The Department of Chemistry and Chemical
Biology offers two routes to the AB degree. The STANDARD
major provides a comprehensive background for those who plan
to go to graduate school in chemistry or a related subject. The
ALTERNATIVE major is a flexible program with a core of chemistry
courses and lots of room for a personalized plan in areas such
as biology, computer science, journalism, law, or business administration.
Both programs are designed to train students in logical thinking
and creative problem solving.
More than half of our chemistry majors
pursue graduate study in the sciences, including medicine. Others
go to graduate or professional school in other fields, while
some go directly into positions with chemical and pharmaceutical
companies.
Chemistry majors who wish to become secondary
school teachers participate in the five-year certification program
for teachers of secondary school science (grades 7-12). Students
in the program integrate coursework in education with the rest
of their undergraduate studies. Application to the program is
made during the sophomore year. Following the fifth year, students
are eligible for a master's degree from Cornell and a teaching
certificate from New York State.
Honors Seminar
In January of the senior year, outstanding
standard majors are invited to join the honors program. This
program is strongly recommended to those who plan graduate work
in chemistry. Admission to the honors program depends on obtaining
high grades in chemistry and related subjects and on good performance
in at least four credits of undergraduate research. Completion
of the honors program leads to the degree of Bachelor of Arts
with honors in chemistry.
Chemistry Major Application Form
Undergraduate Research
Students may apply to begin independent
research at any time their necessary preparatory coursework has
been completed. Independent research can then continue throughout
the student's career at Cornell. While all majors are encouraged
to pursue independent research, it is not required for either
the standard or the alternative major.
Undergraduate Students Involved in Research
in the
Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology:
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