Key facts
UNE unit code: CHEM204
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
Organic chemistry offers limitless possibility for discovery, with applications ranging from biomedical engineering to clean energy.
This unit introduces you to the spectroscopic methods used to unravel the structures of organic compounds.
You will learn about proton nuclear magnetic resonance, uv-visible and infrared spectroscopies, and the structure, properties and selected syntheses of functionalised aromatic compounds (particularly those displaying biological activity) with lab exercises designed to extend your technical skills.
Exploring the role of compounds in biology, other topics include heterocyclic aromatic compounds, the structure and properties of DNA bases and the function of DNA, and other biologically important substances such as amino acids and carbohydrates.
You will also examine stereochemistry of aliphatic compounds, synthesis and reactivity of selected multifunctional compounds (with a focus on conjugated dienes) and dicarbonyl compounds.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
| Start | Finish | Duration | Attendance | Offerings | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TBA | TBA | 4 days | Mandatory Intensive School | Trimester 1, Online | The intensive school is mandatory for online students only. Students must attend the Mandatory Intensive School which is held in Armidale. |
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- discuss, using a broad and coherent theoretical and technical knowledge, the structure, reactivity and biological roles of conjugated systems, aromatic compounds, heterocycles, carbohydrates and amino acids;
- use well developed cognitive, technical and communication skills to relate the scientific principles behind organic synthesis and laboratory techniques to a range of practical experiments;
- describe configurations and conformations using Newman and Fischer projections and apply knowledge and skills to designate the stereochemistry of compounds containing two or more stereocentres;
- apply technical knowledge, cognitive skills and problem solving skills to predict reaction products, identify unknown compounds from spectroscopic data and relate spectroscopic data to known structures; and
- apply knowledge and skills to demonstrate autonomy, well-developed judgement and responsibility towards problem solving processes, arguments, critical and creative thinking, while working individually or as part of a team.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 | Yes | 7.5% | All offerings | Assignment requires multiple choice, short answers, structure/ mechanisms and/or calculations. |
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 7.5% | All offerings | Assignment requires multiple choice, short answers, structure/ mechanisms and/or calculations. |
| Assessment 3 | Yes | 10% | All offerings | Assignment requires multiple choice, short answers, structure/ mechanisms and/or calculations. |
| Assessment 4 | Yes | 5% | All offerings | Assignment requires multiple choice, short answers, structure/ mechanisms and/or calculations. |
| Assessment 5 - Practicals - Assurance Task | Yes | 30% | All offerings | This is a Hurdle Task. Seven (7) laboratory experiments; including oral and written assessments. Students will be assessed on their laboratory skills and their demonstrated ability to connect theoretical concepts with laboratory practice. Students will need to demonstrate professional conduct in the laboratory, including the the ability to work safely, collegially, and productively in a shared setting. Assessment may also include data analysis, laboratory proficiency, reporting of results, and teamwork. |
| Final Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 40% | All offerings | Hurdle Task. |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Organic Chemistry
ISBN: 9781305080485
McMurry, J., Brooks/Cole 9th ed. 2015
Text refers to: All offerings
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026
Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026
Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)
Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
Stay connected
Join our mailing list for updates and helpful tips to support your study plans. You can unsubscribe at any time.
- •Course updates and important changes as they happen
- •Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
- •Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
- •Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire
Ready to stay in the loop?
GET IN TOUCH
Why study with us?
UNE’s flexibility and support made the transition smooth and helped me find a great balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. It was the perfect place to study education while staying true to my rural roots.
What happens next?
Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.
2026 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.
