Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

How do you get into Chemistry 1A?

There are two prerequisites for Chemistry, one involving mathematics and one involving basic chemistry. The math prerequisite is equivalent to intermediate algebra or two years of high school algebra. You may either complete Chemistry 31 or demonstrate sufficient knowledge of chemistry on the Chemistry Placement Exam. This exam may be taken at any time in the Testing Center. No appointment is necessary, but you should plan to arrive at the testing center at the beginning of the testing period. Testing schedules are posted in the testing center which is Building 1000.

Who should take Chemistry 31?

Chemistry 31 is designed for students who have not taken Chemistry in high school, who took Chemistry a long time ago, or who feel that they need a stronger background in order to be successful in General Chemistry.

Chemistry 31 is a prep course for Chemistry 1A. It is not a general education course, nor is it a course for students preparing for associate degrees or certificates in allied health or technological fields.

Chemistry 31 should be taken by chemistry and biology majors, pre-med students, and pre-engineering students who are not eligible for Chemistry 1A.

Who should take Chemistry 30A?

Chemistry 30A should not be taken by students who will be taking Chemistry 1A, nor should it be taken by pre-med students or students who wish to become dentists. It should be taken by students who wish to take a laboratory course in science to satisfy general education requirements, by students preparing for degrees or certificates in allied health fields, and by students preparing for some technological programs.

If I'm planning to become a doctor or a dentist, which courses should I take?

You will need to take Chemistry 1A, 1B, 12A, and 12B. You may wish to take Chemistry 31 in order to prepare yourself to do well in General Chemistry.

If I'm planning to become a nurse, which courses should I take?

You will need to take Chemistry 30A and probably Chemistry 30B. Some nursing programs do not require Chemistry 30B. However, it is the course that covers biological chemistry and provides a basis for understanding physiology.

If I'm planning to become an engineer, which courses should I take?

You will need to take Chemistry 1A for certain. Most engineers are also required to take Chemistry 1B, the exception being civil engineers and some mechanical engineers. Check the requirements of the programs at all the transfer institutions that you think you may apply to. Chemical engineers are also required to complete Chemistry 12A and 12B. You may need to enroll in Chemistry 31 before tackling Chemistry 1A, depending upon your background.

If I'm planning to major in biology, which courses should I take?

You will need to take Chemistry 1A, 1B, 12A, and 12B. [Biology majors entering some environmental sciece programs are not required to take Organic Chemistry.] Nearly all transfer institutions recommend that you complete Chemistry 12B before transfer. You may need to enroll in Chemistry 31 before tackling Chemistry 1A, depending upon your background.

If your question is not answered here, please email Michael Ansell for an answer.