Chemistry and Biochemistry
Chair’s Office: 2040 Urey Hall Addition
(858) 534-3575
http://www-chem.ucsd.edu
Undergraduate Student Affairs
4010 York Hall
(858) 534-0220
Graduate Student Affairs
4010 York Hall
(858) 534-6871
Revelle College
Professors
Courses
Introduction
The UCSD Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry was founded in
the 1950s by the late Professor Harold Urey and a group of colleagues
who strove to create a department that would stress the fundamentals
of chemistry and, at the same time, embrace diverse applications
of those principles at the frontiers of knowledge.
Degrees offered include:
Biochemistry
B.S. Biochemistry/Chemistry
M.S. Chemistry
Ph.D. Chemistry
Ph.D. Chemistry with specialization in bioinformatics
Chemistry
B.A. Environmental Chemistry
B.S. Biochemistry
B.S. Bioinformatics from the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
B.S. Chemical Education
B.S. Chemical Physics
B.S. Chemistry
B.S. Chemistry/Earth Sciences
B.S. Environmental Chemistry
B.S. Molecular Synthesis
B.S. Pharmacological Chemistry
M.S. Chemistry
Ph.D. Chemistry
Ph.D. Chemistry with specialization in bioinformatics
ChemistryPremedical Majors
Either a biochemistry/chemistry major or a chemistry major with
appropriate choice of electives provides a strong background for
students intending to pursue careers in the medical sciences.
Premedical students are encouraged to complete the three-quarter
general chemistry series (Chem. 6A-B-C or 6AH-6BH-6CH) in their
first year. Most medical schools require both a full year of general
chemistry, and may not accept Advanced Placement exam scores to
satisfy admissions requirements. Students with Advanced Placement
exam scores of 4 or 5 who plan to attend medical school should discuss
their academic plan with an academic or career adviser early in
their academic career. Students should complete the organic chemistry
series (either Chem. 140A-B-C or Chem. 141A-B-C) in their sophomore
year.
The lower-division biology (BILD 1-2-3) series or equivalent is
also required for most medical schools, along with certain upper-division
biology courses, some of which may be counted toward the major requirements
in chemistry. Students should meet with the department’s undergraduate
adviser early in order to plan their courses and discuss their options.
General Chemistry
The General Chemistry Chem. 6 sequence (6A-B-C) is intended for
science and engineering majors as well as others who need a quantitative
course. It satisfies all preprofessional programs. Chem. 4 is a
one-quarter preparation for 6A, which should be taken only by those
whose college adviser so recommends. The Honors General Chemistry
sequence (6AH-6BH-6CH) is designed for science and engineering majors
with strong preparation in science and mathematics. A student intending
to major in chemistry can thus begin with 4, 6A, or 6AH depending
on the level of preparation. A student intending to major in a discipline
other than chemistry should consult his or her adviser in the appropriate
department to determine which chemistry course is recommended.
Chem. 11, 12, 13 is a terminal sequence for non-science/non-engineering
majors. Chem. 15 is a one-quarter survey course suitable for non-science
majors. Students should check with their college adviser to determine
applicability toward general-education requirements.
General Information on Undergraduate Major Programs
The minimum passing grade is a D, though students may not graduate
with more than one D grade in upper-division required course work
and must maintain a minimum of a 2.0 average GPA in the major. All
courses for the major, except for independent research (Chem. 199)
and chemistry instruction (Chem. 195), must be taken for a letter
grade. Chem. 195 and Chem. 199 must be taken on a P/NP basis. All
chemistry majors, including transfer students, must complete forty-eight
units of upper-division chemistry course work at UCSD and fulfill
the campus senior residency requirement.
In addition to the requirements, Math. 20F (required for chemical
physics majors) and a course in computer programming are also recommended.
Any departure from the requirements outlined below must be approved
by petition. This applies to lower- and upper-division requirements.
The suggested programs following each of the major descriptions
are only examples.
All undergraduate degree programs, unless otherwise noted, are
certified by the American Chemical Society.
Biochemistry/Chemistry Major
The Biochemistry/Chemistry major deals with the chemical processes
in living organisms, including structure and function of nucleic
acids and proteins. It is suitable for those planning to go to graduate
school as well as medical, dental, veterinary, and other professional
schools. It is also suitable at the bachelor’s level for jobs
in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical field.
The following courses must be taken for a letter grade:
Lower-Division Requirements
- General chemistry including laboratory (Chem. 6A-C or 6AH-CH,
and 6BL, or equivalent).
- Calculus (Math. 20A-D, or equivalent).
- Calculus-based physics including laboratory (Phys. 2A-B and
2D or equivalent, and either 2BL, 2CL or 2DL. Phys. 2CL is recommended
and is accessible without Phys. 2C).
Upper-Division Requirements
- Three quarters of organic chemistry (Chem. 140A-C or 141A-C).
- Two quarters of physical chemistry (Chem. 126-127 recommended;
131133 acceptable).
- One quarter of inorganic chemistry (Chem. 120A).
- Three quarters of biochemistry (Chem. 114A-C).
- Six laboratory courses (Chem. 100A, 143AM or 143A, 143B, 105A,
either 112A or 112B and one additional chemistry lab from the
following: Chem. 100B, 105B, 112A or 112B, 123, 143C, or 143D).
- Two elective courses from the following list: Chem. 107, 113/213,
114D, 115/215, 124/225, 116/216, 118, 152/252, 154/254, 155/255,
156/256, 157/257.
- One additional elective course chosen from among all of the
upper-division and graduate courses offered by the Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry (except non-letter-graded courses)
or from the following list of courses offered by the Department
of Biology (some biology courses will require additional coursework
to fulfill prerequisites): BICD 100, BICD 110, BICD 140, BIMM
114, BIMM 120, BIPN 100, BIPN 102, BIPN 140. Other electives may
be arranged by petition.
Suggested Program for Biochemistry/Chemistry B.S. Major
Many courses have enforced prerequisites or are offered once per
year.
FALL |
WINTER |
SPRING |
|
FRESHMAN YEAR |
|
|
Chem. 6A |
Chem. 6B |
Chem. 6C |
Math. 20A |
Math. 20C |
Chem. 6BL |
|
BILD 1* |
Math. 20C |
|
SOPHOMORE YEAR |
|
|
Chem. 100A |
Chem. 140B |
Chem. 140C |
Chem. 140A |
Chem. 143AM |
Chem. 143B |
Math. 20D |
Phys. 2B |
Phys. 2D |
Phys. 2A |
|
|
|
JUNIOR YEAR |
|
|
Chem. 114A |
Chem. 114B |
Chem. 105A |
Chem. 126 |
Chem. 127 |
Chem. 114C |
Phys. 2CL |
|
|
|
SENIOR YEAR |
|
|
Chem. 120A |
Elective Lab** |
Elective Lab** |
Elective |
Elective |
Elective |
|
* Recommended, but not required.
** One of these must be Chem. 112A or 112B.
Bioinformatics Major from the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Also see the program information listed under Bioinformatics
in the catalog.
The Bioinformatics major offers a rigorous, interdisciplinary training
in the new and rapidly evolving field of bioinformatics with a strong
focus on chemistry and biochemistry. Bioinformatics is the field
of advanced computational and experimental methods that model the
flow of information (genetic, metabolic, and regulatory) in living
systems to provide an integrated understanding of the systems properties
of model organisms. This is a new and rapidly evolving field in
which large volumes of both qualitative and quantitative data will
accrue at an increasing pace, and the bioinformatician must have
a substantial mastery of both the sciences and engineering. This
interdisciplinary specialization will be offered jointly with computer
science and engineering, bioengineering, and biological sciences,
each with its own set of requirements and electives. The program
offered by the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry is aimed
at a student interested in applying and developing tools of bioinformatics
for the study of chemical processes in biological systems.
Admission to the Bioinformatics Major
There is a fifty-student limit in all combined bioinformatics majors
on campus. As a result, admission to the bioinformatics degree is
not guaranteed, but is based on a screening process which evaluates
potential majors based on academic excellence. Since bioinformatics
is an interdisciplinary major, a steering committee involving faculty
from the participating departments will select among the best candidates
applying and recommended through each department, while insuring
active participation of the departments and divisions offering the
major. The final decision on admission to the pre-major and major
will be made by the bioinformatics steering committee, in consultation
with the departments.
Chemistry and Biochemistry candidates for the major should enroll
as either chemistry (major code Chem. 25) or biochemistry (major
code Chem. 31) majors until they have completed their screening
courses in the first two years and have been admitted to the bioinformatics
major.
Freshmen
Freshmen may apply to the bioinformatics pre-major after completing
the initial screening courses:
- Math. 20B
- Math. 20C
- BILD 1
- Chem. 6A
Once admitted to the pre-major, students may take CSE 11 and 12.
On completion of those courses, students may apply for admission
to the major. Admission is based on the number of seats available
and the applicants GPA in the six screening courses (Math.
20B-C, BILD 1, Chem. 6A, CSE 11, CSE 12).
Continuing Students
Students who have not declared the bioinformatics pre-major, but
who have completed the screening courses, may apply for entry to
a bioinformatics program after six quarters (the end of the sophomore
year). They will be admitted on a space-available basis, after pre-majors
have been screened for admission to the major.
Transfer Students
Effective fall 2003, applicants seeking admission to a bioinformatics
major must have completed the following courses with a strong GPA
that is competitive with that of UCSD students applying for entry
into this specialization:
- a year of calculus (equivalent to Math. 20A-B-C)
- a year of general chemistry, with lab (equivalent to Chem. 6A-B-C,
and 6BL)
- the highest level programming course offered at the community
college (equivalent to CSE 11 and 12)
- one semester of biology (equivalent to BILD 1 and BILD 2)
Those who have not completed the equivalent courses may be admitted
as pre-majors, using the same criteria that apply for UCSD students,
and will be allowed a maximum of three quarters to complete pre-major
requirements. Transfer students are therefore encouraged to complete
these requirements at the community college.
The following courses must be taken for a letter grade:
Lower-Division Requirements
- Calculus and linear algebra (Math. 20A-20C, 20F)
- General chemistry including laboratory (Chem. 6A-C or 6AH-CH,
and 6BL).
- Physics (Phys. 2A-B)
- Biology (BILD 1-2 )
- Computer programming (CSE 11-12)
- Mathematics for algorithm and systems (CSE 21/Math. 15B)
- Bioinformatics seminar (BILD 94)
The department recommends that students complete an introductory
C programming course before taking CSE 11 and CSE 12, either in
their first year or during the summer between their first and second
years.
Upper-Division Requirements
- Two quarters of organic chemistry (Chem. 140A-B)
- Organic chemistry (Chem. 140C) or structural biochemistry (Chem.
114A)
- Metabolic biochemistry (Chem. 114B)
- Physical chemistry (Chem. 127 accepted, Chem. 131 and 132 recommended)
- Molecular and cellular biochemistry (Chem. 114D)
- Two quarters of biochemistry laboratory (Chem. 112A-112B)
- Genetics (BICD 100)
- Cell biology (BICD 110)
- Two computer science courses (CSE 100 or Math. 176; and CSE
101 or Math. 188)
- Two additional upper-division electives offered by the Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry (each course must be at least four
units) with only one quarter of credit allowed for any given course.
Recommended courses are: Chem. 100A, 115, 118, and 143A.
The bioinformatics series comprising the following courses:
- Molecular sequence analysis (BIMM 181 or CSE 181 or BENG 181)
- Biological databases (Chem. 182 or BIMM 182 or CSE 182 or BENG
182)
- Applied genomic technologies (BENG 183)
- Computational molecular biology (BIMM 184 or CSE 184 or BENG
184)
- Bioinformatics lab (BIMM 185)
- Probability and statistics (Math. 186)
Suggested Program for the Bioinformatics B.S. from the Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Many courses have enforced prerequisites or are offered once per
year.
FALL |
WINTER |
SPRING |
|
FRESHMAN YEAR
|
Chem. 6A |
Chem. 6B |
Chem. 6C |
Math. 20A |
BILD 1 |
Chem. 6BL |
|
Math. 20B |
Math. 20C |
|
|
BILD 94 |
|
SOPHOMORE YEAR |
CSE 11 |
Chem. 140A |
Chem. 112B* |
BILD 2 |
CSE 12 |
Chem.
140B |
Phys. 2A |
Phys. 2B |
CSE 21/Math. 15B |
|
JUNIOR YEAR |
|
|
Chem. 114A/140C |
Chem. 114B* |
Elective |
BICD 100 |
Chem. 114D* |
BIMM 181/BENG 181/CSE
181 |
CSE 100/Math. 176* |
Math. 186 |
BICD 110 |
Math. 20F |
CSE 101/Math. 188 |
|
|
SENIOR YEAR |
|
|
Chem. 182/BIMM 182/BENG
182/CSE 182 |
Chem. 112A* |
BIMM 185 |
BENG 183 |
Chem. 127* |
Elective |
|
BIMM 184/BENG 184/CSE
184 |
|
|
* Certain prerequisite courses are waived for the bioinformatics
majors. See the department adviser for details.
Chemical Education Major
The Chemical Education major offers an excellent preparation for
teaching physical science in secondary schools, including chemistry,
physics, earth science, biology, and mathematics.
The chemical education program is sufficiently intensive that students
with this degree should be admissible as graduate students in chemistry,
biochemistry, and teacher education programs at most universities.
This program is also excellent preparation for students interested
in a career in science writing.
The program is basically a chemistry major with earth science and
biochemistry as electives, combined with three courses in the Teacher
Education Program.
If you are interested in earning a California teaching credential
through UCSD, contact the Teacher Education Program for information
about the prerequisite and professional preparation requirements.
It is recommended that you contact TEP as early as possible in your
academic career.
The following courses must be taken for a letter grade:
Lower-Division Requirements
- General chemistry including laboratory (Chem. 6A-C or 6AH-CH,
and 6BL, or equivalent).
- Calculus (Math. 20A-D, or equivalent).
- Calculus-based physics including laboratory (Phys. 2A-B and
2D or equivalent, and either 2BL, 2CL or 2DL. Phys. 2CL is recommended
and is accessible without Phys. 2C).
- Biology (BILD 1).
Upper-Division Requirements
- Three quarters of organic chemistry (Chem. 140A-C or 141A-C).
- Two quarters of physical chemistry (Chem. 126-127 recommended;
131-133 acceptable).
- One quarter of inorganic chemistry (Chem. 120A).
- One quarter of biochemistry (Chem. 114A).
- Six laboratory courses (Chem. 100A, 143AM or 143A, 143B, 105A,
and two of the following: 100B, 105B, 112A, 112B, 123, 143C, or
143D).
- One additional elective course chosen from among all of the
upper-division and graduate courses offered by the Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry (except non-letter graded courses).
- Two earth science courses (Erth. 101 and Erth. 102 or 103).
Other biology or chemistry courses may be arranged by petition.
- Chem. 195, or 196, or 199. Chem. 195 is recommended.
- TEP 129A-B-C.
Suggested Program for Chemical Education B.S. Major
Many courses have enforced prerequisites or are offered once per
year.
FALL |
WINTER |
SPRING |
|
FRESHMAN YEAR
|
Chem. 6A |
Chem. 6B |
Chem. 6C |
Math. 20A |
BILD 1 |
Chem. 6BL |
|
Math. 20B |
Math. 20C |
|
SOPHOMORE YEAR |
Chem. 100A |
Chem. 140B |
Chem. 140C |
Chem. 140A |
Chem. 143AM |
Chem. 143B |
Math. 20D |
Phys. 2B |
Phys. 2D |
Phys. 2A |
|
|
|
JUNIOR YEAR |
|
|
Chem. 126 |
Chem. 127 |
Phys. 2CL |
Erth. 101 |
Elective Lab |
Elective |
|
Erth. 102/103 |
|
|
SENIOR YEAR |
|
|
Chem. 114A |
Chem. 105A |
Elective Lab |
Chem. 120A |
Chem. 195/196/199 |
TEP 129C |
TEP 129A |
TEP 129B |
|
|
Chemical Physics Major
The Chemical Physics major applies the concepts and quantitative
methods of physics to the descriptions of atoms and molecules, analyzes
matter as a statistical assembly of molecular building blocks, and
develops and exploits physical (largely spectroscopic) experimental
tools with which to test and refine such theories.
The chemical physics major is designed as a preparation for graduate
work in chemistry, physics, or other interdisciplinary areas.
The following courses must be taken for a letter grade:
Lower-Division Requirements
- General chemistry including laboratory (Chem. 6A-C or 6AH-CH,
and 6BL, or equivalent).
- Calculus and linear algebra (Math. 20A-F, or equivalent).
- 3. Calculus-based physics including laboratory (Phys. 2A-D
or equivalent, and either 2BL, 2CL or 2DL. Phys. 2CL is recommended).
It is recommended that the above requirements be completed by the
end of the sophomore year.
Upper-Division Requirements
- Two quarters of organic chemistry (Chem. 140A-B or 141A-B).
- One year of physical chemistry (Chem. 131-133).
- Two quarters of inorganic chemistry (Chem. 120A-B). Chem. 114A
can substitute for Chem. 120B.
- Six upper-division chemistry labs: Chem. 100 A-B, 143AM or
143A, 143B or 143C, 105A and one of the following: 105B, 112A,
112B, 123, 143B, 143C, or 143D.
- Molecular spectroscopy (Chem. 135).
- Partial differential equations (Math. 110).
- Two quarters of physics (Phys. 110A-B, or Phys. 100A-B).
- One additional course in physical chemistry or related areas
as approved by the department. Chem. 199 may be petitioned.
Suggested Program for Chemical Physics B.S. Major
Many courses have enforced prerequisites or are offered once per
year.
FALL |
WINTER |
SPRING |
|
FRESHMAN YEAR
|
Chem. 6A |
Chem. 6B |
Chem. 6C |
Math. 20A |
Math. 20B |
Chem. 6BL |
|
|
Math. 20C |
|
|
Phys. 2A |
|
SOPHOMORE YEAR |
Chem. 140A |
Chem. 140B |
Chem. 100A |
Math. 20D |
Chem. 143AM |
Math. 20F |
Phys. 2B |
Math. 20E |
Phys. 2D |
|
Phys. 2C |
|
|
JUNIOR YEAR |
Chem. 131 |
Chem. 132 |
Chem. 100B |
Chem. 143C |
Phys. 2CL |
Chem. 133 |
Phys. 110A/100A |
Phys. 110B/100B |
Math. 110 |
|
SENIOR YEAR |
|
|
Chem. 105A |
Elective Lab |
Chem. 135 |
Chem. 120A |
Chem. 120B* |
Elective |
|
* Chem. 114A (fall quarter) may be substituted.
Chemistry Major
The Chemistry major provides a broad introduction for the biochemistry,
organic, physical, or inorganic student as well as those who prefer
not to specialize. This major will enable a student to pursue further
studies in chemistry or in related fields of science, medicine,
or engineering.
The following courses must be taken for a letter grade:
Lower-Division Requirements
- General chemistry including laboratory (Chem. 6A-C or 6AH-CH,
and 6BL, or equivalent).
- Calculus (Math. 20A-D, or equivalent).
- Calculus-based physics including laboratory (Phys. 2A-B and
2D or equivalent, and either 2BL, 2CL or 2DL. Phys. 2CL is recommended
and is accessible without Phys. 2C).
Upper-Division Requirements
- Three quarters of organic chemistry (Chem. 140A-C or 141A-C).
- Three quarters of physical chemistry (Chem. 131133).
- Two quarters of inorganic chemistry Chem. (120A-B).
- One quarter of biochemistry (Chem. 114A).
- Six laboratory courses (Chem. 100A, 143AM or 143A, 143B, 105A
and two of the following: Chem. 100B, 105B, 112A, 112B, 123, 143C,
or 143D).
- Three additional four-unit upper-division or graduate courses
in chemistry and biochemistry or related areas. One of Chem. 195
or 199 may be petitioned.
Suggested Program for Chemistry B.S. Major
Many courses have enforced prerequisites or are offered once per
year.
FALL |
WINTER |
SPRING |
|
FRESHMAN YEAR
|
Chem. 6A |
Chem. 6B |
Chem. 6C |
Math. 20A |
Math. 20B |
Chem. 6BL |
|
|
Math. 20C |
|
SOPHOMORE YEAR |
Chem. 100A |
Chem. 140B |
Chem. 140C |
Chem. 140A |
Chem. 143AM |
Chem. 143B |
Math. 20D |
Phys. 2A |
Phys. 2B |
|
JUNIOR YEAR |
|
|
Chem. 120A |
Chem. 120B |
Chem. 105A |
Chem. 131 |
Chem. 132 |
Chem. 133 |
Phys. 2D |
Phys. 2CL |
|
|
SENIOR YEAR |
|
|
Chem. 114A |
Elective Lab |
Elective |
Elective Lab |
Elective |
Elective |
|
Chemistry/Earth Sciences Major
The Chemistry/Earth Sciences major is available in cooperation
with UCSDs Scripps Institution of Oceanography. It requires
course work for a major in chemistry, plus additional courses in
geology. It will appeal to students who plan to go on to graduate
school in related fields, or to those students who plan to go into
professional geologic work with their undergraduate degree.
The following courses must be taken for a letter grade:
Lower-Division Requirements
- General chemistry including laboratory (Chem. 6A-C or 6AH-CH,
and 6BL, or equivalent).
- Calculus (Math. 20A-D, or equivalent).
- Calculus-based physics including laboratory (Phys. 2A-B and
2D or equivalent, and either 2BL, 2CL or 2DL. Phys. 2CL is recommended
and is accessible without Phys. 2C). Phys. 2C is recommended as
preparation for the upper-division Earth Sciences sequence, but
it is not required for the major.
Upper-Division Requirements
- Two quarters of organic chemistry (Chem. 140A-B or 141A-B).
- Three quarters of physical chemistry (Chem. 131-133).
- Two quarters of inorganic chemistry (Chem. 120A-B). Chem. 114A
can substitute for Chem. 120B.
- Six upper-division labs: Chem. 100A-B, 143AM or 143A, 105A,
Erth. 162L, and one of the following: Chem. 105B, 112A, 112B,
123, 143B-143C or 143D.
- Five Earth Sciences courses ( Erth. 101-103, 120 and 162A).
- One additional course from the following list: SIO 252, 253,
259, 260, 261, Chem. 149A, 149B, 170, 171, 173. Petrology is essential
for geology students. SIO 253 should be taken by students planning
to go on to graduate school or to do professional geologic work
with their undergraduate degrees. Students are encouraged to take
at least one quarter of Chem. 199.
Suggested Program for Chemistry/Earth Sciences B.S. Major
Many courses have enforced prerequisites or are offered once per
year.
FALL |
WINTER |
SPRING |
|
FRESHMAN YEAR
|
Chem. 6A |
Chem. 6B |
Chem. 6C |
Math. 20A |
Math. 20B |
Chem. 6BL |
|
|
Math. 20C |
|
SOPHOMORE YEAR |
Chem. 100A |
Chem. 140B |
Chem. 100B |
Chem. 140A |
Chem. 143AM |
Phys. 2B |
Math. 20D |
Phys. 2A |
Phys. 2CL |
|
JUNIOR
YEAR |
|
|
Chem.
131 |
Chem.
132 |
Chem.
105A |
Erth. 101 |
Erth. 102 |
Chem. 133 |
Phys. 2D |
Erth. 120 |
Erth. 103 |
|
SENIOR YEAR |
|
|
Chem. 114A* |
Erth. 162A |
Elective |
Chem. 120A |
Erth. 162L |
Elective Lab |
|
* Chem. 120B (winter quarter) may be substituted.
Environmental Chemistry Major
Students have the option of earning the B.A. or the B.S. in the
Environmental Chemistry major. The B.S. is ACS certified and is
recommended for those who intend to apply to graduate school.
The Environmental Chemistry major requires a strong chemistry background,
but also includes breadth courses from other disciplines related
to environmental concerns. The elective courses allow specialization
in a secondary area of interest, such as economics, political science,
biology, earth sciences, or additional chemistry.
The program is designed to prepare students to enter the industrial,
governmental, or legal workforce, or to continue studies in the
environmental sciences. Students fulfilling their elective requirements
with chemistry and biochemistry courses would be prepared to attend
most graduate schools in chemical sciences.
The following courses must be taken for a letter grade:
Lower-Division Requirements
- General chemistry including laboratory (Chem. 6A-C or 6AH-CH,
and 6BL, or equivalent).
- Calculus (Math. 20A-D, or equivalent).
- Calculus-based physics (Phys. 2A-B and 2D or equivalent). Phys.
2CL (or Phys. 2BL or 2DL) is required for a B.S. degree.
Upper-Division Requirements
- Two quarters of organic chemistry (Chem. 140A-B or 141A-B).
- Two quarters of physical chemistry (Chem. 126-127 recommended;
131-133 acceptable).
- One quarter of inorganic chemistry (Chem. 120A) or a third quarter
of organic chemistry (Chem. 140C or 141C).
- One quarter of biochemistry (Chem. 114A).
- Three laboratory courses (Chem. 100A-B and 143AM or 143A).
- Two quarters of environmental chemistry (Chem. 149A-B).
- Atmospheric chemistry (Chem. 173).
Elective Requirements
- Four non-science elective courses chosen from the following
list (at least one course must be upper-division): Econ. 1, Econ.
3, Econ. 131, Econ. 132, HIUS 154, Phil. 148, Phil. 164, Poli.
SCI 160AA, Poli. SCI 160AB, Poli. SCI 162, Soc. 185, USP 2, USP
124, USP 144, USP 171. Environmen-tal chemistry students must
complete their elective requirements through coursework and cannot
substitute examination scores such as Advanced Placement examinations
for these courses.
- Three science elective courses chosen from the following list
(at least two courses must be upper-division): Chem. 105A, Chem.
105B, Chem. 112A, Chem. 112B, Chem. 114B, Chem. 114C, Chem. 120A,
Chem. 120B, Chem. 123, Chem. 140C or 141C, Chem. 143B, Chem. 143C,
Chem 143D, Chem. 170, Chem. 171, Chem. 199, Erth. 40, Erth. 101,
Erth. 102, Erth. 103, BILD 1, BILD 2, BILD 3, BIEB 120, BIEB 121,
BIEB 176, BIEB 178, BIEB 179, MAE 118A-B.
- Students desiring an ACS certified B.S. Degree must take three
laboratory courses: Chem. 105A, 143B or 143C, and one from the
following list: Chem. 105B, 112A, 112B, 123, 143B. 142C, or 142D.
These courses may be used to satisfy number 2 above.
Suggested Program for Environmental Chemistry B.A. or B.S. Major
(B.S. and ACS certification require additional courses)
Many courses have enforced prerequisites or are offered once per
year.
FALL |
WINTER |
SPRING |
|
FRESHMAN YEAR
|
Chem. 6A |
Chem. 6B |
Chem. 6C |
Math. 20A |
Math. 20B |
Chem. 6BL |
|
Phys. 2A |
Math. 20C |
|
SOPHOMORE YEAR |
Chem. 100A |
Chem. 140B |
Chem. 100B |
Chem. 140A |
Chem. 143AM |
Phys. 2D |
Math. 20D |
Phys. 2B |
|
|
JUNIOR YEAR |
|
|
Chem. 126 |
Chem. 127 |
Chem. 173 |
Chem. 149A |
Chem. 149B |
Elective |
Elective |
Elective |
Elective |
|
SENIOR YEAR |
|
|
Chem. 114A |
Elective |
Elective |
Chem. 120A* |
|
Elective |
|
*Chem. 140C may be substituted.
Molecular Synthesis Major
The Molecular Synthesis major offers a thorough training in all
aspects of the molecular synthesis of organic, inorganic, and biological
substances, and with a fundamental understanding of their structure
and reactivity. This major provides an excellent preparation for
employment in biotechnology, diagnostic, electronic, and pharmaceutical
enterprises as well as for graduate programs in organic, bioorganic,
and inorganic chemistry.
The following courses must be taken for a letter grade:
Lower-Division Requirements
- General chemistry including laboratory (Chem. 6A-6C or 6AH-CH
and 6BL, or equivalent)
- Calculus (Math. 20A-D, or equivalent).
- Calculus-based physics including laboratory (Phys. 2A-B and
2D or equivalent, and either 2BL, 2CL or 2DL. Phys. 2CL is recommended
and is accessible without Phys. 2C).
Upper-Division Requirements
- Three quarters of organic chemistry (Chem. 140A-C or 141A-C)
- Three quarters of physical chemistry (Chem. 131-133)
- Two quarters of inorganic chemistry (Chem. 120A-B)
- One quarter of biochemistry (Chem. 114A)
- Six laboratory courses (Chem. 100A, 143A or 143AM, 143B-C, 105A,
and 123)
- Synthetic methods (Chem. 152)
- Structural or mechanistic organic chemistry (Chem. 154 or 156)
- Polymer, bioorganic, or bioinorganic chemistry (Chem. 107 or
124 or 157)
- One additional course from the following: Chem. 114B, 114C,
155, 185, or 199
Suggested Program for Molecular Synthesis B.S. Major
Many courses have enforced prerequisites or are offered once per
year.
FALL |
WINTER |
SPRING |
|
FRESHMAN YEAR
|
Chem. 6A |
Chem. 6B |
Chem. 6C |
Math. 20A |
Math. 20B |
Chem. 6BL |
|
|
Math. 20C |
|
SOPHOMORE YEAR |
Chem. 100A |
Chem. 141B |
Chem. 141C |
Chem. 141A |
Chem. 143AM |
Chem. 143B |
Math. 20D |
Phys. 2B |
Phys. 2CL |
Phys. 2A |
|
Phys. 2D |
|
JUNIOR YEAR |
|
|
Chem. 120A |
Chem. 120B |
Chem. 105A |
Chem. 131 |
Chem. 123 |
Chem. 133 |
Chem. 143C |
Chem. 132 |
|
|
SENIOR YEAR |
|
|
Chem. 114A |
Chem. 154/156 |
Chem. 107/124/157 |
Chem. 152 |
Elective |
|
|
Pharmacological Chemistry Major
The Pharmacological Chemistry major provides a strong background
in chemistry and includes most courses required by California pharmacy
schools. The major is intended primarily to prepare students for
pharmacy school (Pharm.D.). Students fulfilling their elective requirements
with appropriate courses would be prepared for graduate school to
obtain a Ph.D. in pharmacology, biochemistry, or other areas of
science. Degree recipients would also be prepared for most jobs
in the biotechnology and chemical industries.
Pharmacological chemistry students are strongly encouraged to complete
a full year of general chemistry and a full year of lower-division
biology. As with some medical programs, some pharmacy programs may
require a full year of these courses and may not accept tests such
as the Advanced Placement exam to satisfy these requirements.
The following courses must be taken for a letter grade:
Lower-Division Requirements
- Biology (BILD 1, 2 and 3, and either BICD 101, 111, 131, or
BIPN 105 or BIMM 121). Alternatively, a year of biology with laboratory
at a community college may be petitioned.
- General chemistry including laboratory (Chem. 6A-C or 6AH-CH,
and Chem. 6BL, or equivalent).
- Calculus-based physics including laboratory. (Phys. 2A-B and
2D or equivalent, and either 2BL, 2CL, or 2DL. Phys. 2CL is recommended
and is usually the course required by pharmacy schools. It is
accessible without Phys. 2C).
- Calculus (Math. 20A–D, or equivalent).
- Economics (Econ. 1 or 3 or equivalent).
- Pharmacology seminar (Chem. 92).
Most California pharmacy schools require a course in public speaking
for admission to the school. Students planning to apply to these
programs should take Introduction to Speech, Theatre THGE 25, or
an appropriate course at a community college.
Upper-Division Requirements
- Two quarters of physical chemistry (Chem. 126-127 recommended;
131133 acceptable).
- Three quarters of organic chemistry (Chem. 140A-C or 141A-C).
- Three quarters of biochemistry (Chem. 114A-B-C).
- Four laboratory courses (Chem. 100A, 143AM or 143A, 143B and
either 112A, 112B, or 143C).
- One quarter of pharmacology and toxicology (Chem. 118).
- One chemistry elective course chosen from among all the upper-division
and graduate courses offered by the Department of Chemistry and
Biochemistry (except non-letter graded courses).
If ACS certification is desired, Chem. 120A, plus two additional
laboratory courses (Chem. 105A and a lab chosen from Chem. 100B,
105B,
123, or 143C/112A/112B, if not already taken), are required.
Any of these courses would satisfy #6. above.
Suggested Program for Pharmacological Chemistry B.S. Major (ACS
certification requires additional courses)
Many courses have enforced prerequisites or are offered once per
year.
FALL |
WINTER |
SPRING |
|
FRESHMAN YEAR |
Chem. 6A |
Chem. 6B |
Chem. 6C |
Math. 20A |
Math. 20B |
Chem. 6BL |
|
BILD 1 |
Chem. 92 |
|
|
Math. 20C |
|
SOPHOMORE YEAR |
Chem. 100A |
Chem. 140B |
Chem. 140C |
Chem. 140A |
Chem. 143AM |
Chem. 143B |
Math. 20D |
Phys. 2A |
Phys. 2B |
|
JUNIOR YEAR |
|
|
Chem. 114A |
Chem. 114B |
Chem. 114C |
Chem. 143C* |
Econ. 1/3 |
BILD 3 |
Phys. 2D |
BILD 2 |
Phys. 2CL |
|
SENIOR YEAR |
|
|
Chem. 126 |
Chem. 127 |
Chem. 118 |
Elective |
Bio. lab** |
|
|
* Chem. 112A or 112B may be substituted.
** BICD 101, 111, 131, or BIPN 105 or BIMM 121 (some have prerequisites
that must be taken in an earlier quarter).
Honors Program
The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers an Honors Program
to those students who have demonstrated excellence in any of the
nine majors. Students are eligible for Departmental Honors at graduation
when they have:
- Achieved a GPA of 3.2 overall and 3.4 in chemistry courses.
- Completed a minimum of eight units of Chem. 199, distributed
over at least two quarters. A student who registers for 199 and
subsequently fails to complete the Honors Program may apply up
to four units to any major that normally allows 199 as elective
credit. A student who has successfully petitioned to use a Chem
199 course to fulfill elective credit may not use that course
to fulfill honors requirements as well.
- Submitted a final honors research report to three UCSD faculty
members, including their research adviser, for approval.
- Presented an oral report about their research before a group
of at least three faculty. This can be at an undergraduate research
conference or at a seminar involving honors students and faculty.
Students who are interested in the Honors Program should contact
the Undergraduate Coordinator in 4010 York Hall, and are invited
to do so at any time.
Education Abroad
Majors are encouraged to explore the programs that allow students
to study abroad or at other U.S. universities for a term or longer.
See an adviser for details.
Minor Program in Chemistry and Biochemistry
A typical minor in chemistry consists of three lower-division lecture
courses and at least one laboratory course, followed by a minimum
of five upper-division courses, including at least one laboratory
course, focused in physical, inorganic, organic, environmental chemistry,
or biochemistry. Lower-division course requirements may not be satisfied
by advanced placement credit, though transfer units may be used
to satisfy lower-division minor requirements.
Upper-division courses required by a students major may not
be applied toward a minor.
Upper-division courses for the minor must be taken at UCSD in the
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, and must be taken for
a letter grade. The minimum overall GPA requirement for the minor
is a 2.0.
The Graduate Programs
Graduate students are accepted to the Department of Chemistry and
Biochemistry
for study toward Plan I (Thesis) and the Plan II (Comprehensive
Examination) M.S. in chemistry, the Ph.D. In chemistry and the Ph.D.
In chemistry with specialization in bioinformatics. Students interested
in the bioinformatics specialization should contact the Student
Affairs Office for more information.
Masters of Science
A Plan I (Thesis) M.S. in chemistry and a Plan II (Comprehensive
Examination) M.S. in chemistry are offered.
Admissions: UCSD students are admitted for fall, winter,
and spring quarter entrance; non-UCSD students are admitted for
fall entrance only. Eligibility requirements for admission include
a solid training in the chemical sciences based on the undergraduate
record, a 3.0 GPA in chemistry courses completed, and a 3.0 overall
GPA.
The GRE general test is required of all applicants. Foreign applicants
must submit a TOEFL score; TWE scores are strongly recommended.
Those who wish to apply to the Thesis Plan must have a letter of
support from the proposed thesis adviser.
Residency and Time to Degree: Masters students must
register at UCSD for a minimum of three quarters, and complete at
least twenty units per academic year. Full-time Comprehensive Examination
Plan students can complete the degree in three quarters. Thesis
Plan students typically take eighteen to twenty-four months to graduate.
Relationship to Doctoral Program: Masters students
who wish to continue their studies as doctoral students in chemistry
and biochemistry must request to transfer to that program. Application
materials are due mid-January and include current letters of recommendation,
current UCSD transcript, and statement of purpose. Transfer is for
fall quarter only.
Plan I (Thesis)
Purpose: To prepare students for research careers or for
doctoral or professional studies; the emphasis is on research.
Advancement to Candidacy: A minimum of thirty-six units
with an overall GPA of 3.0 must be completed. The majority of units
taken are for thesis research (Chem. 299). At least eight units
of graduate level chemistry courses must be completed for a letter
grade. Four units of teaching apprenticeship are required (Chem.
500; see Doctoral Program, Teaching and Language Requirement sections).
Contact the Student Affairs Office for full information.
Thesis: Students must give an oral presentation and defense
of their thesis project to a Thesis Committee. A student graduates
after the thesis has been defended and the written dissertation
approved by his or her committee, department, and OGSR, and filed
with the University Archivist. The Thesis Committee consists of
at least three faculty: (1) the thesis adviser, (2) a faculty member
from the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry familiar with
the students research area, and (3) a faculty member from
either this or another department whose research is in an area different
from that of the thesis.
Plan II (Comprehensive Exam)
Purpose: To prepare students for doctoral or professional
studies; the emphasis is on course work.
Advancement to Candidacy: A minimum of thirty-six units
with an overall GPA of 3.0 must be completed. The majority of units
taken are in letter-graded graduate chemistry courses. Four units
of teaching apprenticeship are required (Chem. 500; see Doctoral
Program, Teaching and Language Requirement sections). Four units
of nonthesis research (Chem. 297) are allowed. Contact the Student
Affairs Office for full information.
Comprehensive Examination: The purpose of this requirement
is to confirm that students have achieved an advanced understanding
of, and a comprehensive training in, the chemical sciences. The
tests cover a wide range of material, so that students will have
a chance to show what they have learned. For masters students,
the department administers the standardized American Chemical Society
exams in biochemistry and in analytical, inorganic, organic, and
physical chemistry. Students must pass three of the five exams in
order to graduate. For doctoral students earning the M.S. on the
way to the Ph.D., the Departmental Examination fulfills this requirement.
Doctoral Program
The goal of the Ph.D. In chemistry is to prepare students for careers
in science by expanding their knowledge of chemistry while developing
their ability for critical analysis, creativity, and independent
study. The program is designed to encourage initiative and to stimulate
enjoyment and development of the students area of research
expertise as well as the broader aspects of scientific inquiry and
enlightenment.
Research
Students choose their research concentration from programs in biochemistry,
biophysics, bioinformatics, inorganic, organic, physical, analytical,
and theoretical chemistry, surface and materials chemistry, and
atmospheric and environmental chemistry. Opportunities for scientific
discovery are also abundant through the departments extensive
collaborations with investigators in the physical, biological, and
engineering sciences. This includes on-campus collaborations with
faculty in the Materials Science Program, School of Medicine, School
of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Scripps Institution
of Oceanography. There are also off-campus interactions with scientists
at nearby research facilities such as the Salk Institute and The
Scripps Research Institute. Excellent state-of-the-art facilities
and equipment support all the research programs. The departments
Industrial Relations Program interfaces with national and local
chemical, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical industries to encourage
technology transfer and to assist postgraduates interested in industrial
careers.
Research Adviser
A first-year faculty adviser guides students until a research adviser
is chosen. Most of a students efforts in graduate school are
directed toward research for the doctoral dissertation, and selection
of a research adviser is of utmost importance. To assist students
with this critical decision, all chemistry and biochemistry faculty
present research seminars in the fall quarter. Students then rotate
in laboratories or consult with faculty to discuss research opportunities.
Although students have until the end of the first year to join a
laboratory, most start their research studies by mid-year.
Placement Examinations and Course Work
Entering students take written placement examinations in analytical,
biochemistry, inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry. The purposes
of these exams are to assist with advising and to assure that students
have the breadth and level of competence needed for graduate studies.
Deficiencies must be remedied in the first year. Three of five exams
must be passed, including the one in the students research
area.
First-year students normally take at least six of the graduate
courses listed below based on the results of their placement examinations,
their research programs, and their specialized interests. Chem.
250 and Chem. 500 are required. Undergraduate courses and courses
offered through other departments may also be taken, depending on
the students research area. By the second year, the emphasis
is on thesis research, and a lighter load of courses is taken, although
participation in seminars and informal study groups continues.
Departmental Examination
In the winter quarter of the second year, a students progress
in research and graduate studies is evaluated through the departmental
examination, which includes presentation and critical discussion
of a recent research article. Students are also evaluated on their
general knowledge of their particular field of study. Students may
also be asked about progress on their dissertation.
Qualifying Examination
By the end of the third year, students defend the topic, preliminary
findings, and future research plans of their dissertation. Passing
this defense qualifies the student to advance to candidacy for the
dissertation. A dissertation committee composed of five faculty,
one of whom is the research adviser, provides consultation and evaluation
for the dissertation project.
Dissertation
The dissertation is normally completed in the fourth or fifth year.
This body of research is expected to make an innovative contribution
to the field of chemistry. Ph.D. candidates present a seminar summarizing
their research accomplishments and defend their thesis in an oral
examination before their dissertation committee.
Teaching
Experience in teaching is a vital and integral part of every graduate
students training, and all students participate in the instructional
activities of the undergraduate curriculum. Course credit for the
teaching apprenticeship is earned by enrolling in Chem. 500. Excellence
in teaching is stressed, and the department provides a thorough
training program covering the fundamentals of teaching as well as
other useful information and techniques for effective instruction.
Further training is provided by the campuss Center for Teaching
Development. Faculty and the students taught evaluate the performance
of teaching assistants every quarter and awards are bestowed annually
for outstanding performance as a teaching assistant.
Language Requirement
Students whose native language is not English must demonstrate
a mastery of English adequate to complete the teaching requirement.
Deficiencies must be remedied by the end of the first year of academic
residency. For native English speakers, there is no foreign-language
requirement.
Time Limits
In accordance with UCSD policy, students must advance to candidacy
by the end of four years. Total university support cannot exceed
six and one-third years. Total registered time at UCSD cannot exceed
seven and one-third years.
Seminars
Seminars by researchers from other universities, national laboratories,
and industry are another basic and important aspect of the graduate
curriculum. Seminars are presented weekly in biochemistry, inorganic,
organic, and physical chemistry. Department colloquia are given
on topics of general interest to the department. Seminars are also
sponsored by many other departments and institutes.
Financial Support
The department supports all first-year students in good academic
standing from a variety of sources, including teaching and research
assistantships, training grants, fellowships, and awards. A stipend
is paid in addition to fees and, if applicable, tuition. Continuing
students who do not have fellowships or awards are normally supported
on training grants or on research assistantships by their thesis
advisers.
Admissions
The department seeks bright, motivated doctoral students and welcomes
all such applications. To make admissions decisions, the department
considers an applicants statement of purpose and research
interests, GRE scores on the general test plus either the advanced
chemistry or advanced biochemistry test, undergraduate record, quality
of the undergraduate university, letters of recommendation, and
research experience and publications. Applicants whose native language
is not English must also submit TOEFL scores; TWE scores are strongly
recommended. Admissions to the doctoral program is for fall quarter.
Applications received by mid-January receive priority consideration.
Students who have a masters degree with strong course records
and with research experience are encouraged to apply. They normally
pass the Qualifying Examination and graduate at an accelerated pace.
Joint Doctoral Program with San Diego State University
The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at UCSD and the Department
of Chemistry at San Diego State University offer a joint program
of graduate study leading to the Ph.D. Degree in chemistry. More
information is available in the current edition of the Bulletin
of the Graduate Division of San Diego State University.
Chemistry and Biochemistry
|