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Process for declaring a major, minor, DMP, or ACS Certification in Chemistry
The process for declaring a major in chemistry is easy. There are no prerequisites that need to be completed prior to declaring your major in chemistry. There is no “applying” or “pre-declaring” to be a chemistry major. There is no application period. You can declare a major in chemistry at any time.
- Use the Declaration of Major online form. (Here's a cheat sheet for how to use DocuSign)
- Review the courses that you still need to complete for the degree program you wish to pursue and come up with a plan of how to complete all the required courses. The degree programs and their requirements are on the left hand side of this webpage. Handouts are available outside room 413 in the Chemistry Building.
- When filling out the Declaration of Major form, be specific with the intended major (BA Chemistry, BS Chemistry, BS Chem with Specialization xxx, etc.). For declaring a minor in chemistry, simply put Chemistry Minor. Do not just put Chemistry.
- You do not need to list courses already completed. You only need to list those currently enrolled in and still need to take for the major. You do not need to list disciplines or general area requirements
- Double up courses in the same sequence for each line. For example, put CHEM 3410, 3420 Physical Chemistry QT & Thermo in the same row. Same for the labs, research, etc.
- Indicate Cindy Knight (csk3a) as the contact person.
- Make a list of any questions you may have.
- Email Cindy Knight with any questions you have and send her your form. She will sign it and assign you an advisor.
***Note that most of our degree programs have options for physics. The 1425 sequence is calculus based; The 2010 sequence is algebra based. We, along with grad/med schools, accept both. It's whatever you are most comfortable with.
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B.A. in Chemistry
The Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry (B.A.) is a flexible program designed to prepare the student for further study in a wide range of fields. With a minimum number of required courses, the chemistry B.A. permits the student to design an undergraduate program uniquely suited to individual needs. Keep in mind that the degree program outlines found here, in our handouts, and on the Undergraduate Record are to be used as a guide. There is flexibility with completing the requirements as long as the prerequisites are satisfied.
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B.S. Chemistry
The Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (B.S.) is a pre-professional degree designed for students who plan to become chemists, either by going to graduate school or by working in the chemical industry. The B.S. program emphasizes intensive study in the sciences. Keep in mind that the degree program outlines found here, in our handouts, and on the Undergraduate Record are to be used as a guide. There is flexibility with completing the requirements as long as the prerequisites are satisfied.
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B.S. Specializations (Biochemistry, Chemical Physics, Environmental Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Education)
Biochemistry
Caters to students having a strong interest in biology and biological chemistry by incorporating biologically-related lecture and laboratory courses. Many students in this program plan to attend medical or dental school, but a significant fraction pursues graduate study in chemistry, biochemistry, environmental science, or related areas. Keep in mind that the degree program outlines found here, in our handouts, and on the Undergraduate Record are to be used as a guide. There is flexibility with completing the requirements as long as the prerequisites are satisfied.
Chemical Physics
For the student who wants chemistry with a strong physics orientation. This degree can be certified by the American Chemical Society (if specific requirements are satisfied). Keep in mind that the degree program outlines found here, in our handouts, and on the Undergraduate Record are to be used as a guide. There is flexibility with completing the requirements as long as the prerequisites are satisfied.
Environmental Chemistry
For the student who wants chemistry with a strong environmental science orientation. This degree can be certified by the American Chemical Society (if specific requirements are satisfied). Keep in mind that the degree program outlines found here, in our handouts, and on the Undergraduate Record are to be used as a guide. There is flexibility with completing the requirements as long as the prerequisites are satisfied.
Materials Science
For the student who wants chemistry with a strong material science orientation. This degree can be certified by the American Chemical Society (if specific requirements are satisfied). Keep in mind that the degree program outlines found here, in our handouts, and on the Undergraduate Record are to be used as a guide. There is flexibility with completing the requirements as long as the prerequisites are satisfied.
Chemical Education
For students who intend to teach chemistry/science K-12. Students apply for admission into the Master of Teaching program. For more information on the on the Curry School program, contact Professor Frackson Mumba. Keep in mind that the degree program outlines found here, in our handouts, and on the Undergraduate Record are to be used as a guide. There is flexibility with completing the requirements as long as the prerequisites are satisfied.
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B.A./M.S. in Chemistry ("3+1" Degree Option)
Students seeking this degree option will complete their bachelor’s degree in three years and then enter a one-year master’s degree program. This option is not for all students.
Keep in mind that the degree program outlines found here, in our handouts, and on the Undergraduate Record are to be used as a guide. There is flexibility with completing the requirements as long as the prerequisites are satisfied.
Be advised that if you are double majoring, which ever Declaration of Major form is submitted first, will be your first major. Regardless of whether or not you mark the box at the top indicating otherwise.
Roadmap with links to the syllabus for each course
If you wish to petition to substitute a required course with a different one, please fill out this form, take it (along with a copy of your unofficial transcript) to Cindy Knight (CHM 413). She will present your request to the Undergraduate Advising Committee. You will be emailed once a decision has been reached.