CHEM 1120 Health Sciences – Syllabus and Course Policies

CHEM 1120: Chemistry for the Health Sciences

Course Overview

This course introduces students to the fundamental principles of general chemistry, with an emphasis on concepts relevant to the allied health professions. CHEM1120 fulfills the General Education, Natural Science designation and is designed to provide a foundation for further study in health-related fields.

• Instructor: Dr. James E. Collins

• Section: 003

• Semester: Fall 2025

• Meeting Times: 9:30–10:45 AM, TTH, Science and Technology Building, Room 207

Required Materials

• Textbook: "Fundamentals of General, Organic and Biological Chemistry" by John McMurry et al. (8th edition, hard copy or eText)

• Online Access: Modified Mastering Chemistry via Canvas

• Notebook: For homework and notes

Technology Requirements

• Access to a personal computer or mobile device with a compatible browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari).

• Ability to open .mp4 video files within Canvas.

• Participation in online assignments and quizzes via "My Lab and Mastering Chemistry" and Canvas.

Course Description

The objective of this course is to introduce the student to fundamental principles of general chemistry as they are related to the allied health professions. Topics include atomic structure, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, states of matter, solutions, acids and bases, and basic organic and biological chemistry concepts.

Attendance and Participation

• Attendance is monitored via Poll Everywhere; students must register and participate to earn points.

• Each question posted in class is worth 2 points; a correct response is required for full credit.

• Up to 10% of the points for attendance/participation can be missed without penalty; additional absences require documentation.

Homework and Online Assignments

• Assignments are completed and graded online using "My Lab and Mastering Chemistry."

• Assignments are posted in Canvas under the "Assignments" or "Dynamic Study Modules" sections.

• Assignments are due by the posted deadline; late work is generally not accepted unless otherwise specified.

• Dynamic Study Module assignments allow up to 30 minutes to complete.

Exams and Grading

• Three exams will be given during the semester (weighted 40% of your course average).

• Final exam is comprehensive (weighted 20%).

• Homework and online assignments (20%).

• Attendance and participation (10%).

• Lowest exam score will be dropped; remaining two exams will be averaged.

• Make-up exams are generally not given except for documented emergencies.

Academic Integrity and Conduct

• All students are expected to adhere to the university's academic integrity policy.

• Cheating, plagiarism, or other forms of academic dishonesty will not be tolerated.

Disability Accommodations

• Students requiring accommodations should contact the Department of Disability Support Services.

Student Assistance

• Office hours: Monday and Friday, 9:00–11:00 AM, or by appointment.

• Additional help is available via email and Canvas.

• Students are encouraged to use available resources, including study guides and group study sessions.

Course Schedule

• A tentative class schedule is provided in the syllabus appendix (not included in these notes).

• Topics covered include atomic structure, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, states of matter, solutions, acids and bases, and introductory organic and biological chemistry.

Summary Table: Grading Breakdown

Component	Weight (%)
Exams (best 2 of 3)	40
Final Exam	20
Homework/Online Assignments	20
Attendance/Participation	10
Other (as specified)	10

Additional Info

• Canvas is the primary platform for course communication, assignments, and grades.

• Students should regularly check Canvas for announcements and updates.

• In the event of campus emergencies or disruptions, continuity of instruction will be maintained via online resources.