Chemistry, Biology & Health Sciences

In the Department of Chemistry, Biology, and Health Sciences, students not only delve into the very foundation of life itself but also learn in-depth knowledge to solve the prominent challenges of modern society, including environments, sustainability, human health, to name a few. 

/_binaries/photos/academics/academic_dep/51637700782_7572850b39_k.jpgBoth chemistry and biology are key components of the health sciences program.

The American Chemical Society - accredited B.S. degree in Chemistry has a foundation in mathematics and physics, with rigorous training in five major sub-disciplines: Analytical, Biochemistry, Inorganic, Organic, and Physical Chemistry. Extensive laboratory experience, exciting coursework, and opportunities of undergraduate research help students develop the technical skills required to innovate in their field. Chemistry Program offers two Specializations: Biochemistry Specialization is designed for chemistry majors interested in the application of chemistry concepts to biological systems; Green Chemistry Specialization offers in-depth knowledge to chemistry majors who are interested in a career related to green and sustainable technologies.

The B.S. degree in Biology offers rigorously trained in Biological Sciences, including microbiology, genetics, cell and molecular biology, and ecology.  Extensive laboratory experience, exciting coursework, and opportunities of undergraduate research help students develop the technical skills required to innovate in their field. Biology Program offers two Specializations: Molecular Biology Specialization is designed for the biology major interested in understanding biological system at the molecular and cellular level for health, medicine, pre-medical and biochemistry/molecular biology; Environmental Biological Sciences offers in-depth knowledge to biology majors who are interested in using biology and biotechnology to solve the environmental and sustainability challenges of the society. 

The B.S. degree in Pre-Professional Health Sciences prepares students interested in a career in healthcare for admission into a variety of graduate and professional programs including medical and dental schools, physical and occupational therapy programs, physician assistant, chiropractic, optometry, and radiography programs. This flexible science degree requires core courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and math, allows multidisciplinary electives and support courses from other areas such as psychology and humanities, and tailors the curriculum to specific healthcare career interests of the students.

Meet Our Faculty

Activities and Organizations

 

A seminar series is in development; individuals from other departments or interested parties from the general public are welcome to attend.

We encourage the students in our department to be active in the American Chemical Society (ACS) student chapter, Student Biological Professional Society, Future Health Science Professionals, as well as join other campus organizations and activities.

ACS logo

The American Chemical Society (ACS)
The American Chemical Society is a self-governed individual membership organization that consists of more than 163,000 members at all degree levels and in all fields of chemistry.

The organization provides a broad range of opportunities for peer interaction, career development, community service, and leadership skills regardless of professional or scientific interest.

The purpose of ACS is to meet the needs of its members, foster scientific advancement, and promote the public understanding of chemistry.

There are many benefits, technical and nontechnical, to joining ACS. These include reduced fees to national and regional meetings, access to ACS journals and chemical abstracts, continuing education opportunities, insurance programs, travel programs, auto rental discounts, and much more.

The South Dakota Mines Student Affiliates Chapter at South Dakota Mines is actively involved in many activities such as National Chemistry Week, chemistry magic shows, and other social events. 

 

Logo - CABS, Alpha Chi SigmaBeta Phi Chapter of Alpha Chi Sigma


South Dakota Mines is home to the Beta Phi Chapter of Alpha Chi Sigma, the national's oldest professional chemical fraternity. Membership is open to students from a variety of academic disciplines, including metallurgical engineering, geology, geological engineering, chemistry, chemical engineering, mining engineering and management, environmental engineering, pre-health, and atmospheric sciences.  Find out more at the Beta Phi Chapter website.

Contact Us

Department of Chemistry, Biology, and Health Sciences

For general information:

For information about the undergraduate programs:

For information about graduate programs:

South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
501 East Saint Joseph Street
Rapid City, SD  57701

Amber Seidel
Program Assistant I
CBEC 2205,  (605) 394-1233
 Amber.Seidel@sdsmt.edu

Zhengtao Zhu
Department Head/ Professor
CBEC 2206, (605) 394-2447
CBHS@sdsmt.edu

 

Chemistry:
Zhengtao Zhu
Department Head/ Professor
CBEC 2206, (605) 394-2447
CBHS@sdsmt.edu

Biology / Pre-Professional Health Sciences: 
Sara Elizabeth Racz
Biology Program Coordinator
CBEC 3316, (605) 394-2260
CBHS@sdsmt.edu

Chemical and Biological Sciences MS/PhD:

Rajesh K. Sani 
Graduate Program Coordinator
CBEC 2211, (605) 394-1240
Rajesh.Sani@sdsmt.edu