Chemical Physics - Where to Start?

Course planning advice here is limited to majors. For a full description of degree requirements, please see this overview of the Academic Program and refer to the Catalog for details and official rules. Any discrepancy between the Course Planning Pages and the Catalog will be resolved in favor of the Catalog.

Where should I start if I am just sampling this subject as a non-major?

The Chemical Physics major serves students whose interests overlap with both Chemistry (CHEM) and Physics (PHYS). Students should choose an appropriate introductory course in either Chemistry or Physics. Please consult those course planning pages for appropriate suggestions.

Where should I start if I might use this as part of a major or as a potential major?

First Year students should complete the following two 2-course sequences through coursework or advanced placement credits:

Chemistry I (CHEM 110) followed by Chemistry II (CHEM 120);
Calculus I (MATH 130) followed by Calculus II (MATH 140).

Where should I start if I have some experience in this discipline before college?

For AP or IB credits – please refer to Advanced Placement Credits or International Baccalaureate Credits in the College Catalog.
If a student has placement credits for the full first year of chemistry, mathematics, or physics, please consult with the appropriate Department Chair or member of that department about where to begin.

When should I declare a major?

All students must declare a major by March 1st of their sophomore year.