• To encourage the development of a broad foundation in Chemistry. One that stresses fundamental chemical principles built through a combination of scientific reasoning and problem solving, and how these principles apply to everyday life.
• To provide students with the skills that they need to succeed in graduate programs, professional school or chemistry related careers.
• To expose students to a wide range of experimental techniques and analytical instrumentation.

Upon completion of a bachelor's degree in chemistry, Lehman College graduates will be able to:

1. Recognize the nature of matter and its transformation from one form into another.
2. Represent chemical substances using formulas, chemical reactions using chemical equations and consider possible reaction mechanisms.
3. Use the principles of thermodynamics to explain the behavior of chemical systems.
4. Integrate mathematics and physics knowledge in solving complex chemical problems using equations that may contain unknown variables.
5. Recognize the underlying chemical principles of life and apply these to biological systems.
6. Collect measurable chemical data in a laboratory setting.
7. Assess the accuracy and precision of measurements using mathematical and statistical analysis.
8. Represent, analyze and interpret complex and integrated chemical data.
9. Effectively convey chemical knowledge in both written and oral form.
10. Collaborate effectively as part of a group to solve chemical problems, engage in conversations about chemistry and value other people’s opinions.
11. Be aware of the ethical principles and professional conduct associated with chemical research and professional positions.