Chemistry Info for First-Years

Chemistry is both a basic science, fundamental to an understanding of the world we live in, and a practical science with an enormous number and variety of important applications. Knowledge of chemistry is fundamental to an understanding of biology and biochemistry and of certain aspects of materials science/nanotechnology, astronomy, physics, and engineering. 

If you have questions about the chemistry concentration, please contact the Co-Director of Undergraduate Studies in Chemistry, Dr. Gregg Tucci.

Freshmen who are interested in chemistry typically enroll in two of the following courses: Life and Physical Sciences A, Life Sciences 1a, Physical Sciences 1, Physical Sciences 10, or Physical Sciences 11 (or satisfactory placement out of the requirement).

Students with an exceptionally strong chemistry background may begin with Physical Sciences 10 in the fall followed by Chemistry 20 or Physical Sciences 11 in the spring.  Although freshmen may take either the Chem 17/27 organic chemistry sequence, which begins in the fall term, or the Chem 20/30 sequence, which begins in the spring term, Chemistry 20 is designed primarily for freshmen with an interest in Chemistry. Students considering enrolling in organic chemistry as a freshman are strongly encouraged to consult with the Co-Director of Undergraduate Studies in Chemistry, Dr. Gregg Tucci.

Freshmen interested in studying chemistry should also enroll in a math course according to their placement.