Chemistry Major with ACS Certification

The chemistry major with ACS certification requires a minimum of 10.5 units in chemistry and is endorsed by the committee on professional training of the American Chemical Society (ACS); satisfactory completion of this course of study entitles the student to certification by the society. Those contemplating graduate study in chemistry or careers in industrial research are encouraged to opt for this plan.

The  ACS-certified degree requires: 

  • General Chemistry (CHEM 103 & 104)
  • Quantitative Analysis (CHEM 205)
  • Organic Chemistry (CHEM 221 & 222)
  • Quantum Chemistry (CHEM 341)
  • Thermodynamics and Kinetics (CHEM 342)
  • Inorganic Chemistry (CHEM 303)
  • Senior project.  The senior project must involve original research (CHEM 489 and CHEM 490)
  • Biochemistry one of the following: Biochemistry (309), Biochemistry Research Methods (394), Synthesis of Pharmaceutical Substances (324)
  • 1 other in-depth course in either: Advanced Organic Chemistry I and II (351, 354), Instrumental Analysis (452), Environmental Chemistry (306), Synthesis of Pharmaceutical Substances (324), Advanced Biochemistry (415)
  • 4 Advanced laboratory courses
    Two from Physical chemistry lab (353), Advanced Inorganic Chemistry lab (451), Biochemistry Research Methods (394)
    Two additional laboratory courses from those listed above, or Advanced Organic Chemistry I and II (351, 354), Instrumental Analysis (452), Environmental Chemistry (306)

Choice courses can double count.

Two semesters each of calculus (Math 135, 136) and physics (calculus-based Physics 151,152) are also required.

Note that to fulfill prerequisites for moving from Chemistry 103 to 104 a grade of 1.75 is required. To advance from Chemistry 104 to 221 and 205 and from 221 to 222 requires a grade of 2.0 or higher.

Sample Course Schedule for Chemistry Major with ACS Certifcation