The instructor’s engaging and passionate teaching style was the highest ranked aspect of this course. Additional y, many students gave high marks to the amount of material covered over the semester and the chance to work on problem sets during class. The conceptual nature of the material received low marks from many students. Some recommendations for improvement included adding practice problems with solutions and including examples of more practical applications. Prospective students should take the course with this instructor as he was highly recommended. The material was difficult but interesting and enjoyable, students said.

The best aspects of this course included the class time devoted to homework discussions and the large amount of detail dedicated to spectroscopic methods. Students also appreciated the instructor’s ability to thoroughly explain concepts. Some students felt that there were too many reference books and that the instructor was, at times, difficult to understand, making some things more challenging for international students. Suggestions included making time for more in-class case study discussions and a longer allotment of time to complete the midterm (>50 min.) Prospective students should know that this course consists primarily of graduate students, but can be taken by undergraduates. Also, a good deal of time is required to successfully complete the homework, and a firm grasp on organic chemistry is extremely helpful, if not necessary.