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The elements of a science course designed for nonscience majors is discussed. The course consists of four modules focusing on physics, chemistry, geosciences and biology, with emphasis given on the relationships between these disciplines and how these are applied by professionals. Students were also asked to keep written journals about each class to encourage critical thinking about the concepts taken up.

The Meyer-Clarke synthetic method was used in the German process for large scale production of mustard gas during World War I, which clearly shows the historical connection of synthesis of mustard gas.

Undergraduate chemistry students often are not happy about taking the subject. Two techniques can be helpful to their teachers: exam repechage, from French for 'second chance,' and the grouped laboratory essay, in which students learn from writing. Conceptual learning is important in both and both increase opportunities for student-faculty interaction to enhance the apprenticeship approach. However both are time-consuming for faculty. The exam approach involves letting a student re-solve within one week after the in-class exam any problem done improperly and to discuss the corrected solution with the instructor.