The study course provides basic knowledge in the field of organic chemistry. It covers the structure of carbon-based compounds, bond formation principles and mechanisms of the most common reactions. The study course includes the following topics: main classes of the organic compounds, principles of nomenclature, methods of preparation, chemical and physical properties and practical application directions. Introduction to natural compounds is given, discussing carbohydrates and amino acids and their role in living organisms. To emphasise the role of organic chemistry in the economy, insight in the most important industrial production processes is given. Selected topics of special importance for Latvian producers, wood and food chemistry, are included. In addition to the theoretical part, laboratory works are included to give basic skills in organic synthesis, compound isolation, purification and characterization.