet-visible (UV-VIS) spectroscopy, and carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Special attention is given to development of reaction mechanisms, methods of organic synthesis, and instrumental analysis as they apply to organic chemistry.

CHEM 423 Organic Chemistry - Short Survey

Units:5
Hours:72 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:CHEM 401 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC ((CHEM 420 & 423 combined: maximum credit - one course))
General Education:CSU Area B1; CSU Area B3; IGETC Area 5A; IGETC Area 5C
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is a survey of carbon containing compounds with emphasis on organic compounds of biological interest. Topics include the chemistry of organic functional groups, Infra Red spectroscopy, and mechanisms of reactions. This course is designed primarily for students majoring in the life sciences, nutrition/dietetics, and related fields. This course is not recommended for students majoring in chemistry, chemical engineering, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, or chiropractics.

CHEM 495 Independent Studies in Chemistry

Units:1 - 3
Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

Independent Study is an opportunity for the student to extend classroom experience in this subject, while working independently of a formal classroom situation. Independent study is an extension of work offered in a specific class in the college catalog. To be eligible for independent study, students must have completed the basic regular catalog course at American River College. They must also discuss the study with a professor in this subject and secure approval. Only one independent study for each catalog course will be allowed.

CHEM 499 Experimental Offering in Chemistry

Units:0.5 - 4
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.