First-Year Chemistry
What Chemistry Course Should I Take?
First-year students may be placed into a chemistry course by their home department prior to arriving at Michigan Tech, but this can be adjusted during orientation or within the first few weeks of class.
Students who have difficulty with introductory chemistry courses generally have weak math skills or have not taken chemistry for several years. The guidelines below can help you choose your first chemistry course. When selecting your course, consider the grades you earned in your last semester of high school chemistry and algebra, and the number of years since you last studied chemistry.
Guidelines for Chemistry Course Selection
| Math Course Placement | High School Chemistry and Algebra Grade | Recommended Fall Chemistry Courses |
|---|---|---|
| MA1030 College Algebra I | - | CH1000^ Preparatory Chemistry |
| MA1032 Data, Functions, Graphs Plus or higher | < B | CH1000^ Preparatory Chemistry |
| MA1032 Data, Functions, Graphs Plus or higher | ≥ B | Required: CH1150* University Chemistry 1 Lecture and CH1151* University Chemistry 1 Laboratory Recommended; required for some majors: CH1153 University Chemistry 1 Recitation |
| ^ CH1000 Preparatory Chemistry is for students who didn’t take chemistry in high school or want to review chemistry fundamentals before enrolling in University Chemistry 1. | ||
| * University Chemistry 1 requires a working knowledge of high school chemistry, proficiency in algebra, and good problem-solving skills. | ||
| Note: If three or more years have passed since taking high school chemistry, enroll in CH1000 Preparatory Chemistry | ||
Advising
We're dedicated to helping you succeed in chemistry. Browse our frequently asked questions for answers to questions that you may have. The Chemistry Learning Center (CLC) is a valuable resource that we encourage you to explore. Students who participate in the CLC typically earn one-half to one full grade higher than students who don't. Contact us to learn more about the CLC and other chemistry advising resources available to first-year students:
Lorri Reilly
- Lab Supervisor
Paul Charlesworth
- Associate Professor, Chemistry
- Affiliated Associate Professor, Cognitive and Learning Sciences
Earning Advanced Placement Credit
Students who took the chemistry advanced placement test in high school can earn credits prior to coming to Michigan Tech. If you did not take the AP test but are interested in earning credits, refer to the CLEP exam information on our Admissions website.
Department of Chemistry Students
Are you a first-year student who is pursuing a degree within the Department of Chemistry? The Studio Lab, located in the Chemical Sciences and Engineering Building, is dedicated to you. Thought-provoking lectures and lab sessions in the Studio Lab provide students with independent creative-thinking opportunities. You'll develop excellent lab skills while getting to know your fellow classmates.