Academic Advising Resource Center
Chemistry and Biochemistry
Why take courses in Chemistry or Biochemistry?
From public health and drug discovery to agriculture and nutrition, chemistry touches everything. It is about synthesis, where creation and discovery go hand in hand, leading to breakthroughs in medicine, food, materials, energy and sustainability.
What kinds of questions does this field explore?
- What are the foundations of this “central science”?
- How can we synthesize organic and inorganic compounds?
- What are the mechanics of action of modern pesticides and can they be used ethically?
What advice would you give students interested in taking courses in Chemistry or Biochemistry?
There are courses suitable for any student interested in this field of study, regardless of previous experience.
Taking Courses
Entrance survey
All students interested in general chemistry must take an entrance survey available on Blackboard. This survey will:
- Serve as an entrance exam for students who believe they are ready to take CHEM 102.
- Provide additional support for students who may need additional algebra practice and preparation.
Students who have earned an A-levels score of A*, A, or B do not receive transfer credit for CHEM 101, but may begin college chemistry with CHEM 102.
Students with exceptional high school preparation in mathematics and chemistry, as well as either a 5 on the AP Chemistry Examination, or a 6 or 7 on the HL-IB Chemistry Examination may petition the department chair to enroll in CHEM 205 (Fall and Spring).
Courses for non-majors or general interest
- Students interested in chemistry, but who do not wish to pursue a major or minor are able to take classes designed for non-majors such as CHEM 051 (Chemistry of the Environment) or CHEM 057 (Drug Development).
Getting started in the major
The normal general chemistry sequence is CHEM 101 and CHEM 102. All students are eligible to enroll in CHEM 101, regardless of prior study in chemistry.
Advanced Placement Credit
Students who have earned AP Chemistry (score of 4 or 5), or HL-IB Chemistry (score of 6 or 7) are eligible to receive transfer credit equivalent to CHEM 101 (one full course) toward major requirements. Refer to the AP/IB chart for complete information about AP test scores.
Majoring in Chemistry or Biochemistry
Provided are examples of how a student could distribute courses required, first, two examples focusing on the Chemistry major, then two focusing on the Biochemistry major, over four years. These majors are eligible for the Bachelor of Science. See the catalog for additional details about major requirements.
Sample Four-Year Plans
| Chemistry | Fall | Spring |
|---|---|---|
| Y1 | CHEM 101 | CHEM 102 |
| Y2 | CHEM 205 MATH 133 | CHEM 254 MATH 134 |
| Y3 | CHEM 211 PHYS 110 | CHEM 213 PHYS 111 |
| Y4 | CHEM 349 | CHEM 339 CHEM 361 |
| Chemistry | Fall | Spring |
|---|---|---|
| Y1 | CHEM 101 MATH 133 | CHEM 102 MATH 134 |
| Y2 | CHEM 205 PHYS 110 | CHEM 254 PHYS 111 |
| Y3 | CHEM 211 | CHEM 339 CHEM 213 |
| Y4 | CHEM 349 CHEM 327 | CHEM 325 CHEM 341 |
| Biochemistry | Fall | Spring |
|---|---|---|
| Y1 | CHEM 101 | CHEM 102 BIOL 100 |
| Y2 | CHEM 205 MATH 133 | CHEM 254 MATH 134 |
| Y3 | CHEM 211 BIOL 223/224 | CHEM 213 |
| Y4 | CHEM 374 PHYS 110 | CHEM 339 PHYS 111 |
| Biochemistry | Fall | Spring |
|---|---|---|
| Y1 | CHEM 101 MATH 133 | CHEM 102 BIOL 100 MATH 134 |
| Y2 | CHEM 205 PHYS 110 | CHEM 254 BIOL 223/224 PHYS 111 |
| Y3 | CHEM 374 CHEM 211 | CHEM 213 BIOL 310 |
| Y4 | CHEM 349 | CHEM 361 |
Related Areas of Study
Biology; Neuroscience; Physics; Geosciences; Archaeological Studies; Environmental Studies.
Learn More
Chemistry and Biochemistry Major Requirements
Chemistry and Biochemistry Department