Who takes chemistry at RWU?

Students majoring in Marine Biology, Biology and Environmental Science are required to take at least four (4) semesters of chemistry as part of their major. Computer Science and Engineering Majors are required to take at least one (1), and in some cases two (2) or more semesters of chemistry as part of their major.

What is the entry sequence for chemistry?

Depending on the results of the on-line chemistry test, most students will start in CHEM 191, Principles of Chemistry I with Lab.  Students who do not demonstrate a minimum competency on the on-line placement test will be advised to defer taking this course.

What is CHEM 191?

CHEM 191 is intended for all science majors and for engineering and/or computer science majors for whom CHEM 191 is a major requirement.  The course examines the development of such concepts as the structure of matter, the chemical bond, the gas laws and solutions.  Laboratory is an integral and required component of the course.  It is a four (4) credit course.

Students who successfully complete CHEM 191 with lab during the fall semester of their freshman year will normally continue on into CHEM 192 with lab in the following spring semester.

Why will some students be advised to defer taking CHEM 191?

Students who lack sufficient skills in chemistry often struggle when faced with starting both their math and chemistry sequences during their first semester at RWU.  It has been our experience that such students are better prepared for CHEM 191 if they take it after successfully completing at least one semester of college-level mathematics at RWU.