Department of Physical Sciences (Chemistry, Environmental Geoscience, and Physics)

The Department offers degree programs in chemistry and environmental geosciences, as well as coursework in chemistry, geology, physical science, and physics. Minor programs are available in chemistry, geology, and physics. 3+1 agreements exist for programs in pharmacy and clinical laboratory science, which allow the student to attend Concord for three years and an off-campus School of Pharmacy or Medical Technology for the fourth year.

The mission of the Department is to provide course work and degree programs that enable the student to understand the fundamental principles of disciplines in the physical sciences, to develop an attitude of scientific objectivity and inquiry, and to acquire quantitative laboratory and field skills appropriate to scientific investigation. The Department operates the Concord University observatory for optical astronomy, maintains numerous laboratories for teaching and research, and provides an opportunity to study geology in the field using the ideal setting of southern West Virginia and research-grade geophysical instrumentation.

The student must earn a GPA of 2.00 (C) or higher in all courses required for most majors and all minors in the Department. Science education programs in Chemistry 9-Adult  and General Science 5-9  and 5-Adult  are administered by the Department and require a GPA of 2.50 or higher, with no grades in required courses less than a C. The Major in Chemistry (Pharmacy Option) 3+1 program  expects a GPA of 3.25 with no grades in required courses less than a C.

Chemistry

Students choosing a major in chemistry may pursue either: (I) the Bachelor of Science degree with a chemistry (comprehensive option)  major, a program designed for the preparation of professional chemists; (II) the Bachelor of Science degree with a chemistry (pre-professional option)  major, a program designed for those who wish to pursue a health-related profession such as medicine, pharmacy, or dentistry; (III) the Bachelor of Science degree with a chemistry (pharmacy option)  major, a 3+1 program joint with the University of Charleston Pharmacy School; (IV) the Bachelor of Science degree with a chemistry (clinical laboratory science option)  major, a 3+1 program joint with a hospital-based School of Medical Technology; or (V) the Bachelor of Science in Education degree .

Geology

Courses in geology focus on the scientific study of the Earth, its resources, and the analysis of environmental problems and natural hazards.  Geology is a field-based, interdiscipinary science.  The geological diversity of southern West Virginia provides an ideal natural laboratory for geoscience education.  Many courses incorporate field trips and field research projects that uniquely enhance classroom learning.  The geology program offers general studies courses, a minor and a major.