Chemistry

Innovating Through Chemistry

Schreiner University offers courses leading to a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree and a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree with a major in Chemistry. The Chemistry program is rooted in the liberal arts tradition, emphasizing Chemistry as a dynamic and evolving field of study. Students are encouraged to understand and contribute to this dynamic body of knowledge, not merely master current content. The program’s major goals include producing new knowledge and using concepts to enhance understanding.

Students with a BA degree in Chemistry, supplemented with additional coursework in biology, will meet all the requirements for medical, dental, veterinary, and pharmacy schools. Those wishing to pursue graduate studies in chemistry are encouraged to follow the BS degree plan. The Chemistry program includes diverse laboratory techniques essential for further investigations in education or industry.

Degree Plans Offered:

BA Chemistry – Integrative Track

  • Focus: Chemistry
  • Core Curriculum: 33 hours
  • Lower Level Courses (2000 or below): 24-30 hours in Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics
  • Upper-Level Chemistry: 28 hours
  • Upper-Level Electives: 6 hours (options include Quantum Mechanics or Biochemistry)
  • Electives: 29-35 hours (allowing for a minor in another subject)

BA Chemistry – Biochemistry Track

  • Focus: Interaction of Biology and Chemistry
  • Core Curriculum: 33 hours
  • Lower Level Courses (2000 or below): 23-29 hours in Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics
  • Upper-Level Chemistry/Biology: 24 hours (including Biochemistry)
  • Upper-Level Electives: 6 hours (options include Instrumental Analysis, Thermodynamics, Quantum Mechanics, or Inorganic Chemistry)
  • Electives: 34-40 hours (allowing for a minor in another subject)

BS Chemistry – Integrative Track

  • Focus: Chemistry
  • Core Curriculum: 33 hours
  • Lower Level Courses (2000 or below): 32-38 hours in Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics
  • Upper-Level Chemistry: 30 hours
  • Electives: 19-25 hours (allowing exploration of various subjects or a specific subject)

BS Chemistry – Biochemistry Track

  • Focus: Interaction of Biology and Chemistry
  • Core Curriculum: 33 hours
  • Lower Level Courses (2000 or below): 35-41 hours in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics
  • Upper-Level Biology/Chemistry: 26 hours (including Biochemistry)
  • Upper-Level Electives: 4 hours (options include Cellular or Molecular Biology)
  • Electives: 20-26 hours (allowing exploration of various subjects or a specific subject)

These degree tracks are designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in Chemistry, preparing them for various professional and academic pursuits.

Chemistry Faculty Members

Hi, my name is Kiley Miller. I am a former Schreiner University student (Class of 2000). I have been back on campus since 2006 with an opportunity to make an impact of the live of Schreiner University students, the same way that my faculty members here impacted me. I teach a variety of Chemistry courses from General Chemistry lecture and lab to upper-level Chemistry courses (Quantitative Analysis, Instrumental Analysis, Biochemistry 1/2, Intro to Chemical Research, and Internship/Senior Project in Chemistry). I am enthusiastic about the material because I think that the better, we understand
matter and the changes it undergoes (Chemistry), the better we will be at making decisions about our own nutrition, health, environment, as well as the informing those around us to make more informed decisions about their lives. My research interests revolve around Environmental Analysis. From the chemical characterization of the invasive Chinaberry tree fruit to the evaluation of the degradation of plastics used for fish habitats. I am actively involved in coaching, refereeing, and playing world football at our local club Hill Country United.

PhD in Bioengineering – Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 2005

MA in Analytical Chemistry – University of Texas at Austin, 2002

BS in Chemistry – Schreiner University, 2000

10 years of industrial experience in the pharmaceutical and dyestuff industry. Teaching experience: 20 years total- 15 years at Schreiner University teaching General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Inorganic Chemistry. Teaching Awards: Pinnacle Excellence in Teaching, Margaret Hosler Award for Excellence in Teaching. Research interests: Synthesis of small biologically active compounds. Outside interests: swimming, biking, pets including dogs, chickens, cats, and turtles. Family: Husband, Greg and Daughter, Nicole

PhD Organic Chemistry, Iowa State University

BSc Chemistry, McNeese State University, Summa Cum Laude

Hi, my name is Vanessa Espinoza, and I’m excited to be a part of the Schreiner Chemistry faculty. I earned my B.S. in Chemistry and Physics from Texas Lutheran University and then attended Rice University in Houston, where I earned my Ph.D. in Chemistry. While at Rice, I taught general chemistry and obtained an additional teaching certificate focused on higher education.

I have always been passionate about teaching chemistry because there is power in knowledge. Whether or not you want to be a science major, I am convinced that taking chemistry classes will encourage you to think critically and look at the world differently. It’s my mission to help you have a positive experience with a subject that is not everyone’s favorite. I also aim to ensure that science is an inclusive space because it takes many minds with different backgrounds to move technology forward.

My research interests broadly encompass analyzing nanomaterials through a variety of spectroscopic techniques. More specifically, my research focuses on the physical sorting and tailoring of single-wall carbon nanotubes. Outside the lab and classroom, I enjoy spending time with my family, playing soccer, and traveling.

My name is Victor Salinas, and I am a Schreiner alumnus (Class of 2012). After receiving a B.S. in Biology from Schreiner University, I earned an M.S. in Molecular Biology from Lehigh University in 2018. I’m thrilled to return to the Schreiner campus to share my passion for science through my role as instructor for General Chemistry lab. In my previous positions as classroom teacher and curriculum developer, as well as in my current positions as the K-12 science coordinator for Boerne ISD and Schreiner faculty, my goal has always been to make science engaging and accessible to all students. My Schreiner professors were instrumental in my development as a scientist and educator, and I’m thankful to have the opportunity to have an impact on the learning and Schreiner experience of this generation of students. Outside of work, most of my time is spent with my wife and two children, partaking in community theater productions and other community events.

Contact

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Kiley Miller
Kiley Miller, PhD
Professor of Chemistry
Chemistry
Moody Science Building
830-792-7247
KPMiller@schreiner.edu
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