Information and Policies
Introduction
The bachelor of science major program is designed for students who intend to pursue a professional career in chemistry. It is rigorous and broadly covers all chemistry subdisciplines.
Academic Advising for the Program
The Chemistry and Biochemistry Department advisors provide counsel to undergraduate students pursuing departmental majors. Students are encouraged to seek out advising and assistance in planning their academic careers to ensure completion of their major in a timely manner. For advising assistance, please contact Chemistry and Biochemistry Department advisors at chemistryadvising@ucsc.edu or visit the chemistry advising webpage. All students interested in the chemistry B.S. should read this catalog to learn more details about the major.
Program Learning Outcomes
Learning outcomes summarize the most important knowledge, skills, abilities, and attitudes that students are expected to develop throughout their studies.
Students graduating with a B.S. in chemistry should be able to:
-
demonstrate mastery of a broad set of chemical knowledge concerning the fundamentals in the basic areas of the discipline (organic, inorganic, analytical, physical, and biochemistry).
-
solve area-specific problems by identifying the essential parts of a problem, formulating a strategy for solving the problem, applying appropriate techniques to arrive at a solution, testing the correctness of the solution, and interpreting their results.
-
use modern library search tools (such as SciFinder, PubMed, or Web of Science) to locate and retrieve scientific information about a topic, chemical, chemical technique, or an issue relating to chemistry.
-
know and follow the proper procedures and regulations for safe handling and use of chemicals.
-
understand the objective of their chemical experiments, properly carry out the experiments, and appropriately record and analyze the results.
-
use computers in data acquisition and processing, and use available software as a tool in data analysis.
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use standard laboratory equipment, modern instrumentation, and classical techniques to carry out experiments.
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communicate the concepts and results of their laboratory experiments through effective writing and/or oral communication using the discipline standards for reporting and citation.
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collaborate effectively as part of a team to solve problems, debate different points of view, and interact productively with a diverse group of team members.
Getting Started in the Major: Frosh
This major is highly course intensive and sequential; students who intend to pursue this major must begin taking classes for the major in their first quarter at UC Santa Cruz.
Prospective chemistry majors should have a solid foundation in high school mathematics; familiarity with algebra, logarithms, trigonometry, and analytic geometry is particularly required. Incoming students in the chemistry major should complete the Math Placement process as early as possible, so that the placement is posted before enrollment begins. For more information, please review the Math Placement website.
Students taking chemistry at the University of California, Santa Cruz, begin with CHEM 3A, CHEM 3B, CHEM 3C with associated labs, CHEM 3BL and CHEM 3CL. Alternatively, students with an exceptionally strong background in high school chemistry, equivalent to AP chemistry, may begin with CHEM 4A and CHEM 4B with associated labs, CHEM 4AL and CHEM 4BL (Advanced General Chemistry: Molecular Structure and Reactivity—see the “Qualifying for the Advanced General Chemistry series” admission policy section below).
Previous to July 1, 2023, the General Chemistry series, offered by the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, was listed in the General Catalog as CHEM 1A, CHEM 1B and CHEM 1C, with associated laboratories CHEM 1M and CHEM 1N. As of academic year 2023-24, this series was replaced with two distinct series: CHEM 3A, CHEM 3B and CHEM 3C, with labs CHEM 3BL and CHEM 3CL, or CHEM 4A and CHEM 4B with labs CHEM 4AL and CHEM 4BL.
Qualifying for the Advanced General Chemistry series
CHEM 4 is an accelerated two-quarter series intended for students who enter UC Santa Cruz with excellent preparation in high school chemistry. Students in this series will learn fundamental concepts in chemistry at a faster pace than our traditional general chemistry series (CHEM 1 or CHEM 3), with emphasis on quantum theory, molecular structure, and chemical driving forces. Students with an exceptionally strong background in high school chemistry are especially encouraged to begin with CHEM 4A (Advanced General Chemistry: Molecular Structure and Reactivity) instead of CHEM 3A.
All students who want to enroll in the accelerated series must complete an online learning module and assessment administered by the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, regardless of high school AP scores. Once the online learning module and assessment is started (by completing the initial knowledge check), students will have six weeks to complete the online learning module and assessment and, once the module and assessment are completed students may request enrollment in CHEM 4A.. Students who complete the online learning module and assessment and submit their proof of completion by the established deadline are eligible to remain enrolled in CHEM 4A. Students can access the full CHEM 4A qualification instructions and the online learning module by joining this Canvas Class.
If you have questions about this process, please contact a Chemistry and Biochemistry Department advisor at chemistryadvising@ucsc.edu.
Transfer Information and Policy
General information about transferring to UC Santa Cruz can be found on the Transfer Preparation Advising website. Students planning to transfer to UC Santa Cruz from a California community college should reference assist.org to determine which courses are equivalent to required and recommended pre-transfer courses.
Transfer Admission Screening Policy
The following courses or their equivalents are required prior to transfer, by the end of the spring term for students planning to enter in the fall.
| | Either these courses | |
| CHEM 3A | General Chemistry | 5 |
| CHEM 3B | General Chemistry | 3 |
| CHEM 3C | General Chemistry | 3 |
| | or these courses | |
| CHEM 4A | Advanced General Chemistry: Molecular Structure and Reactivity | 5 |
| CHEM 4B | Advanced General Chemistry: Molecular Structure and Reactivity | 5 |
| | AND | |
| MATH 22 | Introduction to Calculus of Several Variables | 5 |
Plus one of the following options:
| | Either these courses | |
| MATH 11A | Calculus with Applications | 5 |
| MATH 11B | Calculus with Applications | 5 |
| | or these courses | |
| MATH 19A | Calculus for Science, Engineering, and Mathematics | 5 |
| MATH 19B | Calculus for Science, Engineering, and Mathematics | 5 |
Students must complete the above courses or their equivalents, with a grade of C or better, and have a cumulative GPA in these courses of 2.5 or greater.
Note for winter transfer students: CHEM 8A/CHEM 8L are additional pre-transfer requirements for students planning to enter UCSC in the winter. CHEM 8A/CHEM 8L are still recommended for fall transfer admits, as listed below.
Recommended pre-transfer courses
Completion of the following courses is highly recommended before the transfer to ensure timely graduation. Students who only complete the minimum required transfer coursework for the major prior to transfer will likely need more than two years to complete the chemistry B.S.
Prospective students are encouraged to prioritize required and recommended major preparation, and may additionally complete courses that articulate to UC Santa Cruz general education requirements as time allows.
For more information on qualifying for the major as a transfer applicant, see this Getting Started as a Transfer Student in Chemistry guide.
If transferring into CHEM BS with BIOC concentration add these as pre-transfer courses:
Getting Started in the Major: Transfer Students
Transfer students are strongly encouraged to meet with a Chemistry and Biochemistry Department advisor in their first quarter. For assistance with advising, please email chemistryadvising@ucsc.edu.
Transfer students entering at the junior level who have satisfied the screening requirements can declare their major any time after coming to UC Santa Cruz, but are required to be declared in a major by the declaration deadline in their second term at UCSC. Any student who fails to meet these requirements may file an appeal for admission to the major, but admission is not guaranteed.
Transfer students who are proposed in a different major (other than chemistry) require permission from the department to change into the major. Admission to the major is not guaranteed.
Major Qualification Policy and Declaration Process
Major Qualification
Students must complete each of the following qualification courses, or their equivalents, by their campus-established declaration deadline with a grade of C or better and with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.50 or greater:
| | Either these courses | |
| CHEM 3A | General Chemistry | 5 |
| CHEM 3B | General Chemistry | 3 |
| CHEM 3C | General Chemistry | 3 |
| | or these courses | |
| CHEM 4A | Advanced General Chemistry: Molecular Structure and Reactivity | 5 |
| CHEM 4B | Advanced General Chemistry: Molecular Structure and Reactivity | 5 |
Plus one of the following options:
| | Either these courses | |
| MATH 11A | Calculus with Applications | 5 |
| MATH 11B | Calculus with Applications | 5 |
| | or these courses | |
| MATH 19A | Calculus for Science, Engineering, and Mathematics | 5 |
| MATH 19B | Calculus for Science, Engineering, and Mathematics | 5 |
And one of the following options:
| | Either this course | |
| MATH 22 | Introduction to Calculus of Several Variables | 5 |
| | or this course | |
| MATH 23A | Vector Calculus | 5 |
| | or this course | |
| AM 30 | Multivariate Calculus for Engineers | 5 |
Determining qualification for the major
When pursuing major qualification, students should keep the following details in mind:
-
All courses must be taken for a letter grade. See the Letter Grade Policy below.
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For courses required to qualify for the major that have been satisfied with advanced placement (AP) credit based on an AP examination score (See Admissions AP Chart), students may substitute a grade of A for each course when calculating their GPA.
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UC Santa Cruz native students with two or more grades of NP, C-, D+, D, D-, or F in courses required to qualify for the major are not eligible to declare.
Transfer students should also consult the Transfer Information and Policy section above.
How to Declare a Major
Students may declare a major as early as they would like if they have decided which major to pursue and have satisfied prerequisites or qualification requirements for the major.
Per the UC Santa Cruz major declaration policy, students who enter UCSC as frosh are required to be formally declared in a major by the campus deadline in their 6th quarter and before enrolling in their third year (or equivalent). Upper-division junior transfer students are required to be declared in a major by the deadline in their second term at UC Santa Cruz.
Students should petition to declare a chemistry major once they have met all qualification criteria and have an official, signed, department-approved academic plan on file.
The Petition for Major/Minor declaration form can be accessed by going to MyUCSC and navigating to the Student Homepage and selecting the Undergraduate Student eForms tile > Petition for Major/Minor.
Students petitioning when the campus declaration deadline is imminent (i.e., in their 6th quarter, for students admitted as frosh, second quarter for junior transfer students), will either be approved, denied, or provided with conditions (e.g., completion of final qualification courses with certain grades), but will not be declared until all requirements have been met and satisfactory grades have been posted.
Each major/minor advising office has a process for declaring. For assistance with declaring the chemistry major, please contact chemistry and biochemistry advising at chemistryadvising@ucsc.edu.
Appeal Process
Students may appeal to the major either prior to or after submitting a petition to declare and being denied (in the latter case, appeals must be submitted within 15 days from the date the denial notification was sent). Within 15 days of receipt of the appeal being submitted, the department will notify the student and their affiliated college of the decision.
To appeal to declare a chemistry major, complete the Chemistry Major Appeal form via DocuSign.
To complete the major appeal form, you will need:
Additional instructions can be found in the form.
Note: The information you share in your appeal or with your advisors will be kept confidential and shared only with campus officials as required to serve you in an advising capacity or process your appeal. However, in limited circumstances, including those related to potential harm to yourself or others, sexual assault, and abuse, we may be required by law to report incidents you disclose to other need-to-know offices on campus such as the Title IX Office and/or University of California Police Department. If you are in need of support for any issues, please see the list of confidential and/or support resources.
Letter Grade Policy
All courses used to satisfy degree requirements of the major must be taken for a letter grade and earn a grade of C or higher.
Course Substitution Policy
At least half of the upper-division courses (CHEM 100–CHEM 199) required for any chemistry major must be taken through the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department at UC Santa Cruz, not as transfer credits from another department or institution. Students should contact the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department advising office before enrolling in any upper-division chemistry course at other institutions to verify articulation.
Independent Study Policy
Students may take up to 5 credits of individual studies coursework per quarter.
There are two different independent studies options in the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department: CHEM 199 and CHEM 195. CHEM 199 Independent Research is for any student working on an independent research project under the guidance of UC Santa Cruz faculty. Independent research can be taken for 5 credits (CHEM 199) or 2 credits (CHEM 199F). CHEM 195 Thesis Research is for students performing independent research under the guidance of UC Santa Cruz faculty AND who will complete a final thesis.
Throughout their undergraduate career at UC Santa Cruz, students may take up to 15 credits total of CHEM 199 (either 199 or 199F). For example, a student could take three quarters of CHEM 199, up to seven quarters of CHEM 199F, or some combination of CHEM 199 and CHEM 199F (so long as the total is not more than 15 credits).
Throughout their undergraduate career at UC Santa Cruz, students may take up to 15 credits total of CHEM 195. CHEM 195 credits can be taken in addition to up to 15 credits of CHEM 199/CHEM 199F. Note that there are three different CHEM 195 courses (CHEM 195A, CHEM 195B, and CHEM 195C) that should be taken in order. The expectation for CHEM 195 is that satisfactory completion of the course is contingent on the submission of a final thesis that meets the faculty sponsor's approval. If there is doubt that a thesis could be completed, CHEM 199 Independent Research is a more appropriate course.
Double Majors and Major/Minor Combinations Policy
Pursuing a double major that includes a chemistry major is a highly individual decision, and should be based on a student’s educational and career goals. Because the chemistry major itself is a rigorous, it should be noted that completing a double major involving chemistry is difficult (though possible).
To declare a double major program, a student must obtain an academic plan showing that they are able to complete both degrees within the maximum number of quarters of enrollment available at UC Santa Cruz. Therefore, the steps for a student to pursue chemistry as a second major are as follows:
-
The student must create and review a major academic plan for their first major and have it signed by the appropriate UC Santa Cruz major advisor.
-
The student must make an appointment with the chemistry major advisor and send the link to their signed academic plan to chemistryadvising@ucsc.edu.
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The chemistry major advisor will review the major academic plan and will add the chemistry major courses to the academic plan, as necessary, and if it is viable to do so per double unit counting, enrollment limitations, and time-to-degree guidelines.
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The chemistry major advisor will discuss the double major plan with the student during their scheduled appointment. If the plan is viable, it will be approved and signed by both the student and the chemistry major advisor.
-
Once the student has an approved and viable double major plan, the student must petition to declare chemistry as a second major using the Petition for Major/Minor form in MyUCSC.
Honors
Department honors in the majors are awarded to graduating students whose academic performance demonstrates excellence at a GPA of 3.5 or above in required major coursework. Department highest honors are awarded to those students whose performance demonstrates the highest level of excellence and results in a GPA of 3.8 or above in required major coursework.
Materials Fee
Chemistry students should be aware of the materials fee required for some courses. The fee is billed to the student’s account for specific laboratory materials purchased by the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department through the university. Students may incur additional expenses for individual supplies.
Program for Students of the Health Sciences
Students intending to enter medical, dental, or another health science professional school can satisfy entrance requirements with a major program in chemistry supplemented with further courses, especially in biology, as specified by the admissions requirements of the school where they intend to apply. Students are strongly encouraged to review the Pre-Health section of the Career Success website to review preparation recommendations, prerequisite and other information about professional health education programs (medical school, dental school, etc.), and more important information to assist in preparation for a career in health sciences.
Students are urged to contact Career Success for assistance with the application process.
American Chemical Society Certification
The American Chemical Society (ACS) recognizes certain undergraduate programs, including those of UC Santa Cruz, to be of such quality that they allow some graduates to become ACS members immediately upon graduation. Graduates must be individually certified to the ACS by the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department chair if they have satisfactorily completed an approved program of study. ACS certification standards are rigorous; a graduate who has met them carries a distinction that is well-recognized in the profession.
Broadly speaking, ACS certification requirements are satisfied by completing CHEM 122 as an elective and graduating with a chemistry B.S. (biochemistry concentration excluded). More information is available from the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department advisors.
General B.S. Degree
Course Requirements
The bachelor of science (B.S.) major program is designed for students who intend to pursue a professional career in chemistry. It is rigorous and broadly based. The course requirements for the B.S. major are as follows; please refer to each course description for a detailed listing of prerequisites.
Lower-Division Courses
General Chemistry:
| | Either these courses | |
| CHEM 3A | General Chemistry | 5 |
| CHEM 3B | General Chemistry | 3 |
| CHEM 3C | General Chemistry | 3 |
| CHEM 3BL | General Chemistry Lab | 2 |
| CHEM 3CL | General Chemistry Lab | 2 |
| | or these courses | |
| CHEM 4BL | Advanced General Chemistry Lab | 2 |
| CHEM 4A | Advanced General Chemistry: Molecular Structure and Reactivity | 5 |
| CHEM 4B | Advanced General Chemistry: Molecular Structure and Reactivity | 5 |
| CHEM 4AL | Advanced General Chemistry Lab | 2 |
Note: This requirement may also be satisfied with prior completion of CHEM 1A, CHEM 1B, CHEM 1C, CHEM 1M, and CHEM 1N or equivalent.
Previous to July 1, 2023, the General Chemistry series, offered by the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, was listed in the General Catalog as CHEM 1A, CHEM 1B and CHEM 1C, with associated laboratories CHEM 1M and CHEM 1N. As of academic year 2023-24, this series was replaced with two distinct series: CHEM 3A, CHEM 3B and CHEM 3C, with labs CHEM 3BL and CHEM 3CL, or CHEM 4A and CHEM 4B with labs CHEM 4AL and CHEM 4BL. Descriptions of these two series are given here.
Calculus:
Choose one of the following options:
| | Either these courses | |
| MATH 11A | Calculus with Applications | 5 |
| MATH 11B | Calculus with Applications | 5 |
| | or these courses | |
| MATH 19A | Calculus for Science, Engineering, and Mathematics | 5 |
| MATH 19B | Calculus for Science, Engineering, and Mathematics | 5 |
A student may combine the MATH 11 series with the MATH 19 series to complete this portion of the major requirement(s), (for example, a student can take and complete MATH 19A and then take and complete MATH 11B) but must follow the Mathematics Department’s Calculus Series Transition Policy.
Multivariable Calculus:
Choose one of the following options:
| | Either this course | |
| MATH 22 | Introduction to Calculus of Several Variables | 5 |
| | or these courses | |
| MATH 23A | Vector Calculus | 5 |
| MATH 23B | Vector Calculus | 5 |
| | or this course | |
| AM 30 | Multivariate Calculus for Engineers | 5 |
Advanced Mathematics:
Choose one of the following courses:
| AM 10 | Mathematical Methods for Engineers I | 5 |
| MATH 21 | Linear Algebra | 5 |
| MATH 24 | Ordinary Differential Equations | 5 |
Physics:
Choose one of the following options:
| | Either these courses | |
| PHYS 5A | Introduction to Physics I | 5 |
| PHYS 5B | Introduction to Physics II | 5 |
| PHYS 5C | Introduction to Physics III | 5 |
| PHYS 5L | Introduction to Physics I Laboratory | 1 |
| PHYS 5M | Introduction to Physics II Laboratory | 1 |
| PHYS 5N | Introduction to Physics Laboratory III | 1 |
| | or these courses | |
| PHYS 6A | Introductory Physics I | 5 |
| PHYS 6B | Introductory Physics II | 5 |
| PHYS 6C | Introductory Physics III | 5 |
| PHYS 6L | Introductory Physics I Laboratory | 1 |
| PHYS 6M | Introductory Physics II Laboratory | 1 |
| PHYS 6N | Introductory Physics III Laboratory | 1 |
A student may combine the PHYS 5 series with the PHYS 6 series to complete this portion of the major requirement(s), while following the Physics Transition policies.
Organic Chemistry:
By permission and invitation of the instructor, students may substitute CHEM 8M with CHEM 8N, Honors Organic Chemistry Lab. This course is designed to introduce the exceptional student to many of the techniques associated with organic chemistry while taking part in an active organic chemistry research experience.
Upper-Division Courses
Intermediate Organic Chemistry:
| CHEM 110 | Intermediate Organic Chemistry with Emphasis on Synthesis and Analytical Methods | 5 |
| CHEM 110L | Intermediate Organic Chemistry Laboratory | 2 |
By permission and invitation of the instructor, students may substitute CHEM 110L with CHEM 110N, Honors Organic Chemistry Lab. This course is designed to introduce the exceptional student to many of the techniques associated with organic chemistry while taking part in an active organic chemistry research experience.
Inorganic Chemistry:
Satisfies part of the Disciplinary Communication (DC) and Comprehensive requirements.
Biochemistry:
Students who plan to do advanced work in biochemistry and molecular biology should take the biochemistry and molecular biology (BIOC) 100ABC series. Completing the series will fulfill the requirement of CHEM 103 (Biochemistry) plus fulfill one elective. Students who have finished CHEM 103 can, with instructor permission, enroll in BIOC 100C without taking BIOC 100A and BIOC 100B.
Physical Chemistry:
One of the following laboratory courses:
| CHEM 146A | Advanced Laboratory in Organic Chemistry | 3 |
| CHEM 146B | Advanced Laboratory in Inorganic Chemistry | 3 |
| CHEM 146C | Advanced Laboratory in Physical Chemistry | 5 |
| CHEM 160L | Biochemistry Research Laboratory | 5 |
| CHEM 161L | Chemical Biology Research Laboratory | 5 |
Note: CHEM 160L requires completion of CHEM 160J and CHEM 160K as prerequisites, and CHEM 161L requires CHEM 161J and CHEM 161K as prerequisites.
Students currently conducting senior thesis research are strongly encouraged to choose an advanced laboratory in the CHEM 146 series that is outside their research area.
Electives
At least two from the following list:
| BIOC 100C | Biochemistry and Molecular Biology | 5 |
| CHEM 122 | Principles of Instrumental Analysis | 5 |
| CHEM 124 | Bioanalytical Chemistry | 4 |
| CHEM 143 | Organic Chemical Structure and Reactions | 5 |
| CHEM 144 | Catalysis In Organic Synthesis Using Metals and Metalloids Based Reagents | 5 |
| CHEM 151B | Chemistry of the Main Group Elements | 5 |
| CHEM 156C | Materials Chemistry | 5 |
| CHEM 169 | Chemistry and Biology of Drug Design and Discovery | 5 |
| CHEM 171 | Chemical Biology | 5 |
| METX 101 | Sources and Fates of Pollutants | 5 |
| METX 102 | Cell and Molecular Toxicology | 5 |
| OCEA 120 | Aquatic Chemistry: Principles and Applications | 5 |
| OCEA 121 | Aqueous Geochemistry | 5 |
| PHYS 156 | Applications of Quantum Materials | 5 |
| PHYS 180 | Biophysics | 5 |
To receive certification from the American Chemical Society, students must complete CHEM 122.
Students may also satisfy the elective requirement by completing a chemistry graduate course with permission from the instructor and department. Please consult with chemistry & biochemistry major advising before enrolling.
Disciplinary Communication (DC) Requirement
Students of every major must satisfy that major’s upper-division Disciplinary Communication (DC) Requirement. The DC Requirement for the bachelor of science (B.S.) degree in chemistry is satisfied by completing:
Plus one of the following courses:
| CHEM 124 | Bioanalytical Chemistry | 4 |
| CHEM 146A | Advanced Laboratory in Organic Chemistry | 3 |
| CHEM 146B | Advanced Laboratory in Inorganic Chemistry | 3 |
| CHEM 146C | Advanced Laboratory in Physical Chemistry | 5 |
| CHEM 160L | Biochemistry Research Laboratory | 5 |
| CHEM 161L | Chemical Biology Research Laboratory | 5 |
Note: CHEM 160L requires completion of CHEM 160J and CHEM 160K as prerequisites, and CHEM 161L requires CHEM 161J and CHEM 161K as prerequisites.
Comprehensive Requirement
The comprehensive requirement is a part of all UCSC degrees. For the chemistry B.S., this requirement can be satisfied by receiving a passing grade in the upper-division labs listed below. These courses provide modern, individualized training in the discipline thus serving as relevant capstone experiences.
Plus one of the following courses:
| CHEM 124 | Bioanalytical Chemistry | 4 |
| CHEM 146A | Advanced Laboratory in Organic Chemistry | 3 |
| CHEM 146B | Advanced Laboratory in Inorganic Chemistry | 3 |
| CHEM 146C | Advanced Laboratory in Physical Chemistry | 5 |
| CHEM 160L | Biochemistry Research Laboratory | 5 |
| CHEM 161L | Chemical Biology Research Laboratory | 5 |
Note: CHEM 160L requires completion of CHEM 160J and CHEM 160K as prerequisites, and CHEM 161L requires CHEM 161J and CHEM 161K as prerequisites.
Planners
The sample academic plans below are for chemistry major informational purposes and do not reflect all university, general education, and credit requirements. See the Undergraduate Graduation Requirements section of the catalog for more information.
This is the ideal academic plan for those pursuing a chemistry B.S. major. If needed, this plan can be arranged differently. Please meet with an academic advisor in the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department to review your individualized official academic plan.
Sample Four-Year Planner
| |
Fall |
Winter |
Spring |
Summer |
| Entering |
|
|
|
College 1A |
| |
|
|
Summer Edge (optional) |
| |
|
|
|
| 1st (frosh) |
MATH 11A or MATH 19A |
MATH 11B or MATH 19B |
CHEM 3C & CHEM 3CL
(not required if CHEM 4 series completed) |
|
|
CHEM 3A or
CHEM 4A & CHEM 4AL
|
CHEM 3B & CHEM 3BL or
CHEM 4B & CHEM 4BL
|
MATH 21
|
|
| College Core |
WRIT 1 or WRIT 1E (if needed) |
|
|
| 2nd (soph) |
CHEM 8A & CHEM 8L |
CHEM 8B & CHEM 8M |
CHEM 110 & CHEM 110L |
|
| PHYS 6A & PHYS 6L |
MATH 22 |
PHYS 6B & PHYS 6M |
|
| WRIT 2** |
|
|
|
| 3rd (junior) |
CHEM 163A |
CHEM 163B |
CHEM 163C |
|
| PHYS 6C & PHYS 6N |
CHEM 151A & CHEM 151L |
CHEM 103 |
|
| |
|
|
|
| 4th(senior) |
CHEM 146A* |
CHEM 164 |
CHEM elective 2 |
|
| |
CHEM elective 1 |
|
CHEM 146B* or CHEM 146C* |
|
| |
|
|
|
|
* CHEM 146A is offered in fall quarter; CHEM 146B and CHEM 146C are offered in spring quarter. Only ONE advanced lab (CHEM 146A, 146B, or 146C) is required for degree completion. Alternatively, students can take the CHEM 160 or CHEM 161 series: CHEM 160J or CHEM 161J, CHEM 160K CHEM 161K, and CHEM 160L or CHEM 161L, which are offered in the fall, winter, and spring, respectively.
** WRIT 2 should be taken in or before spring quarter of the second year. Questions about WRIT coursework or any other non-chemistry major requirements should be directed to college advising.
Two of the required general education requirements will be fulfilled by the major requirements listed in the above planner (MF and SI). In addition to the specific courses shown in these planners, a student will also need to complete courses satisfying the following general education requirements: Cross-Cultural Analysis, Ethnicity & Race, Interpreting Arts & Media, Statistical Reasoning, Textual Analysis & Interpretation, Perspectives, and Practice. College advisors assist students with questions relating to general education requirements.
Sample Transfer Two-Year Planner
This is a sample academic plan for students who have transferred in with both the required and highly recommended pre-transfer courses.
Note: Students who did not complete both the required and highly recommended courses prior to transfer will need to follow a different academic plan and may require additional time to degree.
Please meet with an advisor in the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department to create and review your individualized official academic plan
| |
Fall |
Winter |
Spring |
Summer |
| Entering |
|
|
|
KRSG 1T |
| |
|
|
Summer Edge (optional) |
| |
|
|
|
| 1st (junior) |
CHEM 163A |
CHEM 163B |
CHEM 163C |
|
| PHYS 6C & PHYS 6N |
CHEM 151A & CHEM 151L |
CHEM 110 & CHEM 110L |
|
| |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| 2nd (senior) |
CHEM 146A* |
CHEM 164 |
CHEM elective 2 |
|
| CHEM elective 1 |
MATH 21 |
CHEM 103 |
|
| |
|
CHEM 146B* or CHEM 146C* |
|
* CHEM 146A is offered in fall quarter; CHEM 146B and CHEM 146C are offered in spring quarter. Only ONE advanced lab (CHEM 146A, CHEM 146B, or CHEM 146C) is required for degree completion. Alternatively, students can take the CHEM 160 or 161 series: CHEM 160J or CHEM 161J, CHEM 160K CHEM 161K, and CHEM 160L or CHEM 161L, which are offered in the fall, winter, and spring, respectively.
Biochemistry Concentration
The biochemistry concentration is designed for students who intend to pursue a career in biochemistry or in a related field such as biotechnology, and it provides an exceptionally rigorous chemistry emphasis.
Course Requirements
Lower-Division Courses
General Chemistry:
| | Either these courses | |
| CHEM 3A | General Chemistry | 5 |
| CHEM 3B | General Chemistry | 3 |
| CHEM 3C | General Chemistry | 3 |
| CHEM 3BL | General Chemistry Lab | 2 |
| CHEM 3CL | General Chemistry Lab | 2 |
| | or these courses | |
| CHEM 4A | Advanced General Chemistry: Molecular Structure and Reactivity | 5 |
| CHEM 4B | Advanced General Chemistry: Molecular Structure and Reactivity | 5 |
| CHEM 4AL | Advanced General Chemistry Lab | 2 |
| CHEM 4BL | Advanced General Chemistry Lab | 2 |
Note: This requirement may also be satisfied with prior completion of CHEM 1A, CHEM 1B, CHEM 1C, CHEM 1M, and CHEM 1N or equivalent.
Previous to July 1, 2023, the General Chemistry series, offered by the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, was listed in the General Catalog as CHEM 1A, CHEM 1B and CHEM 1C, with associated laboratories CHEM 1M and CHEM 1N. As of academic year 2023-24, this series was replaced with two distinct series: CHEM 3A, CHEM 3B and CHEM 3C, with labs CHEM 3BL and CHEM 3CL, or CHEM 4A and CHEM 4B with labs CHEM 4AL and CHEM 4BL. Descriptions of these two series are given here.
Calculus:
Choose one of the following options:
| | Either these courses | |
| MATH 11A | Calculus with Applications | 5 |
| MATH 11B | Calculus with Applications | 5 |
| | or these courses | |
| MATH 19A | Calculus for Science, Engineering, and Mathematics | 5 |
| MATH 19B | Calculus for Science, Engineering, and Mathematics | 5 |
A student may combine the MATH 11 series with the MATH 19 series to complete this portion of the major requirement(s). For example, a student can take and complete MATH 19A and then take and complete MATH 11B, but they must follow the Mathematics Department’s Calculus Series Transition Policy.
Multivariable Calculus:
| | Either this course | |
| MATH 22 | Introduction to Calculus of Several Variables | 5 |
| | or these courses | |
| MATH 23A | Vector Calculus | 5 |
| MATH 23B | Vector Calculus | 5 |
| | or this course | |
| AM 30 | Multivariate Calculus for Engineers | 5 |
Advanced Mathematics:
Choose one of the following courses:
| AM 10 | Mathematical Methods for Engineers I | 5 |
| MATH 21 | Linear Algebra | 5 |
| MATH 24 | Ordinary Differential Equations | 5 |
Introductory Biology:
Physics:
Choose one of the following options:
| | Either these courses | |
| PHYS 5A | Introduction to Physics I | 5 |
| PHYS 5B | Introduction to Physics II | 5 |
| PHYS 5C | Introduction to Physics III | 5 |
| PHYS 5L | Introduction to Physics I Laboratory | 1 |
| PHYS 5M | Introduction to Physics II Laboratory | 1 |
| PHYS 5N | Introduction to Physics Laboratory III | 1 |
| | or these courses | |
| PHYS 6A | Introductory Physics I | 5 |
| PHYS 6B | Introductory Physics II | 5 |
| PHYS 6C | Introductory Physics III | 5 |
| PHYS 6L | Introductory Physics I Laboratory | 1 |
| PHYS 6M | Introductory Physics II Laboratory | 1 |
| PHYS 6N | Introductory Physics III Laboratory | 1 |
A student may combine the PHYS 5 series with the PHYS 6 series to complete this portion of the major requirement(s) but must follow the Physics Transition policies.
Organic Chemistry:
By permission and invitation of the instructor, students may substitute CHEM 8M with CHEM 8N, Honors Organic Chemistry Lab. This course is designed to introduce the exceptional student to many of the techniques associated with organic chemistry while taking part in an active organic chemistry research experience.
Upper-Division Courses
Intermediate Organic Chemistry:
| CHEM 110 | Intermediate Organic Chemistry with Emphasis on Synthesis and Analytical Methods | 5 |
| CHEM 110L | Intermediate Organic Chemistry Laboratory | 2 |
By permission and invitation of the instructor, students may substitute CHEM 110L with CHEM 110N, Honors Organic Chemistry Lab. This course is designed to introduce the exceptional student to many of the techniques associated with organic chemistry while taking part in an active organic chemistry research experience.
Inorganic Chemistry:
Satisfies part of the Disciplinary Communication (DC) and Comprehensive requirements.
Biochemistry:
| BIOC 100A | Biochemistry and Molecular Biology | 5 |
| BIOC 100B | Biochemistry and Molecular Biology | 5 |
| BIOC 100C | Biochemistry and Molecular Biology | 5 |
| | AND | |
| | One of these courses | |
| BIOC 110L | Advanced Biochemistry Laboratory | 5 |
| CHEM 160L | Biochemistry Research Laboratory | 5 |
| CHEM 161L | Chemical Biology Research Laboratory | 5 |
Satisfies part of the the Disciplinary Communication (DC) and Comprehensive requirements.
Note: CHEM 160L requires completion of CHEM 160J and CHEM 160K as prerequisites, and CHEM 161L requires completion of CHEM 161J and CHEM 161K as prerequisites.
Physical Chemistry:
Disciplinary Communication (DC) Requirement
Students of every major must satisfy that major’s upper-division Disciplinary Communication (DC) Requirement. The DC Requirement in chemistry with a biochemistry concentration is satisfied by completing:
| CHEM 151L | Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory | 2 |
| | AND | |
| | One of these courses | |
| BIOC 110L | Advanced Biochemistry Laboratory | 5 |
| CHEM 124 | Bioanalytical Chemistry | 4 |
| CHEM 146A | Advanced Laboratory in Organic Chemistry | 3 |
| CHEM 146B | Advanced Laboratory in Inorganic Chemistry | 3 |
| CHEM 146C | Advanced Laboratory in Physical Chemistry | 5 |
| CHEM 160L | Biochemistry Research Laboratory | 5 |
| CHEM 161L | Chemical Biology Research Laboratory | 5 |
Note: CHEM 160L requires completion of CHEM 160J and CHEM 160K as prerequisites, and CHEM 161L requires completion of CHEM 161J and CHEM 161K as prerequisites.
Comprehensive Requirement
The comprehensive requirement is a part of all UC Santa Cruz degrees. For the chemistry B.S with a biochemistry concentration, this requirement can be satisfied by receiving a passing grade in the upper-division labs listed below. These courses provide modern, individualized training in the discipline thus serving as relevant capstone experiences.
| CHEM 151L | Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory | 2 |
| | AND | |
| | One of these courses | |
| BIOC 110L | Advanced Biochemistry Laboratory | 5 |
| CHEM 124 | Bioanalytical Chemistry | 4 |
| CHEM 146A | Advanced Laboratory in Organic Chemistry | 3 |
| CHEM 146B | Advanced Laboratory in Inorganic Chemistry | 3 |
| CHEM 146C | Advanced Laboratory in Physical Chemistry | 5 |
| CHEM 160L | Biochemistry Research Laboratory | 5 |
| CHEM 161L | Chemical Biology Research Laboratory | 5 |
Note: CHEM 160L requires completion of CHEM 160J and CHEM 160K as prerequisites, and CHEM 161L requires completion of CHEM 161J and CHEM 161K as prerequisites.
Planners
This is the most general academic plan for this major. If needed, the plan can be rearranged.
The tables below are for informational purposes and do not reflect all university, general education, and credit requirements. See the Undergraduate Graduation Requirements section of the catalog for more information.
Please meet with an academic advisor in the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department to review your specific official academic plan.
| |
Fall |
Winter |
Spring |
Summer |
| Entering |
|
|
|
College 1A |
| |
|
|
Summer Edge (optional)) |
| |
|
|
|
| 1st (frosh) |
MATH 11A or MATH 19A |
MATH 11B or MATH 19B |
BIOL 20A |
|
|
CHEM 3A or
CHEM 4A & CHEM 4AL
|
CHEM 3B & CHEM 3BL or
CHEM 4B & CHEM 4BL
|
CHEM 3C & CHEM 3CL
(not required if CHEM 4 series completed) |
|
| College 1 |
WRIT 1 or WRIT 1E (if needed)** |
|
|
| 2nd (soph) |
CHEM 8A & CHEM 8L |
CHEM 8B & CHEM 8M |
CHEM 110 & CHEM 110L |
|
| BIOE 20B |
MATH 22 |
MATH 21 |
|
| WRIT 2** |
|
|
|
| 3rd (junior) |
BIOC 100A |
BIOC 100B |
BIOC 100C |
|
| PHYS 6A & PHYS 6L |
PHYS 6B & PHYS 6M |
PHYS 6C & PHYS 6N |
|
| |
|
|
|
| 4th (senior)* |
CHEM 146A* |
CHEM 163B |
CHEM 163C |
|
| CHEM 163A |
|
|
|
| |
CHEM 151A & CHEM 151L |
BIOC 110L* |
|
| |
|
|
|
*DC/Comp Requirement: Satisfied by taking ONE of either CHEM 146A (fall quarter), CHEM 146B or CHEM 146C (spring quarter), CHEM 124 (winter quarter), or BIOC 110L. Alternatively, students can take the CHEM 160 or CHEM 161 series: CHEM 160J or CHEM 161J, CHEM 160K or CHEM 161K, and CHEM 160L or CHEM 161L, which are offered in the fall, winter, and spring, respectively.
**WRIT 2 should be taken in or before spring quarter of the second year. Questions about WRIT coursework or any other non-chemistry major requirements should be directed to college advising.
Two of the required general education requirements will be fulfilled by the major requirements listed in the above planner (MF and SI). In addition to the specific courses shown in these planners, a student will also need to complete courses satisfying the following general education requirements: Cross-Cultural Analysis, Ethnicity and Race, Interpreting Arts and Media, Statistical Reasoning, Textual Analysis and Interpretation, Perspectives, and Practice. College advisors assist students with questions relating to general education requirements.
Sample Transfer Two-Year Planner
This is a sample academic plan for students who have transferred in with both the required and highly recommended pre-transfer courses.
Note: Students who did not complete the required and most of the recommended chemistry transfer courses prior to transfer will need to follow a different academic plan and may require additional time to degree.
Please meet with an advisor from the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department to create and review your individualized official academic plan.
| |
Fall |
Winter |
Spring |
Summer |
| Entering |
|
|
|
KRSG 1T |
| |
|
|
Summer Edge (optional) |
| |
|
|
|
| 1st (junior) |
BIOC 100A |
BIOC 100B |
BIOC 100C |
|
| |
|
CHEM 110 & CHEM 110L |
|
| |
|
|
|
| 2nd (senior) |
CHEM 163A |
CHEM 163B |
CHEM 163C |
|
| |
CHEM 151A & CHEM 151L |
BIOC 110L* |
|
| |
|
|
|
*Alternatively to BIOC 110L, students can take the CHEM 160 or CHEM 161 series: CHEM 160J or CHEM 161J, CHEM 160K or CHEM 161K, and CHEM 160L or CHEM 161L, which are offered in the fall, winter, and spring, respectively.