University Chemistry course Syllabus

This MicroBachelors® program offers a rigorous, university-level foundation in general chemistry, designed to mirror a full-semester on-campus course. Over approximately 24–32 weeks, learners engage with four core modules covering essential principles of chemistry, each requiring 6–8 weeks of dedicated study. The course emphasizes quantitative problem-solving, scientific reasoning, and mathematical rigor, preparing students for advanced STEM coursework and credit transfer. With a weekly time commitment of 8–12 hours, this course is ideal for learners seeking strong preparation in chemistry for academic and professional pathways.

Module 1: Atomic Structure and Periodic Properties

Estimated time: 120 hours

• Study atomic models and historical development of atomic theory
• Understand electron configurations and quantum numbers
• Explore periodic trends such as ionization energy, electronegativity, and atomic radius
• Apply quantum principles to explain chemical behavior
• Develop foundational problem-solving skills in atomic structure

Module 2: Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure

Estimated time: 120 hours

• Learn ionic and covalent bonding mechanisms
• Construct and interpret Lewis structures
• Apply VSEPR theory to predict molecular geometry
• Analyze molecular polarity and dipole moments
• Examine intermolecular forces and their effects on physical properties

Module 3: Thermodynamics and Chemical Reactions

Estimated time: 120 hours

• Study energy changes in chemical reactions
• Understand enthalpy, entropy, and Gibbs free energy
• Perform calorimetry calculations and interpret reaction energetics
• Apply thermodynamic principles to predict reaction spontaneity

Module 4: Kinetics, Equilibrium, and Electrochemistry

Estimated time: 120 hours

• Analyze reaction rates and determine rate laws
• Study chemical equilibrium and apply Le Chatelier’s principle
• Explore acid-base chemistry and pH calculations
• Learn redox reactions and electrochemical cell fundamentals

Module 5: Final Project

Estimated time: 40 hours

• Solve a comprehensive problem set integrating atomic structure, bonding, and thermodynamics
• Analyze a real-world chemical system using kinetics and equilibrium principles
• Submit a final assessment demonstrating mastery of quantitative problem-solving in electrochemistry and thermodynamics

Prerequisites

• Strong foundation in algebra (including logarithms and exponents)
• Familiarity with basic scientific notation and units
• High school-level chemistry recommended but not required

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Explain atomic structure and predict periodic trends using quantum principles
• Analyze molecular geometry and bonding using Lewis structures and VSEPR theory
• Solve quantitative problems involving enthalpy, entropy, and Gibbs free energy
• Interpret reaction kinetics, chemical equilibrium, and acid-base systems
• Demonstrate readiness for advanced STEM coursework with transferable credit