Web Site of the Department

Head of Department : Ayşe Neren Ökte

Associate Department Head: Rana Sanyal

Professors : Naz Zeynep Atay Gök, Duygu Avcı Semiz, Viktorya Aviyente^†*, Şaron Çatak, Nihan Nugay, Turgut Nugay, Ayşe Neren Ökte, Hadi Özbal^†, Rana Sanyal.

Associate Professors : Ali Ersin Acar, Oktay Demircan, Ayşe Başak Kayıtmazer

Assistant Professors : Mehmet Nurullah Ateş, Mehmet Fırat İlker

Instructors : Özge Akdeniz, Dr. Jesmi Çavuşoğlu, Dr. Reyhan İşeri, Dr. Ediz Taylan, Rahman Başaran.

Assistants : Meltem Alkış, Ruveyda Kılıç Boz, Büşra Cengiz, Enfal Çivril, Beyza Demirkol, Nora Ejderyan, Başak Fındık, Derya Karagöz Girişgen, Salli Koçak, Hüseyin Kuruoğlu, İpek Munar, Beyza Şengül, Suffana Tuncer            

* Part-time
† Professor Emeritus
 

In a scientific and technological age, everyone should be exposed to some degree to the theories, laws, applications and potentials of chemistry. The department provides students with a knowledge and understanding of the composition, structure, properties, and transformations of natural and man-made substances. Introductory courses in the department provide a broad overview of the science of chemistry for non-science and non-chemistry majors. Intermediate and advanced courses provide a solid foundation for those who wish to pursue graduate work in chemistry or for those who choose chemistry-related careers in industry, government and education. Qualifications for a career in teaching high school chemistry may be earned by enrolling in supplementary credits in education methodology. All courses are supplemented with laboratory classes in which the students become skilled in "wet" chemistry, and at the same time become acquainted with the advanced instrumental techniques.

The course requirement for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry is a minimum of 135 (244 ECTS) credit-hours of formal course work. In addition to the course-credit requirements, the equivalent of minimum 60 work-days of training in a chemistry related-facility approved by the department.

There are double-major programs with the Departments of Physics, Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering and Molecular Biology and Genetics.

The Department of Chemistry is responsible for the organization and implementation of STS (Science, Technology, and Society) courses offered as HSS electives to science and engineering majors with junior or senior standing.

Established

1957

ISCED Code

4-44-442

Educational goals and objectives

The Department of Chemistry is committed to advancing the knowledge of Chemistry through teaching and research.

Admission and special requirements

Boğaziçi University accepts Turkish students graduated from high schools or equivalent institutions through the central entrance examination conducted by the Measuring, Selection and Placement Center (ÖSYM). Admission of students from abroad to Undergraduate Programs is conducted in accordance with the provisions of “Rules Governing Admission of Students from Abroad” issued by the Higher Education Council (YÖK) and Boğaziçi University’s “Directives Governing Application, Admission, and Registration of Students from Abroad to Undergraduate Programs of Boğaziçi University”.   For detailed information about application instructions to undergraduate programs, please visit the following web page: https://www.boun.edu.tr/en_US/Content/Prospective_Students/Undergraduate_Admissions  

Acknowledgement of previous learning

The course substitution and exemption requirements for undergraduate programs are specified in ARTICLE 14 of Boğaziçi University Rules and Regulations Governing Undergraduate Studies, which became effective after being published in the Official Gazette on June 11, 2016. https://www.boun.edu.tr/tr_TR/Content/Ogrenciler/Ogrenci_Isleri/Yonetmelik_ve_Ic_Tuzukler/BU_Lisans_Egitim_ve_Ogretim_Yonetmeligi#:~:text=MADDE%2031%20%E2%80%93%20(1)%20Bir,P%20notu%20ile%20tamamlamas%C4%B1%20gerekir. 

Graduation requirements

The graduation requirements for undergraduate programs are specified in ARTICLE 31 of the Boğaziçi University Rules and Regulations Governing Undergraduate Studies, which became effective after being published in the Official Gazette on June 11, 2016. https://www.boun.edu.tr/tr_TR/Content/Ogrenciler/Ogrenci_Isleri/Yonetmelik_ve_Ic_Tuzukler/BU_Lisans_Egitim_ve_Ogretim_Yonetmeligi#:~:text=MADDE%2031%20%E2%80%93%20(1)%20Bir,P%20notu%20ile%20tamamlamas%C4%B1%20gerekir 

Program learning outcomes

1. An ability to demonstrate fundamental knowledge and understand core concepts in chemistry, including organic, analytical, inorganic, and physical chemistry.
2. An ability to learn laboratory techniques, safety procedures, and data analysis and to conduct experiments accurately and interpret results effectively.  
3. An ability to use mathematical methods to analyze experimental data and draw meaningful conclusions. 
4. An ability to critically evaluate scientific literature, analyze complex chemical problems, and develop innovative solutions using scientific reasoning.
5. An ability to convey scientific information and data through written reports, and oral presentations, catering to a range of audiences.  
6. An ability to understand the ethical considerations and responsibilities associated with chemical research, including issues related to safety, environmental impact and responsible conduct of research.
7. An ability to recognize the connections between chemistry and other scientific disciples, facilitating collaboration and problem-solving across different fields.An ability to recognize the connections between chemistry and other scientific disciples, facilitating collaboration and problem-solving across different fields.
8. An ability to use modern instruments and technologies in chemical research, such as spectroscopy, chromatography and computational modelling.
9. An ability to demonstrate professionalism, including punctuality, teamwork, and adapt to various work environments, whether in academia or industry.
10. An ability to understand the importance of staying updated with advancements in the chemistry field, engaging continuing education, pursuing advanced degrees if desires and staying informed about emerging trends in chemistry. 

TYYÇ Ulusal Yeterlikler

TYYÇ Alan Yeterlikleri

UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAM

Total number of credits required for a BS degree is 135 (242/245 ECTS).

*Students whose Proficiency Exam score is C are required to take AE 101, while students whose Proficiency Exam score is C+ are required to take AE 111. Students whose Proficiency Exam score is A or B are required to take an at least 3- credit HSS Elective course.

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

CHEM 100 Orientation to Chemistry (1+0+0) 1 ECTS 2
(Kimyaya Yönlendirme)
A general overview of Chemistry, research areas in Chemistry and lab safety.

CHEM 101 General Chemistry I (3+1+0) 3 ECTS 6
(Genel Kimya I)
Fundamental concepts of chemistry; atomic structure, periodic trends, chemical bonding, gases, liquids, solids, solutions.

CHEM 102 General Chemistry II (3+1+0) 3 ECTS 6
(Genel Kimya II)
Fundamental topics in chemistry; thermochemistry, thermodynamics, kinetics, equilibrium, acids and bases, solubility equilibrium, electrochemistry.

CHEM 105 Fundamentals of Chemistry (3+1+3) 4 ECTS 6
(Kimyanın Temelleri) 
Atomic and molecular structures, solids, liquids, gases, solutions of electrolytes (properties, acids and bases, electrochemistry), thermodynamics, thermochemistry and rates and mechanisms of reactions. Three hours of laboratory per week.

CHEM 106 General Chemistry Laboratory (1+0+3) 2 ECTS 4          
(Genel Kimya Laboratuvarı)
A short history of chemistry, its development and contribution to humanity; basic laboratory skills and their application to the understanding of matter and its properties.
Corequisite: CHEM 102.

CHEM 111 Survey of Chemistry I (3+0+0) 3 ECTS 4
(Kimyaya Genel Bakış I) 
Methods and techniques of chemistry, structure of atoms and the chemical bond, states of matter, gases, liquids, solids, atmosphere and related environmental problems, aqueous solutions and equilibria, water and related environmental problems, thermochemistry and energy resources of the world. Open to non-science students.

CHEM 112 Survey of Chemistry II (3+0+0) 3 ECTS 4
(Kimyaya Genel Bakış II) 
Introduction to the elements of organic chemistry, nomenclature and chemical bonding in organic compounds, functional groups and reactivity, carbohydrates, fats and proteins, food and mineral resources of living organisms. Open to non-science students.

CHEM 161 Computer Applications in Chemistry (2+0+3) 3 ECTS 3
(Kimyada Bilgisayar Uygulamaları)
An introduction to the use of personal computers (PCs) in everyday chemical work, providing writing, drawing, pai

CHEM 213 Organic Chemistry I (4+1+0) 4 ECTS 6
(Organik Kimya I)
An introductory course covering the basic organic chemistry concepts; properties and reactions of alkanes, alkyl halides, alkenes, alkynes with emphasis on structure and stereochemistry; nucleophilic substitution and elimination reactions, alcohols and ethers.
Prerequisite: CHEM 102.
Note: Must be taken concurrently with CHEM 215 when registered for the first time.

CHEM 214 Organic Chemistry II (4+1+0) 4 ECTS 6
(Organik Kimya II)
Properties and reactions of conjugated systems, aromatic compounds, aldehydes and ketones, carboxylic acids, and derivatives and amines. An introduction to structure determination of organic compounds using spectroscopic methods.
Prerequisite: CHEM 213.
Note: Must be taken concurrently with CHEM 216 when registered for the first time.

CHEM 215 Organic Chemistry Laboratory I (1+0+3) 2 ECTS 4
(Organik Kimya Laboratuvarı I)
Basic techniques of separation, identification and purification of organic compounds and application of these to simple organic reactions.
Corequisite: CHEM 213*.
Note: Must be taken simultaneously with this course when taking for the first time.

CHEM 216 Organic Chemistry Laboratory II (1+0+3) 2 ECTS 4
(Organik Kimya Laboratuvarı II)
Synthesis and identification of various organic compounds.
Corequisite: CHEM 214*.
Note: Must be taken simultaneously with this course when taking for the first time.

CHEM 223 Analytical Chemistry (3+1+0) 3 ECTS 6
(Analitik Kimya) 
Introduction to the theory and application of quantitative analysis, solubility, gravimetric and volumetric methods of analysis, acid-base titration, precipitation titration, complex formation titration. Unit operations, sampling techniques, data and error analysis.
Prerequisite: CHEM 102.
Note: Must be taken concurrently with CHEM 225 when registered for the first time.

CHEM 224 Instrumental Analysis I (3+1+0) 3 ECTS 6
(Aletli Analiz I)  
Introduction to the theory and application of potentiometric, electrogravimetric and coulometric methods of analysis. Analytical separations by extraction, ion exchange and chromatographic methods. Spectroscopic methods of analysis, atomic absorption and emission.
Prerequisites: CHEM 223 and CHEM 225.
Note: Must be taken concurrently with CHEM 226 when registered for the first time.

CHEM 225 Analytical Chemistry Laboratory (1+0+3) 2 ECTS 4
(Analitik Kimya Laboratuvarı)
 Applications of gravimetric and volumetric analysis methods of acid-base mixtures, oxidation-reduction, precipitation and complex formation titration.

CHEM 226 Instrumental Analysis Laboratory (1+0+3) 2 ECTS 4
(Aletli Analiz Laboratuvarı)
Potentiometric, conductometric, electrogravimetric and spectroscopic (U.V.-Visible) methods of analysis. Ion exchange separations, various chromatographic techniques and atomic absorption spectroscopy. Analysis of ores, alloys, foodstuff and environmental samples.

CHEM 234 Inorganic Chemistry I (3+1+0) 3 ECTS 6
(Anorganik Kimya I)
Atomic and molecular structure; chemical bonding; molecular symmetry; introduction to coordination compounds, nomenclature and stereochemistry.
Prerequisites: CHEM 101 and CHEM 102.
 

CHEM 241 Organic Chemistry for Engineering and Life Sciences (3+1+3) 4 ECTS 6
(Mühendislik ve Doğa Bilimleri İçin Organik Kimya)
Introduction to organic chemistry for engineering and life science majors. Subjects covered include alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, isomerism, resonance, aromatic compounds and substitution reactions. This course satisfies the prerequisite requirements for CHEM 214.
Prerequisite: CHEM 102.

CHEM 250 Principles of Analytical Chemistry (3+ 1 +3) 4 ECTS 6
(Analitik Kimyanin Prensipleri)
A survey of the methods of quantitative analysis including gravimetric and volumetric methods; neutralization; oxidation-reduction; precipitation; complexometric titrations; solubility; buffer solutions; unit operations, sampling techniques, data and error analysis; an introduction to spectroscopy; UV-visible spectroscopy; laboratory experiences involving gravimetric, volumetric and spectrophotometric methods.
Prerequisitie: CHEM 102.

CHEM 316 Organic Chemistry  III  (3+1+0) 3 ECTS 6
(Organik Kimya III)
Carbonyl additions; Aldol and Claisen condensations; acetoacetic and malonic ester syntheses; Michael additions; other syntheses via enolates;  amines; phenols; aryl halides and nucleophilic aromatic addition reactions; rearrangements; and an introduction to pericyclic reactions.
Prerequisite: CHEM 214.

CHEM 325 Instrumental Analysis II (3+0+0) 3 ECTS 6
(Aletli Analiz II) 
An introduction to spectroscopy and spectroscopic instrumentation; analysis and identification of organic compounds using UV-Visible, ORD-CD, IR, NMR and Mass spectrometers.
Prerequisite: CHEM 214.

CHEM 335 Inorganic Chemistry II (3+1+0) 3 ECTS 6                     
(Anorganik Kimya II)
Group theory, crystal field theory, ligand field theory, electronic spectroscopy, reaction mechanisms and catalysis of transition-metal complexes; organometallic compounds.
Prerequisite: CHEM 234 or consent of the instructor.

CHEM 337 Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory (1+0+3) 2 ECTS 4
(Anorganik Kimya Laboratuvarı)
Synthesis and characterization of different types of metallic and organometallic compounds.
Note: Must be taken concurrently with CHEM 335 when registered for the first time.

CHEM 345 Equilibrium Thermodynamics (4+1+0) 4 ECTS 6
(Denge Termodinamiği)
The first law of thermodynamics and thermochemistry, the second and third law of thermodynamics, the entropy concept, physical and chemical equilibrium, thermodynamics of phase change and chemical reactions, solutions ideal and dilute, electrochemistry-ions in solutions, electrochemical cells, electrochemical rate processes, surface and colloid chemistry and catalysis.
Note: Must be taken concurrently with CHEM 347 when registered for the first time.

CHEM 346 Quantum Theory and Spectroscopy (4+1+0) 4 ECTS 6
(Kuvantum Teorisi ve Spektroskopi) 
The Schrödinger equation; linear and rotational motion; the properties of operators; techniques of approximation; atomic spectra and structure; molecular structure; molecular rotational, vibrational and electronic transitions.

CHEM 347 Physical Chemistry Laboratory (1+0+3) 2 ECTS 4          
(Fizikokimya Laboratuvarı)
Practicals to determine solution properties such as: surface effects, reaction equilibrium constants, phase equilibria, conducting behavior. Additional gas experiments.

CHEM 353 Introduction to Physical Chemistry  (4+1+0) 4 ECTS 6             
(Fiziksel Kimyaya Giriş)
Properties of ideal and real gases, first law of thermodynamics, basic concepts of thermochemistry. Second law of thermodynamics, direction of spontaneous change and entropy concept. Simple mixtures, thermodynamic description of mixtures, properties of solutions. Rates of chemical reactions; empirical chemical kinetics and rate laws. Equilibrium electrochemistry, electrochemical cells.  
Prerequisites: CHEM 101, CHEM 102, MATH 201, PHYS 130/PHYS 102.

CHEM 371 Textile Chemistry (3+0+0) 3 ECTS 6
(Tekstil Kimyası) 
Physical and chemical structures and properties of fibers used in the textile industry; preparatory processes, chemistry of the processes prior to dyeing, surface active agents, bleaching agents, chemicals used for scouring and their interactions with the fiber polymers; classification of dyes, chemical nature and properties of each dye class; theory and methods of dyeing; the relationship between chemical constitution and color; spectrum and color specification, match prediction, numerical expression of color difference, CIE chromaticity chart.
Prerequisite: CHEM 213 or CHEM 241.

CHEM 400 Chemistry Internship (0+2+0) 0 ECTS 9
(Kimya Stajı) 
A minimum of 60 days chemistry internship within the scope determined by the department of chemistry.
Prerequisite: Consent of the instructor.

CHEM 401 Chemistry Seminar (1+0+0) 1 ECTS 2
(Kimya Semineri) 
A seminar given by students in various fields of chemistry. A literature survey is made, the necessary audio visual aids are prepared and a well-organized coherent talk on the chosen subject is given.
Prerequisite: Senior standing.

CHEM 410 Forensic Chemistry (3+0+0) 3 ECTS 6
(Adli Kimya) 
Historical background and crime laboratory units. Physical evidence, its types and analyses: hair analysis, fiber analysis, trace element analysis for evidence. Drugs of abuse: types and identification; forensic toxicology; DNA as forensic evidence.

CHEM 411 Food Chemistry (3+0+0) 3 ECTS 6
(Gıda Kimyası) 
Chemistry of digestion, structure of foodstuffs, lipids, carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, energy cycle, inorganic salts, acid-base balance; physiological malfunctions due to improper diet, methods of testing and analyzing and preserving food stuffs.
Prerequisites: CHEM 214 or CHEM 241.
 

CHEM 412 Introduction to Nanochemistry (3+0+0) 3 ECTS 6
(Nanokimyaya Giris)
An introduction to the role of chemistry in nanoscience and nanotechnology: Bottom-up construction of nanomaterials using molecular interactions, surface properties, superhydrophobic and superhydrophilic surfaces, stimuli responsive surfaces and materials, synthesis of block copolymers, microphase separation of polymers and their use in nano fabrications, nanoparticles and polymer-nanoparticle composites.
Prerequisite: Consent of the instructor.

CHEM 413 Medicinal Chemistry (3+0+0) 3 ECTS 6
(Medisinal Kimya)
An introduction to medicinal chemistry: Principles of pharmacokinetics, drug action at enzymes, drug action at receptors, metabolism, drug-drug interactions, prodrugs, drug delivery systems, cancer, central nervous system.
Prerequisite: Consent of the instructor.

CHEM 417 Polymer Chemistry Laboratory (2+0+2) 3 ECTS 6
(Polimer Kimyası Laboratuvarı)
Experimental study of methods of polymer synthesis e.g. free radical, condensation and ring opening polymerizations.  Characterization of polymers using nuclear magnetic resonance, infrared spectroscopy, dilute solution viscometry, differential scanning calorimetry, gel permeation chromatography and thermal gravimetric analysis.
Prerequisite: CHEM 213 or consent of the instructor.

CHEM 421 Computational Chemistry (2+0+2) 3 ECTS 6
(Hesaplamalı Kimya) 
The techniques and scope of computational chemistry. Introduction to molecular modeling. Methods for empirical and semiempirical calculations. Applications in current program packages.
Prerequisite: Consent of the instructor.

CHEM 422 Photochemistry (3+0+0) 3 ECTS 6
(Fotokimya) 
Electronically excited states. Photophysical processes. Physical deactivation and chemical reactions. Photochemical reactions classified by chromophore type. Experimental and computational techniques.

CHEM 434 Organic Reaction Mechanisms (3+1+0) 3 ECTS 6
(Organik Reaksiyon Mekanizmaları)
The mechanistic aspect of organic reactions covered with a balanced presentation of theoretical and experimental data emphasizing the relationship between structure and reactivity.
Prerequisite: CHEM 316.

CHEM 435 Introduction to Polymer Science and Technology (3+0+0) 3 ECTS 6
(Polimer Bilimi ve Teknolojisine Giriş)
Terms and concepts of addition, condensation and ring opening polymerization, synthesis of industrially important polymers, relationship between physical properties and molecular structure, molding, extrusion, injection, drawing and fiber forming operations used in polymer chemistry as well as additives that improve the properties of plastics.
Prerequisite: CHEM 214 or CHEM 241.

CHEM 447 Statistical Thermodynamics and Chemical Kinetics (4+1+0) 4 ECTS 6
(istatiksel Termodinamik ve Kimyasal Kinetik) 
Physicochemical description of gases, PVT-behavior of pure substances, critical phenomena, kinetic theory of the perfect and imperfect gases, molecular velocity distributions, interatomic interaction and intermolecular forces, molecular energies and molecular spectra, partition functions, the absorption and emission of light, the absorption of radiation by matter, chemical dynamics and kinetics, transport properties.
Prerequisites: CHEM 102, MATH 201, PHYS 130/PHYS 102.

CHEM 453 Introduction to Chemical Kinetics (3+0+0) 3 ECTS 6
(Kimyasal Kinetiğe Giriş)
Introduction of basic descriptive kinetics, reaction mechanism rate laws, the measurement of reaction rates, the determination of reaction orders, elementary gas phase reactions, bimolecular and unimolecular gas reactions, free radicals and their sources, disproportionation and combination reactions, elementary reactions in solution, ionic reaction mechanism, the primary salt effect, the linear energy relationship, chain reactions.
Prerequisite: CHEM 447.

CHEM 456 Electrochemistry (3+0+0) 3 ECTS 6
(Elektrokimya)
Electrolytic conductance, electrolytic dissociation, ionic atmosphere transport number, activity of electrolytes and ions. Debye-Hückel theory, equilibria in electrolytes, E.M.F., reversible cells and electrodes, concentration, cells, junction potential, electrochemical cells, cell potential, free energy of ions, single electrode potential, E.M.F. and equilibrium constant, potentiometric titration, redox indicators, acids and bases, dissociation constants, pH and its determination, neutralization and hydrolysis, buffer solutions, dipolar ions.
Prerequisite: CHEM 345 or consent of the instructor.

CHEM 457 General Biochemistry (3+0+3) 4 ECTS 6
(Genel Biyokimya)
The chemistry and functions of the constituents of living cells covering carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, enzymatic catalysis, metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, lipids and nucleic acids with special attention given to interrelationships in metabolic rates of these important constituents of living cells. Three hours of laboratory per week.
Prerequisites: CHEM 214 or CHEM 241.

CHEM 471 Environmental Chemistry (3+0+0) 3 ECTS 6
(Çevre Kimyası) 
Nature, ecological cycles, classification of toxic substances their distribution and effects on the environment and human health. Methods of qualitative and quantitative analysis, means of detection and protection from toxic substances.
Prerequisite: Consent of the instructor.

CHEM 473 Research Techniques in Chemistry I  (1+0+5) 3 ECTS 12
(Kimyada Araştırma Teknikleri I) 
Laboratory or literature research on a subject chosen in conjunction with a faculty member; a written final report is required.
Prerequisite: Consent of the instructor.

CHEM 474 Research Techniques in Chemistry II (1+0+5) 3 ECTS 12
(Kimyada Araştırma Teknikleri II)
Laboratory or literature research on a subject chosen in conjunction with a faculty member; a written final report is required.
Prerequisite: Consent of the instructor.

CHEM 475 Research Techniques in Chemistry III (1+0+5) 3 ECTS 12
(Kimyada Araştırma Teknikleri III)
Laboratory or literature research on a subject chosen in conjunction with a faculty member; a written final report.
Prerequisite: Consent of the instructor

CHEM 476 Applied Chemistry (3+0+0) 3 ECTS 6
(Uygulamalı Kimya)
A course designed to introduce students to the tasks of an industrial chemist. Case studies include quality control, product design, continuous instrumental analysis, laboratory design, industrial toxicology and safety etc. Examples will be chosen from petrochemical, dyeing, plastics, detergents, rubber and the pharmaceutical industries. Practical use of patents and international standards will be emphasized.
Prerequisite: Consent of the instructor.

CHEM 480-499 Special Topics in Chemistry (3+0+0) 3 ECTS 4
(Kimyada Özel Konular)
Study of special topics in chemistry not covered in other courses at Undergradute level.

SCI 102 Science II (3+0+0) 3 ECTS 6
(Fen II)
Fundamentals of physical, life and earth sciences. Sociocultural, economic and environmental impact of human civilization from a global perspective. Science and technology in current affairs.

STS 301 Archaeometry I (3+0+0) 3 ECTS 5
(Arkeometri I) 
A brief introduction to human and natural history. Archaeological materials and technologies description and working of natural archaeological resources and materials (obsidian flint, native metals, marble pigments), organic materials (wood, amber, ivory, bone), pyrotechnology and extracted, compounded and constructed archaeological materials (pottery, glass, metals, alloys, glaze), ancient technologies, decay and restoration.

STS 302 Archaeometry II (3+0+0) 3 ECTS 4
(Arkeometri II) 
Application of basic sciences in archaeology, prospecting, analysis of archaeological material by chemical and physical methods, source analysis and ancient trade patterns, dating of archaeological materials.