Chemistry, BA
The different disciplines of modern physical and biological sciences have much to offer each other through advances in technology. Aside from basic research, society continually generates fundamental scientific and technological challenges such as the need for new sources of energy, new synthetic and biotechnologies; new materials exhibiting unusual catalytic, metallic, or electrolytic properties; and developments in laser, computer, and communications technology. We consider these within the province of a unified field of molecular sciences, in which chemistry plays the central role.
Chemistry is concerned with the study of matter and the changes matter can undergo. The chemistry program provides a basic foundation for career opportunities in chemical research and teaching, in scientific communication and information transfer, and in the health professions. Students who want to prepare for advanced study in chemistry or allied fields where research experience is advantageous should complete the chemistry honors program.
The minimum total course units for graduation in this major is 36. Double majors may entail more course units.
Those considering the Chemistry major should consult with the undergraduate chairman as soon as possible, preferably in the freshman year, especially if you have AP credit in Science and Mathematics from high school.
For more information: http://www.chem.upenn.edu/
For information about the General Education requirements, please visit the College of Arts & Sciences Curriculum page.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| College General Education Requirements and Free Electives | ||
| Foundational Approaches + Sectors1 + Free Electives | 19 | |
| Major Requirements | ||
| Introductory Sequences 2 | ||
| General Chemistry: | ||
| CHEM 101 | General Chemistry I | 1 |
| or CHEM 115 | Honors Chemistry I | |
| CHEM 102 | General Chemistry II | 1 |
| or CHEM 116 | Honors Chemistry II | |
| General Chemistry Laboratories: | ||
| CHEM 053 & CHEM 054 | General Chemistry Laboratory I and General Chemistry Laboratory II | 1 |
| Organic Chemistry and Laboratories: | ||
| CHEM 241 | Principles of Organic Chemistry | 1 |
| CHEM 242 | Principles of Organic Chemistry II | 1 |
| or CHEM 243 | Organic Chemistry II: Principles of Org Chem with applications in Chem Biology | |
| Select one of the following lab sequences: | 1 | |
| Experimental Organic Chemistry | ||
| OR | ||
| Experimental Organic Chemistry Lab I and Experimental Organic Chemistry Laboratory II | ||
| Calculus: | ||
| MATH 104 | Calculus, Part I | 1 |
| MATH 114 | Calculus, Part II | 1 |
| or MATH 116 | Honors Calculus | |
| Physics: | ||
| PHYS 150 | Principles of Physics I: Mechanics and Wave Motion | 1.5 |
| PHYS 151 | Principles of Physics II: Electromagnetism and Radiation | 1.5 |
| Additional Chemistry Requirements | ||
| Physical Chemistry and Laboratories: | ||
| CHEM 221 | Physical Chemistry I 3 | 1 |
| CHEM 222 | Physical Chemistry II 4 | 1 |
| CHEM 223 | Experimental Physical Chemistry I 4 | 1 |
| Biological Chemistry: | ||
| CHEM 251 | Principles of Biological Chemistry 5 | 1 |
| Inorganic Chemistry: | ||
| CHEM 261 | Inorganic Chemistry I 3 | 1 |
| One Advanced Laboratory: | ||
| CHEM 246 | Advanced Synthesis and Spectroscopy Laboratory 6 | 1 |
| Total Course Units | 36 | |
| 1 | You may count no more than one course toward both a Major and a Sector requirement. For Exceptions, check the Policy Statement. |
| 2 | Majors should complete by the end of the sophomore year. |
| 3 | Offered Fall only. |
| 4 | Offered Spring only. |
| 5 | Must be taken after CHEM 241 Principles of Organic Chemistry. |
| 6 | Offered Fall only and must be taken concurrently with or after CHEM 261 Inorganic Chemistry I. |
Honors
Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 in all Math and Science courses.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| One advanced course (400 level or above) | 1 | |
| CHEM 399 | Independent Research | 1 |
| CHEM 399 | Independent Research | 1 |
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2021 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.