The Department of Chemistry has several ways students can enhance their education and/or earn an honors degree from the University of Washington.
Honors courses in general chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, and physical chemistry are offered yearly. All sequences start in the Autumn Quarter.
CHEM 145, 155, 165--General Chemistry
CHEM 335, 336, 337, 347--Organic Chemistry
BIOC 440H, 441H, 442H--Biochemistry
CHEM 475--Physical Chemistry
CHEM 145 is open to those with a score of 4 or 5 on the AP Chemistry test; or a 5, 6, or 7 on the High Level Chemistry IB exam; or those who have passed the general chemistry honors placement test offered by the UW Educational Assessment Office. Students receiving a borderline passing score should consult with the chemistry advisors regarding appropriate placement.
Students should be aware that CHEM 145 (pdf, 145k) assumes full mastery of the basic concepts of elementary chemistry so the course will not review this material. The expectation for math and problem solving proficiency is also high in the honors courses. The web link for CHEM 145 (pdf, 145k) contains a complete listing of prerequisites, exam information, source materials, and sample exam questions indicating areas and levels of knowledge expected on entry.
Admission to CHEM 335, the first quarter of honors organic chemistry, is restricted and requires a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 in the honors general chemistry sequence or a cumulative grade point average of 3.3 in the regular general chemistry sequence. Consult with the chemistry advisors for registration.
Admission to BIOC 440 honors is restricted to students who have achieved a 3.5 cumulative grade point average in the organic chemistry and biology prerequisite courses. Continuation into Bioc 441 honors and 442 honors requires a 3.5 grade in Bioc 440. Students meeting the criteria should contact the chemistry/biochemistry advisors for help registering.
Admission to CHEM 475 is restricted to students with strong Math, Chemistry and Physics grades. A cumulative GPA of ~ 3.5 in the prerequisite courses is recommended. Students must meet with the instructor for permission to take the course.
Departmental Distinction can be earned by maintaining a 3.5 cumulative grade point average, participating in a minimum of six credits of approved 399/499 research and completing an approved 2500 word thesis. The student's faculty advisor must read the thesis and sign their approval on the cover page. The thesis must then be given to chemistry/biochemistry undergraduate advisors who ensure that it is reviewed by Chemistry's Associate Chair for Undergraduate Education for final approval.
An invitation to pursue Departmental Distinction is offered after a student completes the organic chemistry sequence with a qualifying grade point average. A departmental honors invitation form must be submitted by the chemistry/biochemistry advisors to the Honors Program Office in order for student to enter the program.
"College Honors" can be earned by fulfilling the departmental distinction requirements and by acceptance into the UW Honors Program and fulfilling their requirements which include rigorous general education requirements. Contact the UW Honors Program for more information about this option.