Introductory Organic Chemistry I Course | Syllabus, Instructors, Details
Course Details
| Exam Registration | 430 |
|---|---|
| Course Status | Ongoing |
| Course Type | Core |
| Language | English |
| Duration | 8 weeks |
| Categories | Chemistry |
| Credit Points | 2 |
| Level | Undergraduate |
| Start Date | 16 Feb 2026 |
| End Date | 10 Apr 2026 |
| Enrollment Ends | 16 Feb 2026 |
| Exam Registration Ends | 27 Feb 2026 |
| Exam Date | 17 Apr 2026 IST |
| NCrF Level | 4.5 — 8.0 |
Master the Fundamentals: Your Guide to Introductory Organic Chemistry I
Welcome to the fascinating world of organic chemistry, the study of carbon-based compounds that form the very foundation of life and modern materials. From the DNA in your cells to the pharmaceuticals that cure diseases, organic chemistry is omnipresent. This detailed guide explores the Introductory Organic Chemistry I course, a structured 8-week program designed to build a robust understanding of core principles for undergraduate and postgraduate students.
About the Course: Unveiling the Molecular World
This course delves into the essential principles that govern organic molecules. You will move beyond memorization to understand the "why" behind chemical behavior. The curriculum is meticulously crafted to cover:
- Structure & Bonding: How atoms connect to form molecules.
- Physical & Chemical Properties: Predicting how compounds will behave.
- Fundamental Concepts: Mastering tools like resonance and conformational analysis.
- Stereochemistry: Understanding the 3D shape of molecules and its critical importance.
- Functional Group Reactivity: A detailed study of alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, alkyl halides, alcohols, and aromatics.
In short, this course provides the molecular lens through which to view and understand the chemistry in the world around you.
Learn from Distinguished Instructors
The course is taught by two accomplished faculty members from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Pune, bringing a wealth of academic and research experience.
Prof. Neeraja Dashaputre
Prof. Dashaputre holds a doctoral degree in organic chemistry from the University of Maryland, USA. With prior faculty experience at Claremont University and over five years of teaching in India and the USA, she brings a global perspective to the classroom. Her research interest in pedagogy development for teaching chemistry ensures the course content is presented in an engaging and effective manner.
Prof. Harinath Chakrapani
Prof. Chakrapani is an Associate Professor at IISER Pune with a Ph.D. from Duke University, USA, and post-doctoral experience at the National Cancer Institute. His active research in organic chemistry and chemical biology, focusing on oxidative stress and antibiotic resistance, connects fundamental concepts to cutting-edge scientific applications. With over eight years of teaching experience at IISER, he expertly guides students through complex topics.
Who Should Enroll?
- Intended Audience: First-year B.Sc. Chemistry undergraduates, M.Sc. Chemistry students, and doctoral students seeking to solidify their foundational knowledge.
- Prerequisites: A basic understanding of general or physical chemistry concepts is recommended.
- Industry Support: This course is highly relevant and valued by companies in the pharmaceutical sector, where a strong grasp of organic chemistry is essential.
8-Week Course Layout: A Structured Learning Journey
| Week | Topic | Key Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Electronic Structure and Bonding | Atomic orbitals, hybridization, covalent bonding, molecular geometry. |
| Week 2 | Alkanes and Conformational Analysis | Structure of alkanes, Newman projections, stability of conformers. |
| Week 3 | Stereochemistry | Chirality, enantiomers, diastereomers, R/S notation, optical activity. |
| Week 4 | Acids and Bases | Brønsted-Lowry and Lewis theories, pKa, factors affecting acidity. |
| Week 5 | Alkenes: Structure and Reactivity | Pi bonds, electrophilic addition reactions (e.g., with HX, H2O). |
| Week 6 | Alkynes: Structure and Reactivity | Triple bonds, acidity of terminal alkynes, addition reactions. |
| Week 7 | Alkyl Halides: Structure and Reactivity | Nucleophilic substitution (SN1/SN2) and elimination (E1/E2) reactions. |
| Week 8 | Alcohols, Ethers, Epoxides & Aromaticity | Properties and reactions of O-containing compounds; introduction to benzene and aromaticity. |
Recommended Textbooks for Deeper Learning
To complement the course material, the following authoritative textbooks are highly recommended:
- Clayden, Greeves, & Warren: Organic Chemistry (2nd Ed.) - A modern and student-friendly approach.
- Morrison & Boyd: Organic Chemistry (6th Ed.) - A classic text known for its clear explanations.
- Bruice & Prasad: Essential Organic Chemistry (1st Ed.) - Focuses on core concepts and fundamental understanding.
Embark on this 8-week journey to build an unshakable foundation in organic chemistry. With expert instruction, a logical progression of topics, and a focus on real-world relevance, Introductory Organic Chemistry I is your gateway to mastering the language of molecules.
Enroll Now →