Introductory Chemistry Course Comparison

Effective Fall 2024, the Department of Chemistry is implementing changes to the chemistry curriculum to better support student success, reduce barriers to chemistry for students, and offer more in-person chemistry coursework. 

CHEM 1015/1017

  • Students are expected to enroll in the lecture and lab
  • No longer a prerequisite to other chemistry courses
Who Should Take it:
  • Students pursuing majors requiring CHEM 1015/1017
  • Students interested in learning more about chemistry and wanting to complete their Physical Sciences LE

No placement required.

Chemistry for CSE Students

CHEM 1071H/CHEM 1065 and CHEM 1071/CHEM1065

Start with more advanced content and go deeper with more complex examples.

Who Should Take CHEM 1071/1065:
  • CSE students
  • Students with a strong background in math and chemistry who intend to transfer to CSE (CHEM 1061/CHEM 1081 will still be accepted for ICT students)

Math placement of Calculus I (or the equivalent). No ALEKS placement requirement.

Life Sciences Chemistry for CBS Students

CHEM 1081/1065

Expanding foundational chemistry content to include what was previously covered in the ALEKS placement test.

Who Should Take it:
  • Students pursuing majors that require this course
  • Most appropriate option for students with a biological or health sciences focus

Math placement of Math 1151 Precalculus II or higher (or the equivalent).* No ALEKS placement requirement. 

*To ensure preparation for algebraic thinking.

Chemistry for Students in other Colleges

CHEM 1061/1065

Expanding foundational chemistry content to include what was previously covered in the ALEKS placement test.

Who Should Take it:

  • Students pursuing majors that require this course
  • Students interested in professional programs that require chemistry

Math placement of Math 1151 Precalculus II or higher.* No ALEKS placement requirement.

*To ensure preparation for algebraic thinking

Choose the Sequence That's Right for You

Expand all

Will the Life Sciences classes be accepted by my next institution, like medical school?

Yes, Life Sciences Chemistry courses will be accepted by other institutions the same as other chemistry classes at the same level. Life Science Chemistry courses offer the same core concepts as their standard counterparts, the content is simply adjusted to better fit a career in biological or health sciences.

Who do I contact to learn more about the introductory chemistry courses?