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Undergraduate Program FAQ

  1. What courses should I take in high school to be prepared to major in chemistry?
  2. What types of chemistry degrees are offered?
  3. What are the requirements for a BS in chemistry?
  4. How does the pre-health track differ from the other chemistry tracks?
  5. What is the biochemistry track, and how is it different from the regular chemistry track?
  6. How does the ACS degree differ from the regular BS in chemistry?
  7. What are the requirements for the honors degree in chemistry?
  8. What are the requirements for a minor in chemistry?
  9. I hope to go to medical school, which track is best for me?
  10. I'm interested in a career in chemistry, which track is best for me?
  11. I'm interested in forensics/environmental science/toxicology/biotechnology. Does the Chemistry Department offer classes or degrees in these areas?
  12. What is the difference between chemistry and chemical engineering?
  13. What scholarships are available for chemistry majors?
  14. How do I declare that I want to be a chemistry major?
  15. When should I declare as a chemistry major?
  16. Do I have to have a minor? If so, what minor should I take?
  17. How do I get advised before registration?
  18. What are the prerequisites for CH 101?
  19. What are the differences between CH 101/102 and CH 117/118?
  20. Do I have to take the lab course at the same time as I take the lecture?
  21. I have AP credit that would allow me to place out of CH 101 and 102. Can I take organic chemistry as a freshman?
  22. When should I take the organic chemistry lab (CH 237)?
  23. Which courses are offered year round, and which ones are only offered at specific times?
  24. When should I take my math and physics courses?
  25. I'm considering taking some courses at a community college over the summer, is it advisable to take chemistry courses at a community college? What about calculus or physics?
  26. I got a D in a chemistry course, do I need to retake and get a higher grade before going on to the next course (i.e. to take 102 after getting a D in 101)?
  27. Can I get all of my writing course requirements through chemistry courses?
  28. What student organizations are there for chemistry majors?
  29. Is there a chemistry honorary organization?
  30. How can I get involved in undergraduate research?
  31. Are there any opportunities for foreign study as a chemistry major?
  32. What can I do with a chemistry major once I graduate?
  33. What do UA chemistry graduates do after graduation?
  34. In addition to my chemistry major, what else should I do to prepare to go to graduate school in chemistry or a related field?
  35. I want to get a job as a BS chemist after graduation. How do I go about finding a job?

Can't find your question above, contact Dr. Kevin Shaughnessy , Director of Undergraduate Studies.

1. What courses should I take in high school to be prepared to major in chemistry?

Students interested in majoring in chemistry, or any science, should have a strong foundation in math and science in high school. Generally students who take a college prep course in high school that includes 4 years of math and science will be adequately prepared for college chemistry. A good foundation in math that includes algebra, geometry, and trigonometry is critical for success in college chemistry. While taking calculus in high school is helpful, it is not necessary to succeed in freshman chemistry. The most important math skills for potential majors are the ability to set up algebraic equations from word problems, be able to manipulate exponentials, and know the basics of plotting data. Students should take as much high school chemistry as possible to help ease the transition to college chemistry. High school physics and biology are also helpful. Top

2. What types of chemistry degrees are offered?

The chemistry department offers several degree tracks for students with different interests.There are basically three types of BS chemistry majors: the regular BS track, the ACS-certifed BS degree, and the pre-health BS degree. In addition, there is a biochemistry concentration available with the regular BS track. Finally, students can earn a honors degree in chemistry. The differences between these various options are described in questions 3-6. A full description of the requirements can be found in the undergraduate catalog. Top

3. What are the requirements for a BS in chemistry?

The required chemistry courses for all chemistry degree tracks are described on the undergraduate majors page as well as in the undergraduate catalog. The requirements have changed slightly in the 2006-2008 catalog, so the answer will depend on whether you are working under the 2006 catalog (students who enrolled for the first time in fall 2006 or later) or an earlier catalog (students who first enrolled prior to fall 2006).

Pre-2006 catalog students must take: general chemistry (101/102 or 117/118), quantitative analysis (223), organic chemistry (231, 232, 237, 338), physical chemistry (341, 342, 348), and one 400-level elective that requires CH341 as a prerequisite.

Students using the 2006 catalog must take: general chemistry (101/102 or 117/118), quantitative analysis (223), organic chemistry (231, 232, 237, 338), physical chemistry (341, 342, 348), inorganic chemistry (413) or instrumental analysis (424), and one 400-level elective that requires CH341 as a prerequisite.

In addition, students must take 3 semesters of calculus (through 227), 2 semesters of physics (105/106), and fulfill the A&S general education requirements. Top

4. How does the pre-health track differ from the other chemistry tracks?

The pre-health track is equivalent to the BA degrees offered at many schools. It offers an increased focus on biology compared to the regular degree, while the mathematical requirements are less (1 semester) than the traditional BS degree. This degree satisfies all requirements for health professional programs (medical, dental, veterinary, etc.). Due to the less rigorous math and chemistry requirements of this degree, students may not be qualified for chemistry graduate programs or BS chemistry jobs should they not gain acceptance to a health professional program. The pre-health track is suggested for students who are very sure they wish to purse a health professional career and feel confident that they will be accepted to these programs upon graduation. The regular BS track will provide a wider range of options upon graduation for students who are less sure of their future career plans. Top

5. What is the biochemistry track, and how is it different from the regular chemistry track?

Biochemistry is the study of the chemistry by which all living things operate. The biochemistry track has the same requirements as the BS chemistry track until the senior year. Biochemistry majors take two semesters of biochemistry (461/462) as seniors as well as the biochemistry lab (463, 2006 catalog only). Top

6. How does the ACS degree differ from the regular BS in chemistry?

The American Chemical Society (ACS)-certified degree provides a more intensive study of chemistry than the regular BS track. The ACS degree is designed for students with a strong interest in chemistry who are planning to pursue a career in chemistry and/or going to graduate school in chemistry. The ACS degree differs from the regular BS track in the number of advanced chemistry courses required. The ACS degree requires students take biochemistry (461), inorganic chemistry (413), and instrumental analysis (424), and 6 more hours of 400 level chemistry courses, which should include introduction to research (497/498/499). Because the ACS degree requires a larger number of hours in the major than normal, a minor is not required with this major. Top

7. What are the requirements for the honors degree in chemistry?

Requirements for the bachelor of science degree with honors in chemistry are (1) completion of course requirements for the B.S. degree with a major in chemistry; (2) maintenance of a 3.3 GPA in chemistry courses, with no more than one "C," and of a 3.0 GPA in all coursework; (3) participation in CH 491:492, CH 493:493, honors research seminars, and research courses; (4) submission of an acceptable senior thesis based on research conducted under the supervision of a chemistry department faculty member; and (5) submission of scores on the Graduate Record Examination or other appropriate examinations prior to graduation. Students are invited to apply for admission to the honors program in chemistry on the basis of performance in introductory chemistry courses. Interested students should contact Dr. Szulczewski, Director of Undergraduate Studies, for more details. Top

8. What are the requirements for a minor in chemistry?

The minor in chemistry requires 24 hours. Students should take freshman (101/102) and organic chemistry (231, 232, 237), quantitative analysis (223), and elementary physical chemistry (340/343). Top

9. I hope to go to medical school, which track is best for me?

Any of the chemistry major tracks will provide adequate preparation for medical school. Chemistry majors from UA have typically been very successful in being accepted to medical school. The pre-health track was designed for students interested in medical school and fulfills all medical school requirements. Students in the regular BS or ACS tracks will need to take additional biology courses to satisfy medical school requirements. Students in the BS track may want to minor in biology as preparation for medical school. Because the regular BS track is more rigorous than the pre-health track (additional calculus, and more difficult physics and chemistry), medical school admissions committees may rank students with the standard BS degree more highly than those in the pre-health track provided they have similar GPA and MCAT scores. Top

10. I'm interested in a career in chemistry, which track is best for me?

Students who may consider going to graduate school in chemistry or taking a job as a chemist after completing their BS degree should pursue either the regular BS track (chemistry or biochemistry) or the ACS-certified track. Both of these degrees will provide students with the intensive chemistry knowledge expected by chemistry graduate schools and employers. Students interested in careers in chemistry should generally not follow the pre-health track. Since this track does not include advanced courses in inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry, students with the pre-health major will not have all of the necessary prerequisites for gradaute school and will be less marketable as chemists on the job market. Top

11. I'm interested in forensics/environmental science/toxicology/biotechnology. Does the Chemistry Department offer classes or degrees in these areas?

No, the chemistry department does not offer specific training in these fields. A degree in chemistry will provide excellent training for students interested in exploring careers in these and many other fields related to chemistry, however. Fields such as forensic science rely heavily on basic chemical concepts that are learned in the course of the chemistry curriculum. Students with chemistry degrees are well qualified to take jobs in these fields, or may pursue advanced study in forensics, environmental science, or other areas upon completing their degree. Top

12. What is the difference between chemistry and chemical engineering?

There is some overlap in the training of chemists and chemical engineers, but they are typically involved in different aspects of the chemical enterprise. Chemists typically are interested in how processes work and developing new understanding of chemical reactions and the structure of chemical materials. In industry, chemists typically work in developing new or improved materials. Chemical engineers tend to focus on the process by which chemical materials are produced. In industry, chemical engineers typically focus on developing efficient processes for manufacturing chemicals. Thus, engineers tend to focus on optimizing processes, while chemists work to develop new processes. Top

13. What scholarships are available for chemistry majors?

The Jerome and Dolly A. Newmark scholarship is available for students who are, or intend to be, full-time chemistry majors and demonstrate financial need, although not necessarily as defined by federal guidelines. More information can be obtained from the Director of Undergraduate Studies. Chemistry majors may also compete for other scholarships offered at the college and university level. Top

14. How do I declare that I want to be a chemistry major?

Students wishing to declare a chemistry major or minor should obtain a major declaration from. These are available from the chemistry department office (206 Shelby Hall) or the A&S Dean's Office (200 Clark Hall). After filling out the form, it should be taken to Dr. Greg Szulczewski, Director of Undergraduate Studies, to be signed. Top

15. When should I declare as a chemistry major?

There is no official deadline for declaring your major, although college guidelines suggest that this should be done by the junior year. We would encourage you to officially declare you major as early as possible. By declaring yourself as a chemistry major, we can ensure that you are advised by chemistry faculty members. Chemistry advisors are very familiar with the requirements for the various tracks of the chemistry degree, and will ensure that you are making appropriate progress toward graduation. In addition, chemistry faculty advisors can give advice regarding other aspects of being a chemistry major, such as undergraduate research and career options. Top

16. Do I have to have a minor? If so, what minor should I take?

Yes, all students in the College of Arts & Sciences must have a minor. The only exception is the ACS-certified degree in chemistry, which does not require a minor due to the increased credit hours required for the major. Students may choose to minor in any discipline offered by A&S as well as specified areas in other colleges, such as Business and Engineering. There is no right minor for a chemistry major. You should choose a field that interests you, and that will provide useful knowledge and skills for your future career. Top

17. How do I get advised before registration?

All students must meet with an advisor prior to registration for each term. All declared chemistry majors will be assigned a faculty advisor by the Director of Undergraduate Studies. Prior to the registration period each semester, you will be contacted by Email with instructions for meeting with your advisor. Typically, sign up sheets will be placed in the department office (206 Shelby) allowing you to schedule a meeting time with your assigned advisor. All students should pick up a copy of the registration worksheet from the chemistry office. Prior to meeting with your advisor, determine which courses you think you would like to take for the next semester. If you are sure what you want/need to take, you may fill out the registration work sheet. When you meet with your advisor, he or she will go over your progress and planned schedule to ensure that you are making adequate progress. Once you and your advisor are happy with your schedule, they will sign the registration sheet. Once this has been done, the registration hold will be removed and you will be able to register for classes on your assigned day. Students who have not declared as a chemistry major, but would like to be advised in the chemistry department, should contact Dr. Greg Szulczewski to arrange for an advising appointment. Top

18. What are the prerequisites for CH 101?

Placement in CH 101 is based on the math placement test given to all incoming freshman. Students should be eligible for placement in Math 112 in order to be eligible to take CH 101. Top

19. What are the differences between CH 101/102 and CH 117/118?

CH 117/118 is the honors section of freshman chemistry. It is a smaller section of freshman chemistry that provides a more intensive discussion of basic chemical principles than is possible in CH 101/102. This sequence is designed for students with a strong background in math and chemistry. This course is not recommended for students who have not taken high school chemistry. Students must be members of the University Honors Program or be eligible to take Math 125 (Calculus I) in order to be placed in this course. Top

20. Do I have to take the lab course at the same time as I take the lecture?

It depends on which course. In the freshman level courses (101-118), the lab is an integrated part of the course and must be taken at the same time as the lecture. Quantitative Analysis (CH 223) is a combined lecture lab course and both components must be taken at the same time. The organic chemistry labs (CH 237 and 338) and physical chemistry lab (CH 343 or 348) are separate courses from the corresponding lectures. The CH 237 lab should ideally be taken at the same time as the second organic chemistry lecture course (CH 232), although it is possible to take it later. Similarly, the physical chemistry labs should be taken in the same semester as the lecture course. Since both the lecture and lab are only offered once a year, it is not advisable to wait and take the lab after completing the lecture, as you're likely to forget many of the important concepts you learned in physical chemistry lecture. Top

21. I have AP credit that would allow me to place out of CH 101 and 102. Can I take organic chemistry as a freshman?

The answer to this question is very dependant upon the student. It is possible to place out of one or possibly two semesters of freshman chemistry. In the case that a student has placed out of both semesters of freshman chemistry, they would be eligible to begin taking sophomore level courses, such as organic chemistry (CH 231) and quantitative analysis (CH 223), in their first semester. Based on our experiences with students in this situation; however, we would strongly recommend that students at least take one semester of freshman chemistry (102 or 118) before attempting to take sophomore level courses. We have found that even very strong students who attempt to go directly into 200-level courses struggle due to the significant jump in expectations from high school, particularly when dealing with the other stresses of adapting to college life. Students are generally much more successful if they first take a semester of freshman chemistry to adapt to college level chemistry courses before attempting the more challenging 200-level courses. If you are unsure with which course to start, contact Dr. Shaughnessy, Director of Undergraduate Studies, for further advice. Top

22. When should I take the organic chemistry lab (CH 237)?

The organic chemistry lab is a separate course from the lecture. It is designed to be taken during the second semester of the organic lecture sequence (CH 232). This arrangement is different from schools where students take one credit hour of organic lab with each semester of the lecture. We offer a single two lab course that corresponds with the second semester of the lecture course. While it is possible for students to take CH 237 after completing CH 232, we don't recommend taking a large break between completing CH 232 and taking CH 237, as you are likely to forget many of the important organic chemistry concepts learned in CH 232. In addition, for chemistry majors it is necessary to complete CH 237 before taking the second lab course (CH 338), which is only offered in the fall semester. Top

23. Which courses are offered year round, and which ones are only offered at specific times?

Most 100- and 200-level courses (101, 102, 231, 232, 223, and 237) are offered in both fall and spring semesters as well as in the summer. The exceptions are CH 117 and 118, which are only offered in fall and spring respectively, CH 104 (fall and summer), and CH 105 (spring and summer). All 300- and 400-level courses are only offered once and year. It is important that you be aware of these limitations, as missing an upper level course will require you waiting a full year before it can be taken again. The semester when courses are typically offered can be found in the undergraduate catalog or on MyBama. Top

24. When should I take my math and physics courses?

Students in the regular or ACS degree tracks will ideally complete their calculus (through 227) and physics (105/106) by the end of their sophomore year, so that they are prepared to take physical chemistry in their junior year. Students should begin taking Math 125 as soon as they are eligible, ideally in their first semester. Physics 105 has a prerequisite of Math 125. Students must complete Math 126 and Physics 106 prior to beginning the physical chemistry sequence. Students in the pre-health track should take Math 125 as soon as possible. Top

25. I'm considering taking some courses at a community college over the summer, is it advisable to take chemistry courses at a community college? What about calculus or physics?

It is possible to take general and organic chemistry courses at community colleges. Students should ensure that the course is comparable to the UA version and will be accepted as transfer credit. While it is possible to take introductory chemistry courses away from UA, the department faculty strongly encourage chemistry majors to complete all chemistry courses at UA, if possible. Experience has shown that students who complete their freshmen chemistry courses at community colleges and then begin taking organic chemistry at UA struggle in many cases. By taking all chemistry courses at UA, you ensure that you have the comprehensive background necessary to give you the best chance of succeeding in upper level courses. We would also encourage students to take math and physics courses at UA, but it is probably less important than taking your chemistry at UA. Top

26. I got a D in a chemistry course, do I need to retake and get a higher grade before going on to the next course (i.e. to take 102 after getting a D in 101)?

While a grade of D (D-) is technically considered passing, students who earn a grade lower than C- should seriously consider retaking a course before attempting the second semester of a two semester course sequence (i.e. CH 102, CH 232, CH 342). Students who earn lower than a C- will be unlikely to have the necessary knowledge of the subject to succeed in the second semester of the course. The same consideration applies in going from one sequence to the next (i.e. from 102 to 231). While success in general chemistry (101/102) is not a perfect predictor of success in organic chemistry, experience shows that students who earn low grades in freshman chemistry likely will struggle in organic. Students should also be aware that a GPA of 2.0 in their major is required for graduation. Retaking a course will not remove it from your GPA calculation. Top

27. Can I get all of my writing course requirements through chemistry courses?

The chemistry department offers the following courses that satisfy the writing requirements for graduation: Organic Lab II (CH 338, 2 hours), Physical Chemistry Lab (CH 348, 2 hours), Instrumental Analysis (CH 424, 4 hours), Biochemistry Lab (CH 463, 3 hours). The college requires a total of 6 writing credits for graduation. Students in the regular and ACS chemistry tracks are required to take CH 338 and CH 348. They can fulfill the writing requirement if they also take CH 463 or 424. Student in the pre-health track may only take CH 338 and CH 463, which gives them 5 hours of writing courses. Students following this track will need to take an additional writing course outside of chemistry. Since writing courses must be 300- or 400-level courses, it is advisable to plan ahead so that necessary prerequisites can be taken. It is generally best to take the writing course in your minor, if they are available. Top

28. What student organizations are there for chemistry majors?

The chemistry department hosts three student organization for undergraduate students. The Student Affiliates of the American Chemical Society (SAACS) is open to all students interested in chemistry. This organization hosts external speakers to discuss careers in chemistry, attending graduate school, and other topics of interest to chemists. SAACS also is involved with activities sponsored by the Alabama section of the American Chemical Society. The other active organization in the department is the National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers (NOBCChE). This organization seeks to foster professional development and provide opportunities for underrepresented groups in science and engineering. Gamma Sigma Epsilon is a national honorary organization for chemistry majors (see #29). Top

29. Is there a chemistry honorary organization?

Yes, UA hosts the Delta Beta Chapter of Gamma Sigma Epsilon, a national honorary society for chemistry and chemical engineering majors and chemistry minors. Students who have completed, or are taking, CH 232 and have an overall GPA of at least 3.0 and a chemistry GPA of at least 3.5 are eligible for membership. New members are typically inducted in the spring semester. For more information, contact the GSE faculty advisor, Dr. Kevin Shaughnessy. Top

30. How can I get involved in undergraduate research?

All chemistry majors, as well as interested students from other majors, are strongly encouraged to be involved in undergraduate research during their time at UA. Undergraduate research allows students to be involved in the cutting edge of chemical research and learn how science is truly practiced. The skills obtained doing undergraduate research will prove valuable no matter what your ultimate career might entail. Students interested in doing undergraduate research should explore the research interests of the faculty. Once they have identified one or more faculty members with whom they would be interested in doing research, they should contact the faculty directly to determine if a position is available. Students typically do undergraduate research for class credit (CH 397/398/399 or 497/498/499). In some cases, faculty members may have funds available to pay students for doing research, particularly during the summer. The research course is treated like a lab, thus 3 hours of work/week would correspond to 1 credit hour. It is generally advisable to take at least 2 credit hours (6 hrs/week) in order to have time to make sufficient progress. The amount of work and time schedule can be worked out between the faculty and the student. Top

31. Are there any opportunities for foreign study as a chemistry major?

There are programs that will allow students to spend a summer working in research labs in foreign countries. The department has relationships with German and Japanese universities through which several students have received summer research fellowships in recent years. Students interested in these opportunities should speak with Dr. Arduengo. Top

32. What can I do with a chemistry major once I graduate?

The chemistry degree is a very versatile tool that opens up a wide range of career opportunities. Most chemistry majors will choose to pursue careers either in the medical fields, the chemical industry, or in academics. Most chemists work in the chemical industry where they to develop new chemical materials upon which the modern world relies. Students with chemistry degrees are also in great demand as high school teachers, or can go to graduate school to prepare for a career as a college faculty member. There are a wide variety of opportunities beyond the traditional chemist jobs, however. Students with chemistry degrees can pursue careers in forensics, toxicology, environmental science, patent law, science writing, museum curation, science librarians, and many more. Top

33. What do UA chemistry graduates do after graduation?

Most UA chemistry majors attend pursue advanced study, either in health professional programs (medical, dental, pharmacy, veterinary) or graduate programs in chemistry or related fields, including education. A smaller group of students go directly into the workforce, either has high school teachers or working as industrial chemists. Still other students pursue non-traditional careers for chemists, such as patent law or scientific writing. You can see where our graduates have gone by looking at the alumni page. UA alumni are doctors, dentists, college faculty, high school teachers, industrial chemists, lawyers. Top

34. In addition to my chemistry major, what else should I do to prepare to go to graduate school in chemistry or a related field?

If you are interested in going to graduate school in chemistry or a related scientific discipline, the most important thing you can do besides being successful in your classes is become involved early in undergraduate research. Graduate schools strongly value students who have spent one or more years working on a research project with a faculty member. In addition, this experience gives you a very good idea of what graduate school will be like. Toward the end of your junior year and definitely before you senior year you should take the GRE exam, which most graduate schools require. You should begin applying for graduate schools in the fall of your senior year. You should seek advice from department faculty about what graduate schools to which you should apply. Top

35. I want to get a job as a BS chemist after graduation. How do I go about finding a job?

If you are interested in getting a job as a chemist after graduation, you should begin looking no later than the beginning of your last semester. Check with the Career Center for tools and leads on possible jobs. A few companies looking for chemists will interview on campus. The department maintains a listing of job opportunities for BS graduates on our web site, so you should check this frequently to see if new positions are advertised. If you want to stay in Alabama, you'll find most jobs for BS chemists are in Huntsville, Birmingham, and Mobile. Look in newspapers from these cities for job listings. If you are willing to look nationally for a job, consider job web sites, such as monster.com, as well as science specific job sites listed on the undergraduate job page. Also talk to faculty, as they may have connections to jobs that you haven't heard about. Top
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