Introductory Chemistry Program
Students who have earned AP credit for Chemistry 115 may begin their study of chemistry with either Chemistry 201 or 215. Other students should begin with either Chemistry 110 or 115. Chemistry 110 is designed for those students who have not completed at least one year of high school chemistry, or who have taken high school chemistry but need a more thorough introduction to the subject. Chemistry 115 is recommended for students who have a good background from high school chemistry.
Major Requirements
Prospective majors are encouraged to discuss their interest and course planning with a faculty member as soon as they begin considering a chemistry major. The prerequisites for advanced courses require careful planning to obtain a feasible schedule. Required courses for the chemistry major are the following:
1. For Class of 2014:
a. Chemistry courses: 201 (115 is prerequisite for this course), 202, 215, 351, 352, 361, 371, 391, and 401; one additonal 300- or 400-level course, excluding 306
b. Supporting and prerequisite courses: Mathematics 140 (137) or 160 (135), Physics 220 or 230
c. Attendance at 10 sessions of the chemistry colloquium during junior and senior years.
2. For Class of 2015 and later:
a. Chemistry courses: 201 (115 is prerequisite for this course), 202, 215, 261, 351, 352, 371, 391, and 401; one additonal 300- or 400-level course, excluding 306
b. Supporting and prerequisite courses: Mathematics 140 (137) or 160 (135), Physics 220 or 230
c. Attendance at 10 sessions of the chemistry colloquium during junior and senior years.
American Chemical Society Undergraduate Chemistry Program
The American Chemical Society recommends a specific program for all chemistry majors who plan to study chemistry in graduate school or to seek employment as professional chemists. The program includes general chemistry, foundation courses, in-depth courses, and experiences in the laboratory and research. Completion of the American Chemical Society program requires fulfillment of the basic major as well as a research experience. The research experience may be satisfied through either a summer of research after the junior year or by completion of Chemistry 496. Students who fulfill this requirement through summer research must submit a written report to the department chair; others, to their adviser. Students may use Chemistry 496 or 497 to satisfy the elective requirement (1.a. or 2.a.) of the basic major. Students pursuing the American Chemical Society degree also are strongly encouraged to take Mathematics 150 and 235.
Minor Requirements
The minor consists of Chemistry 115, 201, 202, 215, and two additional courses numbered above 215. Only one of these two additional courses may be fulfilled with a research credit. In addition, students must attend at least six sessions of chemistry colloquium during their junior and senior years. At least five courses counted toward the minor must be taken at Davidson. None of the courses counted toward the minor may be taken Pass/Fail.