Principles and applications of gas chromatography/mass spectrometry is being introduced into the chemistry curriculum as one phase of improving chemical education. Through the purchase of a bench top GC/MS complete with computer operating system and software the students are being given the opportunity to gain hands on experience with this powerful modern analytical technique. The instrumentation is being introduced in analytical and advanced opportunities sequence and carries over into organic, inorganic, physical and biochemistry courses. The project is fostering within the undergraduates the familiarity, knowledge, and expertise in modern chemical instrumentation required for successful undergraduate research, careers in industry or entry into professional and graduate schools. Through an advanced opportunity program, students are being exposed to the major areas of chemical instrumentation in their freshman and sophomore years. Analytical instrumentation, presently fragmented throughout the curriculum, is being brought together in a unified junior level advanced analytical course. A new emphasis is being brought to undergraduate research within the department. The grantee is matching the award from non-Federal sources.
