Choosing Classes
Two different general chemistry sequences are offered: the two-quarter set of courses, Chem 31A/B, and the one-quarter course, Chem 31X. Both sequences fulfill the general chemistry requirement at Stanford and arrive at the same endpoint so that students will be prepared to enroll in Chem 33, the first quarter of organic chemistry. All students who are interested in taking Chem 31X and who do not have a score of 5 on the AP Chemistry Exam must take the Chemistry Placement test offered at the beginning of Autumn Quarter.
The Chemistry Placement test for NEW STUDENTS will take place on Wednesday, September 16, 2015 from 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM in Hewlett 201.
The Placement Test will also be available to RETURNING STUDENTS on Monday, September 21, 2015 from 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM in the Braun Lecture Hall (Mudd Chemistry building).
The recommended placement will be emailed to the student's SUNet account no later than noon the day following the test. Bring a pencil, eraser, calculator, Stanford ID card, and know your Stanford SUNet ID (i.e. your @stanford email name).
Students with moderate or no chemistry background:
The Chemistry Department offers a two-quarter general chemistry sequence, Chem 31A and 31B. This sequence covers all the essential topics in general chemistry over a two-quarter period with an emphasis on problem solving. Additionally, students with a less rigorous preparation in chemistry/math may be eligible to enroll concurrently in Chem 31AC and BC, which will provide additional practice and support with critical problem solving skills necessary for success in the sciences. Eligible students will be invited to apply at the beginning of the quarter. Chem 31A/B is only offered in the Autumn-Winter sequence, and 31A is a prerequisite for 31B. Students must decide in the Autumn to take the two-quarter track, or wait until the following year. Students who successfully complete the sequence can then go on to Chem 33 (Organic Chemistry) in the Spring. Please consult the Chem 31A course website for the syllabus and course calendar.
Students with strong chemistry background:
Those with a strong high school chemistry background may be eligible to take Chem 31X (offered Autumn quarter only). A score of 5 on the Chemistry AP Exam or a passing score on the Chemistry Placement Test are required to enroll in this course in Axess. Chem 31X covers the more advanced portions of the same topics covered in Chem 31A/B and moves at a faster pace.
Students with exceptional chemistry background:
Students who earned a 5 on the AP Chemistry Exam may also begin with Chem 33 in the Winter if desired. Students who choose to take Chem 31X or Chem 31A/B will forfeit their AP credit in chemistry. However, premedical students should be forewarned that not all medical schools accept AP credit, and thus a student may need to take either a general chemistry course or a more advanced chemistry course in order to qualify for some medical schools. It is therefore recommended that pre-med students with a 5 on the AP Chemistry Exam and who do not anticipate taking more advanced chemistry courses enroll in Chem 31X rather than enrolling directly in Chem 33.
Students under other circumstances should consult with the Undergraduate Affairs advisor, Professor Chris Chidsey (chidsey@stanford.edu).
Please consult the following Frequently Asked Questions for more information about General Chemistry.
EXAMPLE SCHEDULES
There are example schedules for the introductory chemistry course sequences - general and accelerated - incorporating a Traditional Concentration and Biological Chemistry Concentration on the ExploreDegrees site.
Chemistry Majors
Prospective and current majors should also consult the Stanford Bulletin for recommended course sequences.
Chemical Engineers
Chemical Engineering majors should contact the Chemical Engineering Department and consult the School of Engineering Handbook for required courses.
Biology Majors
Biology majors should consult the Biology Department website for information about requirements for the major.
Pre-Medical Students
The Office of Undergraduate Advising and Research contains useful information about pre-med requirements.