bachelor of science in chemistry student...dr vincent c c ko inorganic and organometallic chemistry,...

Student Handbook

2019-2020

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College of Science理學院

Department of Chemistry化學系

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry理學士(化學)

For further information, please contact:

Department of Chemistry

B6708, 6/F, Yeung Kin Man Academic Building (YEUNG)

City University of Hong Kong

Tat Chee Avenue

Kowloon

Hong Kong

Tel : (852) 3442 7404

Fax : (852) 3442 0522

E-mail : [email protected]

Website : http://www.cityu.edu.hk/chem

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.cityu.edu.hk/chem

CONTENTS

Page

Introduction 1

The Department of Chemistry 1

Members of Staff 3

Areas of Expertise

7

BSc in Chemistry

I. BSc Major Programme Management Team 11

II. Mode of Attendance and Duration

11

III. Aims

11

IV. Specific Major Intended Learning Outcomes

12

V. Structure and Assessment of Programme

13

VI. Rules on Academic Honesty

22

VII. Minimum Passing Requirement

22

VIII. Important Notes for Course Registration

22

IX. Courses and Respective Course Leaders

23

X. Servicing Courses and Respective Course Leaders

27

XI. Major Programme Management and Staff-Student Communication

28

XII. Course Description 31

XIII. Servicing Course Description 63

Appendix I : Major 1 – 4

Appendix II : Recommended Study Plan

September 2019

1

INTRODUCTION

This Handbook contains useful information for students enrolled in Bachelor of Science in

Chemistry. Students are advised to familiarize themselves with this Handbook so as to obtain a

general overview of the Department and its teaching courses. It is, however, intended to be read

in conjunction with other official information posted by the Academic Regulations and Records

Office, such as the CityU Academic Regulations and the CityU Academic Calendar which are

available on the website of the Academic Regulations and Records Office.

THE DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY

The Department of Chemistry offers studies and research in fundamental and applied aspects

of chemistry, life, molecular and environmental sciences to about 360 undergraduate and 110

postgraduate students. The Department consists of 34 academic staff, 3 associated academic

staff and about 80 research staff members. The study programmes are designed to help students

understand important scientific issues, current technologies and future challenges in light of

local, regional and global needs following the outcomes-based teaching and learning framework.

An interdisciplinary approach is adopted and an emphasis is placed on the integration of theory

with practical classes via hands-on experience. The teaching and research laboratories provide a

stimulating environment to do experimental work utilizing state-of-the-art equipment and

instruments. Relevant industrial experience in local and international companies and research

institutions is included as appropriate. Overseas field trips and exchange studies complement the

core study programmes. Students are also encouraged to attend departmental seminars by well-

known visiting scientists. The Department also co-supervises about 20 PhD students with the

University of Science and Technology, China in our Advanced Laboratory of Environmental

Research and Technology in Suzhou.

The Department offers one full-time undergraduate major, namely Chemistry. The Chemistry

major offers an in-depth study in analytical chemistry and environmental chemistry.

Professional recognition of this major is being pursued from both local and overseas

professional institutions.

The Department strongly fosters interdisciplinary research and development activities.

Acquisitions of equipment highlighted the multidisciplinary nature of experimental and

theoretical research. Examples include the installation of an atomic force microscope coupled to

an optical microscope, which can be used to examine the surface structures of cells and

organisms at the nano scale. The four confocal and compound microscopes are unique in the

region as they are specifically fitted with lasers and filters for detecting the emission ranging

from the fluorescent to the near infrared spectrum of novel chemicals introduced inside cells and

organisms. A state-of-the-art proteomics and metabolomics facility, including a robotic system

for gel cutting is in operation. This user-friendly facility provides support and training on gel

and chromatography based analyses of proteins and metabolites associated with biological and

toxicological interactions. A laser laboratory offers a wide variety of experimental facilities for

the spectroscopic studies of the reaction mechanisms, relaxation processes to excited state

dynamics of interest in photochemistry, photophysics and photobiology. This laboratory is

featured with a wavelength tunable Ti:Sapphire femtosecond laser coupled to the femtosecond

transient absorption spectrometer and a nanosecond flash photolysis system equipped with a

high power ns-pulsed Nd:YAG laser. Three pieces of equipment have been installed, namely a

genome sequencing system, a peptide synthesizer and a DNA/RNA synthesizer for peptides and

DNA/RNA research studies. Three NMRs of 300, 400 and 600 MHz are also set up for

2

undergraduate & postgraduate teaching and research applications in synthetic, pharmaceutical as

well as biomedical fields.

Staff expertise currently lies in environmental biology and chemistry, analytical chemistry,

green and synthetic chemistry, spectroscopy and catalysis, materials chemistry, computational

chemistry, cell biology, biosensing, microbiology and bioactive compounds. Current research of

the Department focuses on catalysis including catalyst design and synthesis, organic

electroluminescent devices, photo-responsive and luminescent chemosensing, proteomics and

metabolomics, nano-bio interfaces, and sustainable development in the marine ecosystem. Our

research is among the top in the latest Research Assessment Exercise conducted by the

University Grants Committee of Hong Kong in 2014. The review panels of the Research Grants

Council also highly commended our research activities during their site visit in June 2015. One

of the highlights of our research has been the leading role we have played in the State Key

Laboratory in Marine Pollution (SKLMP) and the Center of Super-Diamond and Advanced

Films (COSDAF).

The Department endeavours to develop close links with both the public and industrial sectors to

keep abreast of society needs. Many of the staff research projects and undergraduate /

postgraduate research projects are carried out in collaboration with industry partners and

government bodies as well as with other local and overseas universities.

With the recruitment of new academic staff members in strategic areas of chemistry discipline,

the Department is ready to take up the challenges and conduct cutting edge research in new

strategic areas.

3

MEMBERS OF STAFF

Academic Staff Name Tel. No. E-mail (…@cityu.edu.hk)

Head and

Chair Professor

Director of COSDAF

Prof C S LEE

PhD (HKU)

3442-7826 chem.head

Associate Head and

Associate Professor

Dr K C LAU

PhD (UCDavis)

3442-6849 kaichung

Chair Professor and

Provost

Prof Alex K Y JEN

PhD (Pennsylvania)

3442-8080 alexjen

Chair Professor and

Chief-of-Staff

Prof Paul K S LAM, SBS, JP

PhD (Sheffield)

3442-7681/

3442-6828

bhpksl

Associate Dean

(Education) & Professor

Prof Michael H W LAM

PhD (HK)

3442-7329 bhmhwlam

Visiting Distinguished

Professor and

Senior Fellow of IAS

Prof Jean-Marie LEHN

Nobel Laureate in Chemistry

Honorary Professor

Prof Deqing ZHANG

Chair Professors Prof Y CHI

PhD (Illinois)

3442-9242 yunchi

Prof István T HORVÁTH

DSc (Hung Acad Sci),

PhD (U Pannonia)

3442-7878 istvan.t.horvath

Prof T C LAU

PhD (HK)

3442-7811 bhtclau

Prof Nora F Y TAM, BBS, JP

PhD (York, UK), FIBiol, CBiol,

MCIWEM

3442-7793

bhntam

Herman Hu Chair

Professor of

Nanomaterials

Prof H ZHANG

PhD (Peking)

3442-4102 hua.zhang

Professors Prof Michael C W CHAN

PhD (Durham)

3442-9678 mcwchan

Prof H L KWONG

PhD (MIT)

3442-7304 bhhoik

4

Prof Kenneth K W LO

PhD (HK)

3442-7231 bhkenlo

Prof Z XU

PhD (Cornell)

3442-4679 zhengtao

Associate Professors Dr Doris W T AU

PhD (HK), Cbiol, MIBiol

3442-9710 bhdwtau

Dr S G CHEUNG

PhD (HK)

3442-7749 bhsgche

Dr Richard Y H CHEUNG

PhD (UMIST)

3442-9514 bhricche

Dr H HIRAO

PhD (Tokyo)

3442-7096 hhirao

Dr Vincent C C KO

PhD (HK)

3442-6958 vinccko

Dr Richard Y C KONG

PhD (Monash)

3442-7794 bhrkong

Dr Y W LAM

PhD (HK)

3442-6347 yunwlam

Dr Peggy P K LO

PhD (McGill)

3442-7840 peggylo

Dr J D LUO

PhD (WHU)

3442-7720 jingdluo

Dr Andy C K SIU

PhD (CUHK)

3442-2272 chiksiu

Dr H Y SUN

PhD (Singapore)

3442-9537 hongysun

Dr Alex C Y WONG

PhD (HK)

3442-6831 acywong

Dr G Y ZHU

PhD (Pittsburgh)

3442-6857 guangzhu

5

Assistant Professors Dr Kit C K KWOK

PhD (Penn State)

3442-6858 ckkwok42

Dr J H LEE

PhD (SNU)

3442-7822 junghlee

Dr T H LY

PhD (Sungkyunkwan)

3442-9329 thuchly

Dr Y MATSUDA

PhD (Tokyo)

3442-7839 ymatsuda

Dr Will Y K PENG

PhD (Oxford)

3442-7824 ykpeng

Dr R Q YE

PhD (Rice)

3442-9023 ruquanye

Dr Z L ZHU

PhD (HKUST)

3442-4559 zonglzhu

Visiting Assistant

Professor

Dr J L CHEN

PhD (HK)

3442-7747 jiachen

6

Administrative Staff

Executive Officer Is Ms Natalie P S CHAN

Miss Grace C M NG

3442-7402

3442-8411

nat.chan

songrace

Clerical Officer I Miss Dora P K YIM

3442-7404

dora.yim

Clerical Officer IIs Ms Meiling M L LAM

Miss Alison Y P NG

Miss Sora H T CHEUNG

3442-7833

3442-7095

3442-9028

meiling

yimpng

htcheun

Technical Staff

Scientific Officers Dr Karen T W NG 3442-4090 tszwaing

Dr M K TSE

3442-2435 manktse

Chief Technical Officer

Ms Helen K Y NG

3442-4080

bhhelen

Senior Technical Officer Mr Benz C P CHAN

3442-4065

bhbccp

Technical Officers Mr H H CHAN

Mr K W CHAU

Mr Michael W L CHIANG

Miss Amy M Y CHONG

Mr John H Y LAI

Mr K F LAM

Mr Kenneth K K LAU

Mr Ivan K K LO

Dr Ken S M YIU

3442-4070

3442-7107

3442-2775

3442-4089

3442-4068

3442-7007

3442-4082

3442-7115

3442-6187

bhhhc

kawchau

bhchiang

bhachong

bhjlhy

bhkflam

bhkenlau

ivan.lo

kensmyiu

7

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

Head Expertise

Prof C S LEE

Biomedical Materials, Nanoscience and Nanotechnology,

Organic Light-Emitting Devices (OLEDs), Organic

Optoelectronics, Surface Science of Organic

Semiconductors and Nanomaterials

Associate Head

Dr K C LAU Computational Thermochemistry, ab initio Molecular

Orbital Studies on the Structures, Energetics, and

Reactivities of Chemical Species, Theoretical Aspects of

Chemical Bondings, Reaction Mechanisms, Potential

Energy Surfaces and Related Properties

Staff

Dr Doris W T AU

Molecular and Cellular Toxicology, Biomarker

Development, Medaka Models, Transgenerational

Inheritance, Epigenetics, Environment and Human Health

Prof Michael C W CHAN

Inorganic, Organometallic and Supramolecular Chemistry;

Catalysis (design of novel catalysts for polymerization

reactions and ‘weak attractive ligand–polymer

interactions’); Shape-persistent Luminescent Molecular

Frameworks and Polymeric Assemblies

Dr S G CHEUNG

Intertidal Ecology, Marine Conservation, Microplastic

Pollution, Ecology and Conservation of Horseshoe Crabs

Dr Richard Y H CHEUNG

Environmental Pollution and Toxicology, Environmental

Monitoring and Auditing, Environmental Control and

Waste Management, Environment Impact Assessment, Soil

and Terrestrial Plant Ecology

Prof Y CHI

Organometallic Material Chemistry, Organic and

Transition-Metal Based Light Emitting Materials for

OLEDs, Carrier Transporting Materials for Photovoltaics

Dr H HIRAO Computational Chemistry, Homogeneous/Heterogeneous

Catalysis, Bioinorganic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry,

Porous Materials

Prof István T HORVÁTH

Catalysis, Green Chemistry, Organometallic Chemistry,

Fluorous Chemistry, In Situ IR and NMR Spectroscopy,

Biomass Conversion, Management of R&D, Sustainability

8

Prof Alex K Y JEN Utilizing Molecular, Polymeric, and Biomacromolecular

Self-assembly to create ordered arrangement of Organic

and Inorganic Functional Materials for Photonics, Opto-

electronics, Nanomedicine, and Nanotechnology.

Employing the “Molecular Engineering” approach to tailor

size, shape, sequence, and functionality of Organic/Hybrid

Functional Materials and explore their applications.

Organic and hybrid perovskite solar cells and light-

emitting diodes, electro-optic materials.

Dr Vincent C C KO Inorganic and Organometallic Chemistry, Photocatalysis,

Photochemistry; Photoswitching and Photochromic

Material

Dr Richard Y C KONG

Gene Expression and Control Mechanisms, Epigenetics,

Molecular Toxicology, DNA-Based Diagnostics

Dr Kit C K KWOK Chemical Biology, RNA Biology, Nucleic Acids Structure,

G-Quadruplex, Transcriptomics, Epigenetics, Gene

Regulation

Prof H L KWONG

Organic and Inorganic Chemistry, Asymmetric Synthesis

and Catalysis, Reaction Mechanisms

Prof Michael H W LAM

Development of Novel Molecular, Nano- and Micro-Scale

Materials for In Vitro and In Vivo Imaging, and

Environmental Analytical and Biomedical Applications;

In Vitro and In Vivo Metabolomic Studies of Various

Environmental Contaminations

Prof Paul K S LAM

Ecology, Environmental Measurement and Analysis,

Ecotoxicology, Environmental Toxicology and Risk

Assessment

Dr Y W LAM Live Cell Imaging, Proteomics, Functional Organization of

Mammalian Cell Nucleus, Biomedical Engineering,

Chemical Biology

Prof T C LAU Photocatalytic Water Splitting and carbon dioxide

reduction, Metal-catalyzed Organic Transformations

Synthesis and Reactivity of Transition Metal Complexes,

Kinetics and Mechanisms of Inorganic Redox Reactions

Dr J H LEE Plasmonics, Nanomaterials Science, Nanochemistry,

Nano-biosensor and Bioimaging, Self-assembly of

Nanoparticles

9

Prof Kenneth K W LO

Analytical, Inorganic and Organometallic Chemistry,

Photophysics and Photochemistry, Bioconjugation,

Biomolecular and Cellular Probes, and Photocytotoxic

Reagents

Dr Peggy P K LO

Chemical Biology, DNA Chemistry, Synthetic Chemistry,

Biomimetics, Biomolecular Sensing, Bioimaging

Dr J D LUO Organic Materials Chemistry, Organic Nonlinear Optics,

Polymer Chemistry, Surface Chemistry, Organic

Semiconductors, Photovoltaics, and Materials/Devices

toward printable and flexible electronics and photonics

Dr T H LY

Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, Materials Science, 2D-

materials (Graphene, Transition Metal Dichalcogenides,

etc), Solar Cells

Dr Y MATSUDA Bioorganic Chemistry, Natural Products Chemistry and

Biosynthesis, Enzymatic Chemistry

Dr Will Y K PENG Material Surface Chemistry for the Design of

Hetero(Photo) Nanocatalysts and MRI Nanocontrast

Agents

Dr Andy C K SIU Computational Chemistry, Density Functional Theory

Molecular Dynamics Studies on the Mechanisms of

Chemical Reactions at Finite Temperatures, Dissociation

Chemistry of Biomolecular Ions and Nano-sized Particles

in the Gas Phase

Dr H Y SUN

Chemical Biology, Fluorescent Probes, Bioimaging,

Microarray Screening, Peptides, Biomaterials; Target

Identification

Prof Nora F Y TAM

Biological Treatment of Wastes and Wastewater,

Mangrove and Wetland Ecology and Conservation,

Pollution Control, Phytoremediation and Bioremediation

Dr Alex C Y WONG Synthesis and Application of Nano Materials, Inorganic

and Organometallic Chemistry, Spectroscopy

Prof Z XU Functional Porous Coordination Networks (MOFs) and

Polymer Frameworks, Organic-Inorganic Semiconductors

for High Performance and Low-cost Processing, Synthetic

Organic Chemistry for Development of Solid State

Materials

10

Dr R Q YE Material Science, Sustainable Energy Conversions,

Electrification, Laser-assisted Materials, Manufacturing,

Fluorescent Nanomaterials

Prof H ZHANG Materials Chemistry, Nanoscience and Nanotechnology,

especially preparation of two-dimensional (2D)

nanomaterials for applications in clean energy, (opto-)

electronic devices, nano- and biosensors, catalysis, and

water remediation.

Dr G Y ZHU

Anticancer Drug Development; Drug Mechanism and

Target Validation; Drug Delivery; Photodynamic Therapy;

Chemical Biology

Dr Z L ZHU

Materials Chemistry and Physical Chemistry, Material

Design and Synthesis, their physical properties and device

performance for optoelectronics application

11

I. BSC MAJOR PROGRAMME MANAGEMENT TEAM

Major Leader Prof Kenneth Lo (Chairperson)

Deputy Major Leader Dr K C Lau

Subject Leader Prof Kenneth Lo

First Year Tutor Dr Alex Wong

Second Year Tutor Dr Hongyan Sun

Third Year Tutor Dr Peggy Lo

Fourth Year Tutor Dr Andy Siu

Admission Tutor Dr K C Lau

Deputy Admission Tutor Dr Y W Lam

Project Coordinator Dr G Y Zhu

Timetabling Officer Dr K C Lau

II. MODE OF ATTENDANCE AND DURATION

Normally 4 years full-time (FT)

for Advanced Standing I : 3 years

for Advanced Standing II : 2 years

III. AIMS

The aims of the degree programme in the Department of Chemistry are to train and

produce graduates who are suitably educated to pursue a developing career in one or

more of the following areas: analytical chemistry, environmental chemistry, inorganic

chemistry, organic chemistry and physical chemistry and to meet local and regional

requirements in the industrial, commercial, government or education sectors.

12

IV. SPECIFIC MAJOR INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES

On completion of the major, Chemistry graduates will be able to:

Describe the general chemical principles appropriate to the study of chemistry.

Explain the important aspects of chemical terminology, nomenclature, convention

and units.

Describe the structure and properties of atoms, ions, molecules and materials.

Apply the principles of thermodynamics and kinetics to chemistry.

Apply the principles and procedures used in chemical analysis and

characterization.

Competently perform a wide range of laboratory and technical procedures in

chemistry.

Handle chemicals in a professional manner, through knowledge and adherence to

chemical safety legislation.

Operate laboratory procedures in synthetic and analytical chemistry.

Evaluate experimental data through testing hypotheses, defining problems and

creating innovative and practical solutions.

Communicate and cooperate with other personnel and participate as an effective

team member.

Critically evaluate experiments in chemistry as reported in the literature and

synthesize information in a constructive manner.

Demonstrate the ability in oral and written presentations and recognize the

limitations inherent in hypotheses.

Develop strategies for creating, updating, maintaining and enhancing knowledge

in chemistry.

Identify, analyze and reflect upon the responsibilities of chemists by applying

chemical knowledge to society, commerce and the environment.

Apply knowledge of synthetic chemistry for the discovery and design of

compounds with new and interesting properties.

Apply the concepts and principles of chemical analysis to environmental,

industrial, biological and food sciences.

Apply chemical knowledge to address ethical and social issues in the work

environment.

13

V. STRUCTURE AND ASSESSMENT OF PROGRAMME (For Normative 4-year Degree)

Period of Study

The BSc programme is operated under the Credit Unit System. The major comprises 120-144

credit units to be undertaken normally within four academic years. Each academic year

comprises two 13-week semesters, Semester A and Semester B with an end of semester

examination. Each course offered in a major may require a student to attend between 2 and 8

hours of classes per week, either as lectures, tutorials and/or practicals.

Academic Structure

Please refer to the web-version of the “Academic Regulations” for guidelines and specific

academic regulations under the Credit Unit System. In summary, BSc degree programme is

composed of courses which can be classified as “Major Required Courses” or “Major Elective

Courses”. A list of required and elective courses is shown in Appendix I. Each major is made

up of four main components as detailed below:

For Chemistry Major

Normative

4-year Degree

Advanced

Standing I

Advanced

Standing II

Gateway Education Requirement 30 CU 21 CU 12 CU

University Requirements

1. GE English

2. Chinese Civilisation – History and Philosophy

6 CU

3 CU

6 CU

3 CU

3 CU Not a

compulsory

requirement Distributional Requirements

Area 1: Arts and Humanities

Area 2: Study of Societies, Social and Business

Organisations

Area 3: Science and Technology

12 CU (At least one

course from each

of the three

areas)

6 CU (From two

different areas)

3 CU

College/School-specified Courses^/* 9 CU^ 6 CU* 6 CU*

College Requirement 6 CU 0 CU (6 CU waived)

0 CU (6 CU waived)

Major Requirement

Required Courses

Courses that must be passed to complete a major

Elective Courses

Courses chosen from a defined set of courses

66 CU 57 CU 45 CU

Free Electives

Any courses which are not included in the above

three requirements

18 CU 12 CU 3 CU

Minimum Credit Units for Graduation 120 CU 90 CU 60 CU

14

^/* College/School-specified courses for fulfilling the Gateway Education requirement

Course

Code

Course Title Level Credit

Units

Remarks

^Normative 4-year Degree

MA1200/

MA1300

Calculus and Basic Linear Algebra I/

Enhanced Calculus and Linear Algebra I

B1 3

MA1201/

MA1301

Calculus and Basic Linear Algebra II/

Enhanced Calculus and Linear Algebra II

B1 3

CS1102/

CS1302

Introduction to Computer Studies/

Introduction to Computer Programming

B1 3

*Advanced Standing I

Any courses not within the Major Requirement

(including core courses and electives)

*Advanced Standing II (Senior-year Entry)

Any courses not within the Major Requirement

(including core courses and electives)

15

College Requirement

Course

Code


Units Remarks (e.g. College

Accreditation, or

Exemption requirements,

etc.)

Science (6 credit units)

Choose two from the following three subject areas:

Physics

PHY1201 General Physics I B1 3

Chemistry

BCH1100 Chemistry B1 3

Biology

BCH1200 Discovery in Biology B1 3

Note : HKDSE students admitted without high school Physics will be required to take PHY1200

Foundation Physics (a non-credit bearing course in fundamental Physics).

Maximum Credit Unit Limit Permitted under the 4-year Degree Structure

The maximum number of credit units permitted for a degree is as follows:

Normative 4-year Degree: 144 credit units

Advanced Standing I: 114 credit units

Advanced Standing II: 84 credit units

Students who have completed the maximum credit units permitted as mentioned above cannot

register for further courses in subsequent semesters/terms except for (a) those pursuing a double

major or double degree paying the extra credits exceeding the above maximum credit limit on a

self-financed basis; or (b) students who have been granted special permission to exceed the

maximum credit limit.

The credits earned from taking EL0200A (3 credit units) and/or EL0200B (3 credit units) and

CHIN1001 (3 credit units) will not be counted towards the minimum credit units required for

graduation and will not be included in the calculation of cumulative grade point average

(CGPA). However, they will be counted towards the maximum credit units permitted.

If the credit load exceeds the maximum credit limit (including degree/major requirements +

EL0200A, EL0200B and CHIN1001) for pursuing a minor, approval must be granted from the

Associate Provost (Academic Planning and Undergraduate Education) via Head and Dean on a

very exceptional basis.

16

Gateway Education Requirements

University Requirements (Required Courses) (9 credit units)

1. Gateway Education English Courses

The GE English consists of two academic English courses:

1.1 University English (3 credit units): the course focuses on more general aspects

of English rhetoric, composition, argumentation and critical reading and writing.

1.2 Discipline-specific English (3 credit units): the course focuses on more

discipline-specific aspects of English.

Students scoring above Level 4 in HKDSE English Language or Grade D in

HKALE AS-level Use of English will take two academic English courses:

- University English course: GE1401 University English

- Discipline-specific English course: GE2401 English for Science

Students scoring below Level 4 in HKDSE English Language or Grade D in

HKALE AS-level Use of English or students who do not possess an equivalent

qualification are required to successfully complete the English for Academic

Purposes (EAP) courses (EL0200A (3 credit units) and EL0200B (3 credit units))

offered by the English Language Centre (ELC) before they can advance to the GE

English courses. Students who have achieved a grade B or above in their overall

course results for EL0200A will be permitted to exit the programme at this point.

They will achieve 3 credit units and also be considered to have satisfied the pre-

requisite for entry to the GE English courses.

2. Chinese Civilisation – History and Philosophy (3 credit units)

The course GE1501 Chinese Civilisation – History and Philosophy helps students

explore both the past and present issues in Chinese history and philosophy and also

their self-identity in the modern world.

Students scoring below Level 4 in HKDSE Chinese Language, or below Grade D in HKALE AS-level Chinese Language and Culture will be required to successfully

complete a Chinese course (totaling 3 credit units) offered by the School of

Continuing and Professional Education (SCOPE) before they can advance to the GE

Chinese course.

For the most updated information of the GE Requirements, please visit the website of the

Office of Education Development and Gateway Education (EDGE):

http://www.cityu.edu.hk/edge/ge/ge_requirements_new.htm

Distributional Requirements (12 credit units)

Students are also required to take a minimum of 3 credit units from each of the three areas below:

Area 1: Arts and Humanities

Area 2: Study of Societies, Social and Business Organisations

Area 3: Science and Technology

http://www.cityu.edu.hk/edge/ge/ge_requirements_new.htm

17

College/School-specified Courses (9 credit units)

Students of Normative 4-year Degree are required to take College/School-specified courses for 9

credit units.

Students of Advanced Standing I and II are also required to take any courses not within the

Major Requirement (including core courses and electives) as College/School-specified courses

for 6 credit units.

College Requirement (6 credit units)

18

Study Load

According to the University regulation, 1 credit unit at CityU is earned by approximately

40-50 hours of student work over a semester, which include lectures, tutorials, laboratory classes

as well as private study (i.e. approximately 2 hours of private study for 1 hour of

lecture/tutorial).

Change of Home Major

Students may change their home major. To change their home major, students can login AIMS,

select “Change of Home Major” under “Study Plan” tab, to submit their change of home major

application. Changes of home major become effective only after at least one semester of study in

a prior major. Students wishing to change their home major should seek advice from the Major

Leader in advance.

For the most updated information, please visit the website of the Academic Regulations and

Records Office: http://www.cityu.edu.hk/arro.

Student Exchange Programme

The Department offers exchange programmes to students in each academic semester. For

details, please contact the Departmental General Office.

Assessment and Progression

Please refer to the web-version of the “Academic Regulations for Undergraduate Degrees” for

general guidelines and specific academic regulations. In particular, students should be aware

that the assessment of their academic work in the University has two aspects:

1. Students will receive “Grades” for the assessment of courses which will be used to calculate

Grade Point Average (GPA):

n

i

i

n

i

ii

U

UG

GPA

1

1

(Where: G is the grade point awarded and U the credit units earned for the ith course. The conversion between

Grade and Grade Point Awarded is shown on p.20.)

2. The classification of students’ awards will be based on a “Cumulative Grade Point Average

(CGPA)”.

Students’ overall performance are measured by two types of GPA, a Semester GPA (SGPA) and

a Cumulative GPA (CGPA) which will be calculated at the end of a semester. The difference of

SGPA and CGPA is that SGPA will only be calculated based on the courses registered in that

particular semester, while CGPA is calculated for all courses taken during enrolment for a

specific programme. CGPA will be used as the award criteria.

In the calculation of a student’s SGPA and CGPA, grades of P, I, IP, TR, Z, AU, X and WD are

not counted, while grades of F are counted. However, the ‘F’ grade will not be counted in

student’s CGPA if the ‘F’ grade is recovered by repeating the same course. Students should bear

in mind that some courses are only offered in alternate years. Hence, if they failed these courses,

they may not be able to repeat them in the following academic year.

http://www.cityu.edu.hk/arro

19

Under the Credit Unit System, the ‘D’ grade is equivalent to a grade point of only 1.0. ‘D’ is a

grade that shows a student has sufficient familiarity with the subject matter to enable the student

to progress without repeating the course. However, grade ‘D’ will pull down the average grade

and this can lead to serious problems. It is therefore advisable for students with a grade of ‘D’ to

repeat the course to improve their GPA. However, students should consider and decide carefully

as “fail” grade in the second attempt will stand according to the “Academic Regulations for

Undergraduate Degrees” of the University.

When a student’s SGPA or CGPA falls below 1.70, the student will be given a warning letter

issued by the Head of Department. Students may be advised to reduce their study load in the

following semester, or be given an academic warning.

Regarding termination of study, please note the Academic Regulations:

“1. The University has the right to terminate a student’s study for failure to maintain

satisfactory academic progress, as determined by the Examination Board, or to

comply with the policies and procedures of the University.

2. The Examination Board may terminate the study of a student under the following

circumstances:

(i) The student’s SGPA is below 1.00 for two consecutive enrolled semesters; or

(ii) The student’s academic progress is unsatisfactory and is unable to meet the

conditions stipulated by the home academic unit after being put on Academic

Probation for two consecutive semesters.

3. Irrespective of 2 above, the Examination Board may prescribe any other criteria for

terminating a student’s study.

4. Notwithstanding 2 and 3 above, students’ studies will be terminated if they fail to

pass a required course, or its equivalent/substitute course, after three attempts.

5. For termination of studies due to academic reasons, students may apply for

readmission to the University, with admission to any degree study occurring no

earlier than one academic year after the termination. Upon readmission after

termination of study, students may be given one additional opportunity to pass each

required course they have failed in their three previous attempts.”

Students who have earned 12 credit units or more, achieved a SGPA of 3.70 or above, and not

failed any courses at the end of each semester can be recommended for the Dean’s List.

Students may be granted an undergraduate award, only if they have achieved a CGPA of 1.70, or

above. The classification and recommendation of conferment of final awards is decided by the

Departmental Assessment Panel.

The Assessment Panel is a University body responsible for assigning grades to students for

their courses. If students wish an Assessment Panel to take into account illness or some

other circumstances that has adversely affected their performance in an examination, or

ability to attend an examination, or to complete coursework, they must refer the

circumstances of the case to the home academic unit using the “Mitigation Request Related

to Assessment” System via AIMS and submit original of the uploaded supporting

document(s) to the home academic unit as soon as possible and no later than 5 working

days of the scheduled date for completing the affected examination or assessment.

20

Award Classification for Undergraduate Degree Programmes

Award CGPA

1st Class 3.50 or above

2nd Upper 3.00-3.49

2nd Lower 2.50-2.99

3rd Class 2.00-2.49

Pass 1.70-1.99

Course Repeat Rules

Failure

Students who fail a required course (F Grade) in their major MUST repeat the same course.

After the first attempt, only TWO repeat attempts are permitted. If a student fails a required

course the third time, it may result in termination of studies.

Course Retakes

Course grades for all attempts will appear on the student’s transcript, but only the latest grade

earned will be included in the calculation of the student’s GPA.

Courses are graded according to the following schedule:

Grade Grade

Point

Grade Definitions

A+

A

A-

4.3

4.0

3.7

Excellent The qualifiers, such as “Excellent”, “Good”, “Fair” etc., define

student performance with respect to the achievement of course

intended learning outcomes (CILOs).

B+

B

B-

3.3

3.0

2.7

Good

C+

C

C-

2.3

2.0

1.7

Fair

D 1.0 Marginal

F 0.0 Failure

P

(Pass-fail

course

only)

Pass

[Note: A grade with an asterisk (e.g. B+*) is excluded from the calculation of GPA. The credits earned

will not be counted toward the minimum credit requirement for graduation but will be counted toward

the maximum number of credit units permitted.]

Operational Grades

IP In progress An IP grade is shown where students will register for the same course in the

subsequent semester/term to complete the assessment of the course.

I Incomplete A grade of incomplete may be granted (i) where there are extenuating

circumstances that have prevented a student from completing required work,

or attending the examination; (ii) at the discretion of the Assessment Panel.

Where an “I” grade is assigned, the Assessment Panel may approve a

schedule for the completion of work, or a supplementary examination. An

alternative grade should be assigned no later than four weeks after the “I”

grade is first reported or as soon as practicable thereafter.

21

TR Credit

Transfer

Assigned when a student is granted transfer credits for the course.

Z Exemption Assigned when a student is exempted from the course.

AU Audit An audited grade is assigned when an auditing student has completed the

conditions established at registration as an auditor. No assessment is made

or grade awarded for auditing.

X Late Drop Assigned when a student is permitted to drop the course after the add/drop

deadline.

WD Withdrawn Assigned when a student has registered for the course in a semester/term

and subsequently submitted a notification of withdrawal from the

University.

22

VI. RULES ON ACADEMIC HONESTY

Students must pursue their studies with academic honesty. Academic honesty is central to the

conduct of academic work. Students are expected to present their own work, give proper

acknowledgement of other’s work, and honestly report findings obtained. As part of the

University’s efforts to educate students about academic honesty, all students are required to

complete the Online Tutorial and Quiz on Academic Honesty, and make a Declaration on their

understanding of academic honesty.

Plagiarism is a serious offence involving “the use of somebody else’s ideas, words, etc. as

one’s own”. Examples of such acts are copying other students’ work in examinations, in tests, or

in tasks for coursework assignments, repetition of part or whole sentences / paragraphs / any

materials from hard-copy publications or online sites for one’s own use without

acknowledgement of the source in one’s work.

Students who commit an act of academic dishonesty which jeopardizes the integrity of the

learning and assessment process may be charged with a major offence and be liable to

disciplinary action.

Students are advised to refer to the section on “Rules on Academic Honesty” on the website of

the Office of the Provost for details.

VII. MINIMUM PASSING REQUIREMENT

Starting from Semester A, 2015/16, undergraduate students must satisfy the following

minimum passing requirement for courses offered by CHEM:

“A minimum of 40% in both coursework and examination components.”

VIII. IMPORTANT NOTES FOR COURSE REGISTRATION

1. The maximum capacity for laboratory practical session is 48 in view of limited seating

available in teaching laboratories.

2. In case of the course(s) oversubscribed, higher priority will be given to final year students

to take the course(s).

3. An elective course will be cancelled if 24 students or less register the course.

4. DegreeWorks

- It is a web-based degree audit and academic advising tool.

- It matches a student’s academic record against the curriculum requirements and helps

students learn easily what courses they still need to take to fulfill the requirements of

College/School, Gateway Education (GE), major, minor, etc.

- It provides features that help students plan their studies and communicate with their

advisors, for example, “What If”, “Look Ahead”, “Plans” and “Term Calculators” and

“Advice Calculators” functions.

- Students are reminded to make good use of DegreeWorks and review their “Study Plan”

in AIMS annually.

- For details, please visit ARRO’s website:

http://www6.cityu.edu.hk/arro/content.asp?cid=482.

http://www6.cityu.edu.hk/arro/content.asp?cid=482

23

IX. COURSES AND RESPECTIVE COURSE LEADERS (Courses offered to students of the Chemistry major)

BCH1100 Chemistry Dr Andy Siu

BCH1200 Discovery in Biology Dr Y Matsuda

BCH2003 Biochemistry

(BMS2004 Biochemistry is an equivalent

course offered to students from 2017/18.)

Dr Kiwon Ban (BMS)

BCH2004 Principles of Analytical Chemistry Dr Peggy Lo

BCH2005 Principles of Environmental Chemistry Dr G Y Zhu

BCH2006 Principles of Inorganic Chemistry Prof Kenneth Lo

BCH2007 Principles of Organic Chemistry Prof H L Kwong

BCH2008 Principles of Physical Chemistry Dr K C Lau

BCH3014 Inorganic Chemistry Dr Alex Wong

BCH3015 Organic Chemistry Prof H L Kwong

BCH3016 Physical Chemistry Prof Z T Xu

BCH3027 Analytical Chemistry Prof Kenneth Lo

BCH3038 Environmental Sampling and Risk Assessment Dr S G Cheung

BCH3042 Directed Studies in Biology/Chemistry/

Environmental Sciences

Prof Kenneth Lo

BCH3052 Chemistry Beyond the Molecule:

Supramolecular Chemistry

Prof Michael Chan

BCH3053 Computational Chemistry Dr K C Lau

BCH3055 Green Chemistry Prof István T Horváth

BCH3081 Chemical Biology of DNA and RNA Dr C K Kwok

BCH3082 Graphene: Fundamentals and Emergent

Applications

Dr T H LY

BCH3083 Cosmetic Chemistry Dr Alex Wong

BCH4021 Environmental Pollution Dr Richard Cheung

BCH4022 Environmental Toxicology Dr Richard Cheung

BCH4029 Advanced Analytical Chemistry To be announced

BCH4030 Advanced Inorganic Chemistry Dr H Hirao

*BMS: Department of Biomedical Sciences

24

BCH4031 Advanced Organic Chemistry Prof H L Kwong

BCH4033 Industrial Chemistry Prof István T Horváth

BCH4034 Environmental Control and Waste Treatment Dr Richard Cheung

BCH4035 Environmental Measurements Prof Michael Lam

BCH4036 Project Dr G Y Zhu

BCH4037 Seminar Series Dr G Y Zhu

BCH4041 Selected Topics in Chemistry Dr H Y Sun

BCH4043 Food Chemistry Dr Vincent Ko

BCH4045 Medicinal Chemistry Dr G Y Zhu

BCH4051 Forensic Chemistry Prof Michael Lam

BCH4054 Chemical Bonding and Molecular

Spectroscopy

Dr K C Lau

BCH4084 Crystallography/Solid-state Inorganic

Chemistry

Prof Z T Xu & Dr J H Lee

BCH4085 Testing and Certification Sciences Prof Michael Lam

BMS4101 Analytical Biochemistry

(not offered in 2019/20)

To be announced

BMS4106 Pharmaceutical Biotechnology


To be announced

CS1102 Introduction to Computer Studies To be announced

CS1302 Introduction to Computer Programming


To be announced

CS2204 Fundamentals of Internet Applications

Development

Dr M T Chan

CS2360 Java Programming Prof C W Ngo

FS4002 Industrial Attachment Scheme Prof Robert Li

FS4005 Overseas Internship Scheme Prof Robert Li

GE1401 University English Dr Eunseok Ro

GE1501 Chinese Civilisation – History and Philosophy Dr H C Lam

GE2401 English for Science Dr Jack Pun

(Sem A 2019/20)

Dr Christoph Hafner

(Sem B 2019/20)

25

MA1200 Calculus and Basic Linear Algebra I Dr D Dai

(Sem A 2019/20)

Dr C W Li

(Sem B 2019/20)

MA1201 Calculus and Basic Linear Algebra II Dr S Zhang

(Sem A 2019/20)

Dr G Luo

(Sem B 2019/20)

MA1300 Enhanced Calculus and Linear Algebra I Dr C W Lo

MA1301 Enhanced Calculus and Linear Algebra II Prof H H Dai

MA2008 Mathematical and Statistical Laboratory


To be announced

MA2172 Applied Statistics for Sciences and

Engineering

Dr K W Chung

PHY1201 General Physics I Prof K S Chan

26

(Courses offered to Advanced Standing II students of the Applied Biology and

Environmental Science & Management majors) *Students can choose these courses as “Free Electives”.

BCH2013 Microbiology Dr Terrence Lau (BMS)

BCH2066 Cell Biology

(BMS2201 Molecular Biology of the Cell is an

equivalent course offered to students from

2018/19.)

Dr J B Yue (BMS)

BCH2067 Diversity of Life and Evolution Dr Doris Au

BCH2070 Diversity of Life and Microbiology Laboratory Dr C K Kwok

BCH2071/

BCH2071A

Biological Chemistry Dr H Y Sun

BCH2072 Laboratory Course for Cell Biology and

Biochemistry

Dr Eddie Ma (BMS)

BCH3012 Genetics Dr Richard Kong

BCH3017 Molecular Biology Dr Richard Kong

BCH3068/

BCH3068A

General Ecology Dr S G Cheung

BCH3069 Animal Physiology Prof Y Li (BMS)

BCH3074 Plant Physiology Prof Nora Tam

BCH4039 Environmental Conservation and Resources

Management

Prof Nora Tam

BCH4040/

BCH4040A

Environmental Impact Assessment Dr Richard Cheung

BCH4064 Biological Techniques and Instrumentation Dr Y W Lam

BCH4078/

BCH4078A

Aquatic Ecology Dr S G Cheung

27

X. SERVICING COURSES AND RESPECTIVE COURSE LEADERS *Students can choose these servicing courses as “Free Electives”.

GE1346 The Chemists Kitchen

(The Science of Food and Cooking)

Prof H L Kwong

GE1353 Science, Buddhism, and Life Dr Alex Wong

GE2322 The Nobel Prize: A Discovery Approach to

Human Greatness

Dr Y W Lam

GE2333 The Science of Cosmetics Dr Alex Wong

GE2334 Science Versus Crime Prof Michael Lam

28

XI. MAJOR PROGRAMME MANAGEMENT AND STAFF-STUDENT

COMMUNICATION

Major Programme Committee and Major Leader

The Major Programme Committee is the departmental body responsible for the overall

management, operation and quality assurance of the majors. The Committee consists of

academic staff and student members. Two students from each major-year, elected by and from

the students studying in each year of the major, are appointed to the Committee on a one-year

term. For 2019/20, the Chairperson of the BSc Major Programme Committee is

Prof Kenneth Lo who is also the Major Leader. The Major Leader reports to the Head of

Department and is responsible for the effective operation of the major.

Subject Leader

The Subject Leader is responsible for the development of the curriculum and give academic

advice to students in relation to the selection of courses. For 2019/20, the Subject Leader for

chemistry-related courses is Prof Kenneth Lo.

Joint Staff-Student Consultative Committee (JSSCC)

Student feedback is an important element for the quality assurance process of the major. The

JSSCC is established to provide a channel of consultative process between students and staff in

the Department. The meetings are conducted in an informal manner and are held once every

semester. Students are encouraged to express their views and suggestions on the content,

organization and teaching of the majors. The JSSCC is made up of student representatives (two

from each major-year) and the Year Tutors. The Chairperson of the JSSCC for 2019/20 is

Dr Alex Wong.

Academic Staff

If you encounter any difficulties in a particular course, you should consult the academic staff

concerned without delay. They can be reached by phone or by email. For any problems relating

to laboratory classes, laboratory demonstrators are also available for your assistance.

29

Year Tutors

In order to cultivate a better relationship between students and academic staff, the Year Tutors,

who report to Major Leader, are appointed for organising non-academic activities for the

students. Their general duties include making scholarship nominations, liaise with Student

Development Services (SDS), and organising industrial placements for students etc. For the

current academic year of 2019/20, the Year Tutors and their specific responsibilities are listed

below:

First Year Tutor Second Year Tutor Third Year Tutor Fourth Year Tutor

Dr Alex Wong Dr Hongyan Sun Dr Peggy Lo Dr Andy Siu

Student Mentoring

Scheme Coordinator

Scheme Orientation Day

Coordinator

Student Mentoring

Scheme

Coordinator

(Deputy)

Student Exchange

Coordinator

Student Mentoring Scheme

City University of Hong Kong is operating a mentoring system for new students to help them to

adapt to the learning environment of the University. The Department has joined this system

since 1996. We aim to foster a better relationship between the academic staff and students, and

to facilitate students’ whole personal development so that they can make the best of their

university education. Together with one senior student, each academic staff member will mentor

a group of Year One students. Students may approach their staff or student mentor at any time,

especially on matters relating to their academic programme and learning. Staff and student

mentors will organise activities throughout your first year to enhance group dynamics. The

coordinators for the Student Mentoring Scheme 2019/20 are Dr Alex Wong and Dr Peggy

Lo (Deputy).

Biology and Chemistry Society (BCHS)

BCH Society is an organization made up of students of the Department of Chemistry. The

missions of the Society are to foster a spirit of unity, to provide welfare to its members, and to

promote a sense of belonging to the Department among fellow students. The Society through

organizing regular social functions provides a focal point for students’ social life in the

University, and cultivate a closer relationship between students and staff in the Department.

Every year it organizes a series of orientation programmes such as the Orientation Camp at the

beginning of Semester A for newcomers to familiarize themselves with the various aspects of

the Society and student life. It also organizes many other activities for its members such as the

Welfare Sale. Students are encouraged to participate in the activities organized by the Society.

You can contact the Society via its e-mail address at “[email protected]”. The

Liaison Officer of BCHS for 2019/20 academic year is Dr Vincent Ko.

30

Canvas

Canvas is an e-learning platform established for all undergraduate and postgraduate courses

which can also be used as a means of communication for staff and students. Through Canvas,

students can provide feedback to the Major Leaders or Year Tutors throughout the whole year

and thus maintain a continuous dialogue with them.

Wiki Site for CHEM students

A special channel has been created to facilitate our communication with students. The link can

be found under “Related Links” on the homepage of the CHEM website. The Wiki Site is the

main platform to provide important news and announcements for CHEM students’ attention.

Please check the Wiki Site on a regular basis.

Student Development Services (SDS)

The SDS of the CityU has many student-centred services that every CityU student can

participate in. It provides support and assistance to students in the following ways:

Attain an all-round development

Enrich campus life

Make career plans and choices

Solve personal problems

Enhance physical and mental well-being

Seek financial assistance

Apply for scholarship

Solicit welfare provisions

For details, please visit its website at “http://www.cityu.edu.hk/sds”.

Do make use of this opportunity to enrich your university life!

* Refer to page 22 for Minimum Passing Requirement for courses offered by CHEM.

31

XII. COURSE DESCRIPTION *Course

-work

*Exam

BCH1100 Chemistry 30% 70%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Fundamental Concepts:

- Atoms, Ions, and Molecules

- Periodic Table

- Electronic Structure of Atoms

- Chemical Bonding: ionic and covalent

- Stoichiometry: Calculations with Chemical

Formulas and Equations

- States of Matters: Gases, Liquids, and Solids

- Chemical Kinetics and Equilibrium

- Thermochemistry

- Acids and Bases

- Oxidation and Reduction

- Nuclear Chemistry

- Inorganic and Organic Chemistry

- Biological Chemistry

Examples of Daily-Life Chemistry:

- Global Warming

- Ozone Layer

- Acid Rain

- Energy

- Electricity

- Chemical Cells

- Nuclear Power

- Minerals

- Plastics

- Polymers

- Nutrition

- Drugs

- Molecules of Life

- And many more to be discovered


32

*Course

-work

*Exam

BCH1200 Discovery in Biology 40% 60%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Microbiology

The Chemistry of Life

The Biology of Cells

Genetics

Ecology

Evolution and Biodiversity

Plant Evolution and Diversity

Animal Physiology

A Brave New World

BCH2003 Biochemistry 30% 70%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: BCH1200 or BCH2007 or BCH2071

Chemistry, biological functions, metabolic

pathways

Thermodynamics, bioenergetics

Metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids

Lipid biosynthesis and fatty acid catabolism

Metabolic integration and cancer metabolism

BCH2004 Principles of Analytical Chemistry 30% 70%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Data treatment

Gravimetric methods

Aqueous solutions

Equilibrium calculations

Titrimetry/Precipitate formation

Complex-formation/ Complex titrations

Acid-base titrations/ Non-aqueous titrations

Basic electrochemistry

REDOX titrations

Potentiometry

Spectrophotometry

Atomic spectroscopy/ Molecular spectroscopy

Gas chromatography/ Liquid chromatography


33

*Course

-work

*Exam

BCH2005 Principles of Environmental Chemistry 30% 70%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Basic Concepts

Natural waters (hydrosphere)

Minerals, clay, soil and sediments (lithosphere)

Biochemistry of important elements (biosphere)

Atmosphere

BCH2006 Principles of Inorganic Chemistry 30% 70%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Atomic Structure

Atomic Properties

Chemical Bonding

Coordination Chemistry

Solvents, Solutions, Acids and Bases

BCH2007 Principles of Organic Chemistry 40% 60%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Carbon compounds

Acids and bases, electronic effect

Alkanes and cycloalkanes

Stereochemistry

Infrared spectroscopy and UV-vis spectroscopy

Alkyl halides

Alkenes and alkynes

Alcohols and ethers

Aromatic compounds

Carboxylic acid and its derivatives

Amines

BCH2008 Principles of Physical Chemistry 30% 70%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Introduction

State of Matter

Radiation and Matter

Thermodynamics

Kinetics


34

*Course-

work

*Exam

BCH2013 Microbiology 45% 55%

Prerequisite: BCH1200

Precursor: Nil

Microbial diversity of archaea, bacteria, fungi,

protists, viruses

Microbial growth

Microbial ecology

Industrial microorganisms and products for the

health and food industry

Microbial interactions with humans

Microbial growth control

BCH2066 Cell Biology 20% 80%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: BCH1200

Basic concept of cells as the functional units of life

Major organelles in plant and animal cells

Differences and similarities between prokaryotes

and eukaryotes

Basic concept of the cell cycle and cell death

Cytoskeleton systems of microtubule and

actin-myosn

Specialization of different cell types for their

functions

Human diseases caused by malformation or

malfunctioning of different cellular structures

Action of natural toxins on the cellular structures

BCH2067 Diversity of Life and Evolution 40% 60%


Precursor: Nil

Principles of classification and binomial

nomenclature

Darwin’s theory of evolution

Plant diversity and evolution

Animal diversity and evolution


35

*Course

-work

*Exam

BCH2070 Diversity of Life and Microbiology Laboratory 100% Nil


Precursor: BCH2013, BCH2067

Principles of microscopy and their applications

Laboratory safety

Aseptic techniques

Differentiation of different bacterial groups –

staining and biochemical methods

Morphological and functional characteristics of

Single-cell algae and protists, Major fungal groups

and chromists, Non-vascular plants,Vascular

non-seed plants, Vascular plants, Invertebrate

animals, Vertebrate animals

BCH2071/ Biological Chemistry 30% 70%

BCH2071A Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: BCH1200

Introduction to biological chemistry

Buffers and indicators

Organic nomenclature, functional groups and

organic reactions

Biomolecules (i.e. nucleic acids, proteins,

carbohydrates and lipids)

Enzyme classification, catalytic mechanism and

kinetics

Structure, chemical reactions and biological

functions of biomolecules

Bioenergetics and free energy

BCH2072 Laboratory Course for Cell Biology and

Biochemistry

100% Nil

Prerequisite: Nil


Basic laboratory skills including solution

preparation and pipetting

Cell culture, cell counting, and cell disruption

Genomic DNA isolation and concentration

measurement

Cytotoxicity, cell morphology and microscopy


36

*Course

-work

*Exam

BCH3012 Genetics 40% 60%


Precursor: BCH2013 or BCH3013

Chemistry of genetic materials

Gene structure, function and regulation

Genetic variation, evolution and population

genetics

Genetics of viruses and bacteria

Eukaryotic genetics

Population genetics

Applied Genetics

BCH3014 Inorganic Chemistry 30% 70%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: BCH2006

Symmetry and Group Theory

Application of group theory to Infrared and Raman

Spectroscopy

Molecular Orbital Theory

Bonding in Transition Metal Complexes

Organometallic Chemistry

BCH3015 Organic Chemistry 30% 70%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: BCH2007

Aromatic and heterocyclic Chemistry

Carbonyl Chemistry

Reaction Mechanisms

Application of NMR and MS in organic chemistry


37

*Course

-work

*Exam

BCH3016 Physical Chemistry 30% 70%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: BCH2008

Nonelectrolyte Solutions

Electrolyte Solutions

Chemical Equilibrium

Electrochemistry

Chemical Kinetics

Surface Chemistry and Colloids

Macromolecules

Thermodynamics

Chemical Interactions Involving Solids, Liquids

and Gases in the Environment

BCH3017 Molecular Biology 40% 60%


Precursor: BCH2003, BCH2013, BCH3012

In vitro and in vivo genetic manipulation

Gene structure, function and regulation

Biochemical engineering

Creation and application of transgenic animals and

plants

Molecular biology and biotechnology

Bioinformatics – application of basic computational

techniques

BCH3027 Analytical Chemistry 30% 70%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Chromatographic Separations

Gas Chromatography

High Performance Liquid Chromatography

Atomic Spectrometry

Mass Spectrometry

Potentiometry

Fluorescence Spectroscopy


38

*Course

-work

*Exam

BCH3038 Environmental Sampling and Risk Assessment 40% 60%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Introduction to integrated environmental

management systems; cost-benefit considerations;

sustainable development

Techniques and equipment in environmental

sampling and field experiments

Collection and analysis of field data, extrapolation

and limitation of data

Bio-statistics. Experimental and sampling design:

controls, random sampling, stratified random

sampling, hierarchical sampling, field

manipulation. Optimal sample size. Factorial

design, Latin square, Power analysis

Prospective, retrospective, and comparative risk

assessment of environmental contaminants

Hazard identification, dose-response assessment,

exposure assessment, and risk characterization

Uncertainty analysis and probabilistic risk

assessment


39

*Course

-work

*Exam

BCH3042 Directed Studies in

Biology/Chemistry/Environmental Sciences

100% Nil

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

The course is flexible, and has no specific syllabus.

An academic staff member can direct student(s) to

attend a particular workshop or course, participate

in a study tour, conduct fieldwork, library search or

a small research project, or assist on a bigger

project, etc. in Biology/Chemistry/Environmental

Sciences. A student can also approach an academic

staff member to carry out directed studies.

Innovative and discovery-based elements are

essential in the study.

The course is to be taken only once by students

throughout their programme of study.

The number of credits assigned to the directed

studies is assigned according to time spent for a

particular study, the level of difficulty, and the

depth of the studies. The maximum credit units

gained should be between 1 and 4.

The nature of the study, number of credit units

gained, and evaluation / assessment pattern will be

considered by a Directed Studies Committee which

will make a recommendation to the Head of the

Department for endorsement before initiating the

Directed Studies.

BCH3052 Chemistry Beyond the Molecule:


30% 70%

Prerequisite: BCH2006, BCH2007

Precursor: Nil

Lock-and-Key Principle

Hydrogen Bonding and Intermolecular Bonds

Molecular Recognition

Chelate, Conformational and Macrocyclic Effects

Ionic Recognition: Cation- and Anion-Binding

Hosts

Selectivity in Host Molecules

Preparation of Synthetic Host Molecules

Natural Host Molecules

Self-Assembly

Applications of Supramolecular Chemistry


40

*Course

-work

*Exam

BCH3053 Computational Chemistry 50% 50%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Electronic Structure Methods

Atomic and Molecular Properties

Using Quantum Chemistry Programs

Structure

Energetic

Reactivity

Spectral Simulation

BCH3055 Green Chemistry 50% 50%

Prerequisite: BCH2006, BCH2007, BCH2008

Precursor: Nil

Accidents, Algae, Aqueous, Atom economy

Biodiesel, Bioethanol, Biofuels, Bio-inspired,

Biomass

Catalysis, Chemicals, Chemofobia

Environmental factor, Enzymes, Extended liquids

Fluorous

Glass, Global warming, Green chemistry

Heterogeneous, Homogeneous

Ionic liquids

Metals, Microwave, MTBE

Organic, Ozone hole

Plastics, Pollution, Prevention, Principles

Real time monitoring, Recycling, Rubber

Sonocation, Super critical media, Sustainability,

Sustainable developments

Toxicity

Unleaded gasoline

Zeolites


41

*Course-

work

*Exam

BCH3068/ General Ecology 40% 60%

BCH3068A Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: BCH2067

What is ecology?

Principles and concepts on organismal ecology

Ecology of sex and group living

Population biology

Intra- and inter-specific competition

Trophic structure and relationships

Community ecology

Ecosystem types

Ecosystem function and dynamics

Biogeochemical cycles

BCH3069 Animal Physiology 40% 60%


Precursor: Nil

The terminology and basic principles of structure

and function in animals cardiovascular, respiratory,

renal, endocrine, immune, and gastrointestinal

physiology; locomotion, and sensory physiology;

animal reproduction and central nervous systems

The functions of different cell types and their

interactions in organs system

Mechanisms by which organ systems are

controlled and functions coordinated

Introduction of human physiology emphasizing

mechanisms of control and regulation


42

*Course

-work

*Exam

BCH3074 Plant Physiology 40% 60%


Precursor: Nil

Photosynthesis and translocation of

photoassimilates

Gaseous exchange, water uptake and transportation

Hormones, movement, morphogenesis,

photoperiodism and dormancy

Reproduction, seed germination and development

Physiology of plants under stress

Plant biotechnology

BCH3081 Chemical Biology of DNA and RNA 55% 45%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: BCH2003 or BCH2007 or BCH2071

Introduction to Nucleic Acids

Solid phase chemical synthesis of nucleic acids

Principles of antisense oligonucleotides for

therapeutics

Recognition of DNA by synthetic chemical

molecules

RNA secondary and tertiary structure

Protein recognition of DNA and RNA

Chemical and enzymatic cleavage of nucleic acids

RNA enzymes and ribosome

Chemistry of DNA sequencing


Applications

40% 60%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: PHY1201, BCH1100, BCH2008

Introduction to Graphene

Properties of Graphene

Methods for Obtaining Graphene

Characterization Techniques

Applications of Graphene

Graphene, C60 and other carbon related materials

Graphene and You


43

*Course

-work

*Exam

BCH3083 Cosmetic Chemistry 60% 40%


Precursor: Nil

The science of beauty and introduction to cosmetic

chemistry

Skin & hair biology for cosmetics

Fine chemicals for cosmetic: solvent, emulsifiers,

surfactants, emollients, oils, waxes, humectants,

fragrances, additives and beyond

Formulating cosmetics: aqueous and surfactant

systems in theories

Formulating cosmetics: aqueous systems in

practice (Experiment I: making of brightening

serum)

Formulating cosmetics: aqueous systems in

practice (Experiment II: making of gentle

shampoo)

Formulating cosmetics: emulsion systems in

theories

Formulating cosmetics: emulsion systems in

practice (Experiment III: making of moisturizing

day cream)

Formulating colour cosmetics: solid systems and

other specialty products

Formulating colour cosmetics: solid systems in

practice (Experiment IV: making of a gloss

lipstick)

Importance of cosmetic safety and assessment

Group presentation

Summary and revision

BCH4021 Environmental Pollution 50% 50%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: BCH2067

Air Pollution

Water Pollution

Sources, Fates, Effects of Pollutants

Chemical and Biological Monitoring of Pollution


44

*Course

-work

*Exam

BCH4022 Environmental Toxicology 50% 50%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Environmental toxicants and their fates

Toxicity tests and bioassay

Management of environmental toxicants

BCH4029 Advanced Analytical Chemistry 35% 65%


Precursor: BCH3027

Separation Techniques

Mass Spectrometry

Bioanalytical Techniques

Surface Analysis Techniques

Electron Microscope Techniques

Current Trend and Future Perspectives of

Analytical Chemistry

BCH4030 Advanced Inorganic Chemistry 30% 70%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: BCH3014

Oxidation and Reduction

Inorganic Reaction Mechanisms

Metalloproteins

Inorganic Photochemistry

BCH4031 Advanced Organic Chemistry 30% 70%

Prerequisite: Nil


Aldol reactions and enolate anions

Carbohydrates and lipids

Multi-step organic syntheses

Conformational, steric, and stereoelectronic effects

Organic reaction mechanisms

Nucleophilic substitution reaction


45

*Course

-work

*Exam

BCH4033 Industrial Chemistry 40% 60%

Prerequisite: BCH2006, BCH2007, BCH2008

Precursor: Nil

The role of chemical technology in the world

The role of physical chemistry in chemical

technology

The fundamentals of chemical engineering

Energy production

The raw materials of the chemical and

petrochemical industry

Chemical processes related to water

The products and processes of the inorganic

chemical industry

Synthetic fuels

C1 chemical processes

The products and processes of the organic chemical

industry

Polymers

The fundamentals and products of biotechnology

Agricultural chemicals

Challenges for sustainable developments

BCH4034 Environmental Control and Waste Treatment 40% 60%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Environmental Control

Types and sources of pollution

Environmental policy making

Legal aspects of environmental pollution

Environmental standards and regulations

Pollution Control Ordinances

Economic and social implications of environmental

protection

Waste Treatment

Sources and kinds of wastes

Clean production technology

“Cradle to Grave” approach to waste management

Management of toxic and hazardous wastes

Waste management in Hong Kong

Socio-economic considerations


46

*Course

-work

*Exam

BCH4035 Environmental Measurements 45% 55%

Prerequisite: Nil


Strategies in Environmental Monitoring

Trace analysis

Water and Sediment Quality Measurement

Air Quality Measurement

Environmental Modelling and its Applications

BCH4036 Project 100% Nil

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Management of a substantial piece of individual

research and developmental research project

Critical thinking and problem-solving skills

Effective communication in the form of written and

verbal presentation of scientific information

BCH4037 Seminar Series 100% Nil

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Management of a substantial piece of individual

research and developmental research project

Critical thinking and problem-solving skills

Effective communication in the form of written and

verbal presentation of scientific information


47

*Course

-work

*Exam

BCH4039 Environmental Conservation and Resources

Management

40% 60%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Principles of conservation and management of

renewable and non-renewable resources

Conservation and management of agriculture/

forestry

Conservation and management of wildlife/ natural

resources

Conservation and management of coastal/ fisheries

resources

Conservation and protection of endangered species

The use of GIS and remote sensing techniques in

the conservation and management of natural

resources

Environmental economies in conservation and

management of natural resources/ habitats

Case studies

BCH4040 Environmental Impact Assessment 40% 60%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Principles, objectives and application of EIA

EIA processes

Methodologies in the identification, prediction and

assessment of specific and cumulative impacts:

overlay, checklist, matrices, sequences flow

diagram, network and other systems

Identification and evaluation of mitigation

measures

Risk characterization, assessment and management

Content, preparation and review of environmental

impact statements

Monitoring and auditing of environment impacts

Case studies from developed and developing

countries. Specific socio-economic impacts and

limitations of EIA in developing countries. Case

studies from studies from Hong Kong

Problems and constraints of EIA


48

*Course

-work

*Exam

BCH4041 Selected Topics in Chemistry 30% 70%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Organic Chemistry

Inorganic Chemistry

Chemistry and society

Industrial, biological and environmental

importance of chemistry

Catalysis

Luminescent and functional materials

Characterization and analytical techniques

Physical principles concerning the selected topics

BCH4043 Food Chemistry 40% 60%

Prerequisite: BCH2003 or BCH2007

Precursor: Nil

Introduction to Food Chemistry

Water and its physico-chemical characteristics

Carbohydrate components in food

Chemistry of lipids in relation to lipid

characteristics, emulsions and gels

Protein structure in relation to food characteristics

and nutritional value

Chemical and biochemical properties of foods

Chemical food additives and their functionalities in

food processing

Analysis of foods


49

*Course

-work

*Exam

BCH4045 Medicinal Chemistry 30% 70%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: BCH2007

Drug discovery, design and development process:

drug screening, lead compound, ADME,

metabolism, clinical trials

Drug target and drug: enzyme, DNA, enzyme

inactivation, competitive enzyme inhibitor,

irreversible enzyme inhibitor, DNA-interactive

drug, DNA intercalator, DNA alkylator, DNA

strand breaker, drug combination, drug resistance,

drug interaction

Target identification: active site, affinity, efficacy,

potency, in vivo and in vitro tests

Anticancer and antibacterial drugs: platinum-based

anticancer drugs, taxol, methotrexate, Vinca

Alkaliods

Lead identification, structure-activity relationships,

pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics

BCH4051 Forensic Chemistry 30% 70%


Precursor: Nil

Forensic toxicology

Analysis of blood, bloodstains and other biological

fluids and stains

Examination of physical forensic evidence

Microanalysis and examination of trace evidence

Examination of firearms, bullets and explosives

Investigation of arson cases

Forensic DNA analysis

Forensic medicine, odontology & anthropology

Examination of questioned documents


50

*Course

-work

*Exam

BCH4054 Chemical Bonding and Molecular Spectroscopy 30% 70%


Precursor: Nil

Quantum Mechanics

Symmetry, Group Theory and Quantum

Mechanics

Nature of Radiation, Atomic and Molecular

Transitions

Electronic Absorption Spectroscopy

Vibration and Rotation Spectroscopies

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance and Electron

Paramagnetic Resonance Spectroscopies

Photoelectron Spectroscopy

BCH4064 Biological Techniques and Instrumentation 45% 55%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: BCH2003

This course will focus on three groups of biological

techniques:

Visualization of gene expression

o Microscopy

Manipulation of gene expression

o Introduction of foreign DNA into cells

o RNA interference

Detection of gene expression

o Detection of protein expression

o Proteomics

This course will also include the following skills:

Presentation skills

Technology transfer

Entrepreneurship in science

Open source learning in science


51

*Course-

work

*Exam

BCH4078 Aquatic Ecology 40% 60%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: BCH2067 and/or BCH3068

Physical and chemical characteristics and

processes, as well as the ecological structure, of

aquatic ecosystems

Species interactions and their significance in the

determination of community structure and

patterns

Review the impact of human activities on the

ecology of aquatic ecosystems

BCH4084 Crystallography/Solid-state Inorganic Chemistry 40% 60%


Precursor: Nil

Solids and society

Industrial and environmental importance of solid

state materials

Crystal structure, packing of molecules, basic

diffraction theory

Properties of solids: porosity, conductivity and

semiconductivity, luminescence, and plasmonics

Applications of solids: catalysts, field effect

transistors, light-emitting diodes, solar cells, fuel

cells, environment sensors, biomedical sensors

Preparation of inorganic-based solids and nano-

particles&-materials and methods of crystal

growth


52

*Course-

work

*Exam

BCH4085 Testing and Certification Sciences 30% 70%


Precursor: BCH3027

Commercial laboratory management practice

ISO9001 & ISO/IEC 17025

Environmental management in laboratory

(ISO14001)

Safety management in laboratory (OHSAS18001)

Management/ technical requirements for

accreditation

Calibration practice

ISO Guide to expression of uncertainty in

measurement

EURACHEM/CITAC Guide of quantifying

uncertainty in analytical measurement

Traceability concept

Quality assurance in testing

Standard operation procedure (SOP) for difference

testing methods and sampling technique

Internal auditor requirements

Laboratory assessor requirements

BMS4101 Analytical Biochemistry 40% 60%

Prerequisite: Nil


Introduction and Review

Cell-based techniques Flow cytometry, Coulter

counter Cell culture: 2D and 3D

Nucleic Acids

Proteins

Omics Techniques

Other Frontiers

BMS4106 Pharmaceutical Biotechnology 40% 60%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: BCH2003/BCH2003A or BCH3017

Drug discovery and design of biopharmaceuticals

Cell culture and recombinant organisms

Innovative technologies for discovery of drugs

Patient drugs

Production process

Quality assurance

Formulation and delivery

Regulatory issues


53

*Course-

work

*Exam

CS1102 Introduction to Computer Studies 40% 60%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Logical operations

Binary arithmetic

Basic operations of computer, data, CPU, memory,

bus, IO, peripherals

Programming concepts – instructions, programs,

need for high-level language, compilers,

interpreters

Basic data types (integers, Boolean, characters and

strings)

Variables, expressions, and operations

Compound statements and control structures

Functions and parameters

Operating systems – Unix, Windows

File system

End-user computing – word processing, spread

sheet, presentation tool

Databases

Data communication – switches, networks, LANs,

WANs, routers

Internet – internet protocol, internet applications,

email, file transfer, web browser, web server, web

searching, basic html/css

Concepts of client-side and server-side scripting

Digital media, multimedia software tools

Basic computer security, virus, filtering and

scanning tools


54

*Course-

work

*Exam

CS1302 Introduction to Computer Programming 40% 60%

Prerequisite: Level 2 or above in HKDSE

Information & Communication

Technology with Software

Development elective, or Pass in

a placement test administered by

CS Department

Precursor: Nil

The development of algorithms

Program design

Programming language

Control structures

Data types

Arrays

Functions and parameters

Composite data types

Structured decomposition

Programming style

Program testing

Introduction to recursion

CS2204 Fundamentals of Internet Applications Development 50% 50%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Review of Internet organization

Common Internet services and protocols

HyperText Transfer Protocol (HTTP)

Client-server model

HyperText Markup Language (HTML)

Document Object Model (DOM)

Cascading Style Sheet (CSS)

Scripting language and Web browser

JavaScript and Client-side programming models


55

*Course-

work

*Exam

CS2360 Java Programming 50% 50%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Problem solving techniques

Elements of coding styles

Basic data types and declarations

Basic object-orientation, such as classes,

inheritance and polymorphism

Expressions

Assignment

Basic I/O operations and control structures

Functions and procedures

Parameter passing

Block structure

Scope of variables

Structured data types

Arrays

Lists

Files and advanced I/O

Levels of abstraction

Concept of data hiding

Abstract data types and structures

Iteration and recursion

Basic flow-charting and/or simple UML diagrams


56

*Course

-work

*Exam

FS4002 Industrial Attachment Scheme 100% Nil

Prerequisite: (1) This course is designed for

students who have completed Year 3.

(2) All job specifications and

requirements must be submitted to

Co-operative Education Centre

(CEC) for prior approval.

(3) Pre-attachment Training

Precursor: Nil

This course aims to provide students with the

opportunity to:

(a) integrate the knowledge they acquired in classroom

and apply it in real work setting

(b) appreciate work ethics and professionalism in real

work environment

(c) appreciate team work, group / organizational

behaviour in a work environment

(d) develop an understanding of the operation of

industry, based on which students can further plan

their career

It is conducted at the host company/institution whereby

students are jointly supervised by the host mentor and

the CityU supervisor.


57

*Course

-work

*Exam

FS4005 Overseas Internship Scheme 100% Nil

Prerequisite: (1) This course is designed for

students who have completed Year 3.

(2) All job specifications and

requirements must be submitted to

Co-operative Education Centre

(CEC) for prior approval.

(3) Pre-attachment Training

Precursor: Nil

This course aims to provide students with the

opportunity to acquire research skills and experience

the life of a full-time researcher in a research

environment and/or experience real work in an

industrial setting overseas. From the work/research

experience, students learn to:

(a) integrate the knowledge they acquired in classroom

and apply it to work;

(b) appreciate work ethics and professionalism;

(c) appreciate team work, group / organizational

behaviour;

(d) develop an understanding of the operation of

industry or research, based on which students can

further plan their career;

(e) appreciate the cultural diversity of the host country

and broaden their horizon;

It is conducted at the host company/institution overseas

whereby students are jointly supervised by the host

mentor and the CityU supervisor.


58

*Course

-work

*Exam

GE1401 University English 100% Nil

Prerequisite: Grade D in HKAL Use of English or

Grade 4 in HKDSE or successful

completion of English Academic

Proficiency Courses (EL0220,

EL0222, EL0223 and EL0225 – 6

credits) or English for Academic

Purposes (EL0200 – 6 credits) or

English for Academic Purposes 2

(EL0200B – 3 credits) or Grade B or

above in English for Academic

Purposes 1 (EL0200A – 3 credits)

Precursor: Nil

Writing as a tool for discovery

The process of writing

Argumentative writing

Research and using evidence

Integrating other people’s words and ideas

Avoiding plagiarism

Peer review

Needs analysis

Self-assessment

Online self-study

GE1501 Chinese Civilisation - History and Philosophy 100% Nil

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Aesthetics

Agriculture

Arts

Asian countries

Buddhism

China

Chinese Civilisation

Civil Examination

System

Clan

Commerce

Confucianism

Daoism

Dynastic Cycle

Family

Gender

History

Intellectual

Foundations

Intelligentsia

Language

Lineage

Literature

Medicine

Music

Operas

Philosophy

Political Institution

Power Structure

Science

Technology

World

Regions

Ethnic Groups


59

*Course

-work

*Exam

GE2401 English for Science 100% Nil

Prerequisite: Grade D in HKAL Use of English or

Grade 4 in HKDSE or successful

completion of English Academic

Proficiency Courses (EL0220,

EL0222, EL0223 and EL0225 – 6

credits) or English for Academic

Purposes (EL0200 – 6 credits) or

English for Academic Purposes 2

(EL0200B – 3 credits) or Grade B or

above in English for Academic

Purposes 1 (EL0200A – 3 credits)

Precursor: Nil

English for science

Scientific

communication

Critical literacy

Scientific

popularizations

Scientific documentary

Visual communication

Multimodality

Scientific report

Specialized

communication

Academic writing

Citation and

referencing

Plagiarism


60

*Course

-work

*Exam

MA1200 Calculus and Basic Linear Algebra I 30% 70%

Prerequisite: (i) HKDSE Mathematics Compulsory

Part, or

(ii) HKDSE Mathematics Compulsory

Part and Extended Part Module 1,

or

(iii) HKDSE Mathematics Compulsory

Part and Extended Part Module 2

(Levels 1-3); or equivalent

Note to students: Students with

HKDSE Mathematics Extended Part

Module 2 (Levels 4-5) are required to

take MA1300 instead.

Precursor: Nil

Polynomials; Mathematical induction; Binomial

theorem

Coordination geometry and conic sections; Basic

trigonometry

Functions and inverses; Limits, continuity and

differentiability

Techniques of differentiation, implicit, logarithmic

and parametric differentiation; Successive

differentiation

Applications of differentiation: rate of change, local

extrema, optimization problems, Taylor series,

L’Hôpital rule

MA1201 Calculus and Basic Linear Algebra II 30% 70%

Prerequisite: MA1200, or Grade B or above in

MA1100 (approval from MA must be

obtained), or MA1300 (approval from

MA must be obtained)

Precursor: Nil

Definite and indefinite integrals; Techniques of

integration, integration of rational functions,

integration by substitution, integration by parts

Physical and geometric applications of integration

Vectors in R 2 and R 3; Scalar products, cross

products, triple scalar products; Linear

(in)dependence

Arithmetic of complex numbers; Polar and Euler

forms; De Moivre’s theorem and its applications

Matrices; Determinants, cofactor expansion;

Systems of linear equations, Gaussian elimination,

Cramer’s rule; Matrix inverses, Gauss-Jordan

elimination method


61

*Course

-work

*Exam

MA1300 Enhanced Calculus and Linear Algebra I 30% 70%

Prerequisite: HKDSE Mathematics Compulsory

Part and Extended Part Module 1

(Level 5), or HKDSE Mathematics

Compulsory Part and Extended Part

Module 2 (Level 3-5); or equivalent

Precursor: Nil

Polynomials; Mathematical induction

Coordinate geometry and conic sections; Basic

trigonometry

Functions and inverses

Limits of sequences and infinite series

Limits, continuity and differentiability of functions

Techniques of differentiation, implicit, logarithmic

and parametric differentiation; Successive

differentiation

MA1301 Enhanced Calculus and Linear Algebra II 30% 70%

Prerequisite: MA1300, or Grade B or above in

MA1200 (approval from MA must be

obtained)

Precursor: Nil

Basic theorems of differentiation

Applications of differentiation: rate of change,

local extrema, optimization problems, power and

Taylor series, L’Hôpital rule

Definite and indefinite integrals; Techniques of

integration, integration by substitution, integration

by parts; Improper integrals

Physical and geometric applications of integration

Vectors in R 2 and R 3; Scalar products, cross

products, triple scalar products; Linear

(in)dependence; Applications to equations of lines

and planes

Matrices; Determinants, cofactor expansion;

Systems of linear equations, Gaussian elimination,

Cramer’s rule; Matrix inverses, Gauss-Jordan

elimination method

Arithmetic of complex numbers; Polar and Euler

forms; De Moivre’s theorem and its applications


62

*Course

-work

*Exam

MA2008 Mathematical and Statistical Laboratory 100% Nil

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: MA2172 and MA2176 or MA2001 or

MA2127 or Math at HKAS (Grade E

or above)

Introduction to Computer Systems

Numerical tools

Statistical packages

Mathematical packages

MA2172 Applied Statistics for Sciences and Engineering 30% 70%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Random variables

Distribution

Data and sample description

Estimation of parameters

Tests of hypothesis

Regression

ANOVA

PHY1201 General Physics I 30% 70%

Prerequisite: HKDSE Mathematics

Compulsory Part or equivalent

Precursor: HKDSE Physics or Combined

Science (Physics, Chemistry) or

Combined Science (Biology,

Physics) or AP1200/PHY1200

Foundation Physics

Mechanics: Vectors and scalars. Resolving forces.

Newton’s laws of motion. Conservation of energy.

Moments and torques. Gravitation. Circular

motion.

Heat and gases: Temperature and heat. Heat

capacity. Latent heat. Thermal expansion. Gas

laws. Kinetic theory of gases.

Waves: Traveling waves. Standing waves.

Huygens’ construction. Interference, refraction and

diffraction. Doppler effect.

Optics: Reflection. Refraction. Lenses.

Note: Any update of course information will be available on homepages of CHEM and other

servicing departments.


63

XIII. SERVICING COURSE DESCRIPTION

*Course

-work

*Exam

GE1346 The Chemists Kitchen

(The Science of Food and Cooking)

60% 40%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Chemistry of food components

Sensation and food

Cooking methods and their effects on food from a

scientific perspective (Experiment 1)

Importance of oil and water in food preparation

(Experiment 2)

Seafood

Vegetables and fruit

Meats (pork, beef, poultry) (Experiment 3)

Eggs (Experiment 4)

Pasta and noodles

Preparation of tofu, jelly, thickened food, etc. from

liquid food and their chemistry

Chemistry of baking

Group presentation

GE1353 Science, Buddhism, and Life 70% 30%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Science:

Logics

Observations

Hypotheses

Experiments

Theories

Models

Laws

Occam’s razor

Scope of investigation

Predictions

Buddhism:

Impermanence

Dissatisfactory

No-self

Dharma

Karma

The Four Noble Truths

The Eightfold Path

The Five Aggregates

The Twelve Links

Dependent arising

Nirvana

Meditation


64

*Course

-work

*Exam

GE2322 The Nobel Prize: A Discovery Approach to Human

Greatness

70% 30%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

This course adopts a special teaching method in which

the students will be asked to take active roles in

deciding whom to teach and what to learn. They will be

guided through a series of well-structured activities that

are designed to select, extract and assemble knowledge

from the existing “knowledge-base”. In keeping with

the humanistic nature of the Nobel Prizes, the

knowledge-base our students will draw from is not

made of words or books or websites, but of people

themselves.

GE2333 The Science of Cosmetics 70% 30%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

What is beauty

The science of sensation and perception

The structure of human tissue and hair

Chemistry of important components in cosmetics

(e.g. solvents, surfactants, fragrances, antioxidants,

emollients, emulsifiers, humectants, etc.)

Making your own cosmetics

(Experiment 1: Gloss Lipstick)


(Experiment 2: Hair Cream)


(Experiment 3: Moisturizing Serum)


(Experiment 4: Sun Block)

Selected topic by guest lecturer

Group presentation


65

*Course

-work

*Exam

GE2334 Science Versus Crime 70% 30%

Prerequisite: Nil

Precursor: Nil

Forensics

Crime scene

CSI, Chain-of-custody

Contamination

Pollution

Environment

Explosives

Counter-terrorism

Firearms

Fingerprint

Counterfeit

Narcotics

Dangerous Drugs

Documents

Accuracy

Ethics

Honesty

Dishonesty

Criminal

Identification

Identity

Individualization

Analysis

DNA

Presumptive tests

Matching

Note: Any update of course information will be available on homepage of CHEM.

Appendix I : Major

&

Appendix II : Recommended Study Plan

Appendix I - 1

BSc in Chemistry

For Students admitted to the major in 2019/20 (Normative 4-year Degree)

1. Gateway Education Requirements (30 credit units)

University Requirements (Required Courses) (9 credit units): Students must satisfy the following requirements

before graduation.

GE English (6 credit units)

Course

Code


Units

Sem Remarks (e.g. College Accreditation, or

Exemption requirements, etc.)

GE1401 University English B1 3 A/B

GE2401 English for Science B2 3 A/B

Students who are required to take English for Academic Purposes 1 & 2 (EL0200A and EL0200B) must successfully

complete 6 credit units before studying GE1401 and GE2401. Students have achieved a B grade or above in their overall

course result for EL0200A will be permitted to exit the programme at this point and proceed to the GE English courses.

Chinese Civilisation – History and Philosophy (3 credit units)

Course

Code


Units

Sem Remarks (e.g. College Accreditation, or

Exemption requirements, etc.)

GE1501 Chinese Civilisation – History and

Philosophy

B1 3 B

Students scoring below Level 4 in HKDSE Chinese Language, or below Grade D in HKALE AS-level Chinese Language and

Culture are also required to take a 3-credit unit Chinese course (CHIN1001).

Distributional Requirements (12 credit units)

Students are required to take a minimum of 3 credit units from each of the three areas below:

Area 1 : Arts and Humanities

Area 2 : Study of Societies, Social and Business Organisations

Area 3 : Science and Technology

College/School-specified courses for fulfilling the Gateway Education requirement (9 credit units)

Course

Code


Units

Remarks

MA1200 /

MA1300

Calculus and Basic Linear Algebra I/

Enhanced Calculus and Linear Algebra I

B1 3

MA1201 /

MA1301

Calculus and Basic Linear Algebra II/

Enhanced Calculus and Linear Algebra II

B1 3

CS1102 /

CS1302

Introduction to Computer Studies/

Introduction to Computer Programming*

B1 3 (*not offered in 2019/20)

Appendix I

Appendix I - 2

2. College Requirement (6 credit units)

Course

Code


Units

Sem Remarks (e.g. College Accreditation,

or Exemption requirements, etc.)

Science (6 credit units)

Choose two from the following three subject areas:

Physics

PHY1201 General Physics I B1 3 A/B

Chemistry

BCH1100 Chemistry B1 3 A/B

Biology

BCH1200 Discovery in Biology B1 3 A/B

Note : HKDSE students admitted without high school Physics will be required to take PHY1200 Foundation Physics

(a non-credit bearing course in fundamental Physics).

3. Major Requirement (66 credit units)

Major Required Courses (35 credit units)

Students must take ALL the required courses in the following list.

Course

Code


Units

Sem Remarks (e.g. College Accreditation,

or Exemption requirements, etc.)


Engineering

B2 3 A

BCH2004 Principles of Analytical Chemistry B2 4 B

BCH2006 Principles of Inorganic Chemistry B2 4 A

BCH2007 Principles of Organic Chemistry B2 4 A

BCH2008 Principles of Physical Chemistry B2 4 B

BCH3014 Inorganic Chemistry B3 4 A

BCH3015 Organic Chemistry B3 4 B

BCH3016 Physical Chemistry B3 4 B

BCH3027 Analytical Chemistry B3 4 A

Major Elective Courses (31 credit units)

Choose electives from both Group A and Group B.

Group A (at least 3 credit units or above)

Course

Code


Units

Sem Remarks (e.g. College

Accreditation, or Exemption

requirements, etc.)


Biology/Chemistry/Environmental

Sciences

B3/B4 1-4 A/B Exclusive from Group B,

i.e. students can choose this course in

either Group A or Group B.

BCH4036 Project B4 6 A&B

Appendix I - 3

FS4002 or

FS4005

Industrial Attachment Scheme

Overseas Internship Scheme

B3 3 Summer

Note:

Students who have completed exchange studies with credit transfer are considered as having fulfilled Group A requirement.

Group B

Course

Code


Units

Sem Remarks (e.g. College

Accreditation, or Exemption

requirements, etc.)

CS2204 Fundamentals of Internet Applications

Development

B2 3 A

CS2360 Java Programming B2 3 A

BCH2003 Biochemistry B2 3 B BMS2004 Biochemistry is an

equivalent course offered to students

from 2017/18.

BCH2005 Principles of Environmental Chemistry B2 4 A

BCH3038 Environmental Sampling and Risk

Assessment

B3 4 A


Biology/Chemistry/Environmental

Sciences

B3/B4 1-4 A/B Exclusive from Group A,

i.e. students can choose this course in

either Group A or Group B.

BCH3081 Chemical Biology of DNA and RNA B3 3 A


Applications

B3 3 A

BCH4021 Environmental Pollution B4 4 A

BCH4022 Environmental Toxicology B4 4 A

BCH4037 Seminar Series B4 3 A&B

BMS4101 Analytical Biochemistry B4 3 B Not offered in 2019/20.

#Please note Sem/Year offer

2019/20 2020/21 2021/22 2022/23

BCH3052# Chemistry Beyond the Molecule:


B3 3 B Not offered B Not offered

BCH3053# Computational Chemistry B3 3 B Not offered B Not offered

BCH3055# Green Chemistry B3 3 Not offered B Not offered B

BCH3083# Cosmetic Chemistry B3 3 B Not offered B Not offered

BCH4029# Advanced Analytical Chemistry B4 4 Not offered Cancelled Not offered To be

confirmed

BCH4030# Advanced Inorganic Chemistry B4 4 Not offered B Not offered B

BCH4031# Advanced Organic Chemistry B4 4 Not offered B Not offered B

BCH4033# Industrial Chemistry B4 4 A Not offered A Not offered

BCH4034# Environmental Control and Waste

Treatment

B4 4 B Not offered To be

confirmed

Not offered

BCH4035# Environmental Measurements B4 4 Not offered To be

confirmed

Not offered To be

confirmed

BCH4041# Selected Topics in Chemistry B4 4 Not offered A Not offered A

BCH4043# Food Chemistry B4 3 A Not offered A Not offered

Appendix I - 4

BCH4045# Medicinal Chemistry B4 3 B Not offered B Not offered

BCH4051# Forensic Chemistry B4 3 Not offered A Not offered A

BCH4054# Chemical Bonding and Molecular

Spectroscopy

B4 3 B Not offered B Not offered

BCH4084# Crystallography/Solid-state Inorganic

Chemistry

B4 4 A Not offered A Not offered

BCH4085# Testing and Certification Sciences B4 4 B Not offered B Not offered

BMS4106# Pharmaceutical Biotechnology

B4 3 Not offered B Not offered B

MA2008# Mathematical and Statistical

Laboratory

(Note: Not offered to Year 2 students

of normative 4-year degree and Year 1

students of Advanced Standing I.)

B2 3 Not offered To be

confirmed

Not offered To be

confirmed

4. Minor (Optional)

A minor consists of a structured group of courses that focus on a particular academic discipline, allowing students

to develop some depth of understanding in a subject area or topic of professional interest. A minor requires 15-18

credit units. The credit units earned to fulfill the minor requirement cannot be used towards meeting the

requirement for another major and/ or minor taken by the student.

5. Free Electives

After fulfilling the credit unit requirements for the GE, Major, and Minor (optional), students may choose free

electives, and must do so if their cumulative credit load is below 120 credit units, the minimum required for

graduation.

Appendix II

BSc in Chemistry

Recommended Study Plan

(For Normative 4-year Degree)

Year 1

Semesters A and B CUs

Gateway Education – University Requirements 9

College/School-specified courses 9

College Requirement 6

Gateway Education Distributional Requirements

Year 2

Semester A CUs Semester B CUs

BCH2006 Principles of Inorganic Chemistry 4 BCH2004 Principles of Analytical Chemistry 4

BCH2007 Principles of Organic Chemistry 4 BCH2008 Principles of Physical Chemistry 4


Engineering

3 GE1401 + University English 3

GE2401 + English for Science 3 GE1501# + Chinese Civilisation – History and

Philosophy

3

Gateway Education Distributional Requirements Gateway Education Distributional Requirements

Major Elective Major Elective

Free Elective Free Elective

Year 3


BCH3014 Inorganic Chemistry 4 BCH3015 Organic Chemistry 4

BCH3027 Analytical Chemistry 4 BCH3016 Physical Chemistry 4




Year 4





Remarks:

Students scoring below Level 4 in HKDSE English Language or Grade D in HKALE AS-level Use of

English or students who do not possess an equivalent qualification are required to successfully complete

the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses (EL0200A (3 credit units) and EL0200B (3 credit

units)) offered by the English Language Centre (ELC) before they can advance to the GE English

courses. Students who have achieved a grade B or above in their overall course results for EL0200A will

be permitted to exit the programme at this point. They will achieve 3 credit units and also be considered

to have satisfied the pre-requisite for entry to the GE English courses.

# Students scoring below Level 4 in HKDSE Chinese Language, or below Grade D in HKALE AS-level

Chinese Language and Culture will be required to successfully complete a Chinese course (totaling 3

credit units) offered by the School of Continuing and Professional Education (SCOPE) before they can

advance to the GE Chinese course.

+ Students under the normative 4-year degree are recommended to take these courses in their Year 1

studies.

Note:

1. In addition to the Major Required Courses, all students must complete the GE English courses of 6

credit units (i.e. GE1401 and GE2401), and 3 credit units of GE1501 Chinese Civilisation – History

and Philosophy. Therefore, students are advised to register in these courses as soon as possible. 2. Normal load per semester is 16 credit units. If students wish to study more than 18 credit units, prior

approval from the Department is required.

Appendix II

For details, please refer to Appendix I - 1