The goals of the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department are to provide a program which emphasizes the basic understanding of the constituents of matter, its transformations and  the chemical principles involved therein. The department also promotes the study of the chemical and biochemical environment and the manner and methods by which they are investigated.

To accomplish this goal, students are provided with a basic framework of knowledge by which they can carry out further study and research and understand the implications of scientific discoveries, inventions and their impact upon human welfare.  They learn to think analytically and independently and are encouraged to apply this knowledge ethically throughout their lifetimes to civic, personal and professional problems. As a result, students are prepared for careers in the various disciplines and subdisciplines of chemistry and biochemistry, in the teaching of these disciplines and for pursuing higher studies in basic and applied sciences or to follow professional careers in medicine, dentistry, law or in other areas.