Chemistry for Non-Majors

Many fields are so strongly based upon chemical principles that extensive knowledge of chemistry is essential. These fields include physics, environmental science, biology, geology, microbiology, biochemistry, medicine, and pharmacy, and various fields of engineering.

The table below lists the minimum chemistry course sequences required by specific programs. Sequences are structured so that students acquire more specialized knowledge as they progress.

Students who are not majoring in physical science or engineering but would like a general treatment of the concepts of chemistry and the role and significance of chemistry in the modern world should take CHEM 110. This course is also appropriate for some pre-nursing programs, and satisfies both the laboratory science and the physical science requirement for the College's B.A. program.

This table lists the minimum chemistry course sequences required by specific programs. Sequences are structured so that students acquire more specialized knowledge as they progress.
ProgramCourses
Aerospace, Architectural, Civil, Electrical and Mechanical Engineering:CHEM 150
Biochemistry: aCHEM 170 or 130, 175 or 135, 330, 331, 335, 336, 510, or 530, 400 and 401
Biology and Human Biology:CHEM 130, 135, 330, 331
Chemical Engineering:aCHEM 170 or 130, 175 or 135, 330b, 331, 525, up to 3 hours of courses 500 and above
Clinical Laboratory Science:CHEM 130, 135, 330b, 331
Environmental Science optionsCHEM 130, 135, 330, 331
Geology:CHEM 130, 135, for the B.S.; CHEM 130 for the B.A.
Microbiology:CHEM 130, 135, 330, 331, 335, 336
Petroleum Engineering:CHEM 170 or 130, 175 or 135
Physics:CHEM 130 or CHEM 170
Pre-Dental and Pre-Optometry:CHEM 130, 135, 330, 331
Pre-Medical: aCHEM 130, 135, 330, 331, 335, 336
Pre-Nursing, Respiratory Therapy:CHEM 110
Pre-Pharmacy: aCHEM 130, 135, 330, 331, 335, 336
Secondary Education:CHEM 130, 135, 330, 331, 400, 401

a Students who would benefit particularly from the honors chemistry sequence (beginning with CHEM 190 & 195)

b Students who do not plan to take CHEM 335 should take 310 rather than 330 to fulfill their Organic Chemistry requirement.

c Some dental and optometry schools require one year of Organic Chemistry (330, 331, 335, 336).