Download Rice Chemistry Advising Booklet - Rice University Department of

Rice Chemistry Advising
Booklet
Spring 2016
1
Rice Chemistry
Undergraduate Advising Information (Spring 2016)
Last Updated: January 4, 2016
Table of Contents
Introduction to the Rice Chemistry Undergraduate Program .............................................................................. 3
Chemistry Major Advisors .................................................................................................................................. 4
Pursuing a Chemistry Degree ............................................................................................................................ 5
Frequently Asked Questions .............................................................................................................................. 6
Which Chemistry Class is Right for Me? ............................................................................................................ 9
Degree Requirements for the BS in Chemistry (for Matriculants in Fall 2014 or later) ...................................... 10
BS in Chemistry - Sample Degree Plan without Chemistry AP credit ............................................................... 11
BS in Chemistry - Sample Degree Plan with Calculus AB and Chemistry AP credit ......................................... 12
Degree Requirements for the BA in Chemistry (for Matriculants in Fall 2014 or later) ...................................... 13
BA in Chemistry - Sample Degree Plan without Chemistry AP credit ............................................................... 14
Degree Requirements for the BS in Chemical Physics .................................................................................... 15
BS in Chemical Physics - Sample Degree Plan without Chemistry AP credit ................................................... 16
BS in Chemical Physics - Sample Degree Plan with Calculus AB and Chemistry AP credit ............................. 17
Transfer Credit Policy ...................................................................................................................................... 18
Undergraduate Research Opportunities .......................................................................................................... 19
How Do I Find a Research Opportunity? ......................................................................................................... 21
Departmental Awards & Fellowships ............................................................................................................... 22
Appendix A: Chemistry Faculty and their Research Interests .......................................................................... 23
Appendix B: Degree Requirements for Matriculants Prior to Fall 2014............................................................. 25
Appendix C: Degree Requirements for the BS in Chemistry (for Matriculants Prior to Fall 2014) ..................... 27
Appendix D: Degree Requirements for the BA in Chemistry (for Matriculants Prior to Fall 2014) ..................... 29
Appendix E: Course Offerings 2015-2016 ....................................................................................................... 30
2
Introduction to the Rice Chemistry Undergraduate Program
Undergraduate students interested in studying chemistry benefit from Rice’s renowned faculty members and a
strong research program. The Department of Chemistry offers undergraduate chemistry majors a Bachelor of
Science (B.S.) degree or a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree. The Department also offers a Bachelor of Science
degree in Chemical Physics.
The B.S. in Chemistry degree rigorously prepares students for a career in chemistry or a related discipline,
and the degree requirements are consistent with the guidelines for certification by the American Chemical
Society. This curriculum provides a broad and comprehensive introduction to core areas of chemistry while
promoting depth of understanding in one or more specific fields. B.S. students complete a series of foundation
courses in general chemistry, analytical chemistry, biological chemistry, inorganic chemistry, organic
chemistry, and physical chemistry. Students then complete one or more specializations, or “tracks,” consisting
of in-depth courses both in-and-out of the specialization. The B.S. in Chemistry requires at least 128 credit
hours, including 68 credit hours of chemistry and at least 60 additional credit hours that satisfy the University's
graduation requirements.
The B.A. in Chemistry degree is a more flexible program that provides a comprehensive overview of all areas
of chemistry, including laboratory experiences, but can be coupled more easily with other majors or
professional career paths. The B.A. in Chemistry requires at least 120 credit hours, including 54 credit hours
of chemistry and at least 66 additional credit hours that satisfy the University's graduation requirements.
The B.S. in Chemical Physics degree is offered in conjunction with the Department of Physics and
Astronomy. Students take upper-level courses in both chemistry and physics, focusing on the applications of
physics to chemical systems. For more information on this option, contact Prof. Phil Brooks (Chemistry) or
Prof. Stan Dodds (Physics).
Follow Rice Chemistry!
Website: www.chemistry.rice.edu
- Our website contains all information on the Undergraduate program, as well as the Graduate program,
Alumni, departmental events and awards, and specific faculty research and news articles.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ricechemistry
- Our Facebook page includes notifications of all seminars and Department events and news as well as
all photos of Departmental events.
LinkedIn: Search ‘Groups’ for ‘Rice University Chemistry Department’
- Our LinkedIn page is updated every time we receive news on job opportunities for those in the field of
Chemistry.
Rice Chemistry Student Organizations
Owlchemy Club: The mission of the Owlchemy Club is to promote the study and enjoyment of chemistry
throughout Rice University and the Houston community. The members seek to promote general awareness
and enjoyment of all things chemistry and to provide a support network and source of companionship for those
studying chemistry and fields related to chemistry. Members perform chemistry demonstrations at the Houston
Museum of Natural Science and local schools. See more at www.owlchemy.blogs.rice.edu
American Chemical Society (ACS) Student Affiliates: Students can become an American Chemical Society
Student Affiliate through participation in the Owlchemy Club.
See more at: http://www.acs.org/content/acs/en/education/students/college/studentaffiliates.html
3
Chemistry Major Advisors
The Chemistry Department has one faculty advisor for every residential college so that each student can form
a consistent bond within the Department while completing their degree. Contact your Major Advisor with any
questions or concerns you may have – they’re here to help!
Baker College
Jones College
Sid Richardson College
Kristi Kincaid
[email protected]
Office: DBH 242
Phone: x5837
Bruce Weisman
[email protected]
Office: SS 111D
Phone: x3709
Lon Wilson
[email protected]
Office: DBH 353
Phone: x3268
Brown College
Lovett College
Wiess College
Zach Ball
[email protected]
Office: GRB E200C
Phone: x6159
Angel Marti
[email protected]
Office: DBH 320B
Phone: x3486
Christy Landes
[email protected]
Office: DBH 352
Phone: x4232
Duncan College
Michelle Gilbertson
[email protected]
Office: DBH 146
Phone: x2357
Martel College
Lesa Tran Lu
[email protected]
Office: DBH 142
Phone: x4079
Hanszen College
McMurtry College
Jeff Hartgerink
[email protected]
Office: BRC 319
Phone: x4142
Seiichi Matsuda
[email protected]
Office: GRB W300E
Phone: x4002
Will Rice College
Julianne Yost
[email protected]
Office: GRB E300B
Phone: x4459
Chemical Physics (all
colleges)
Phil Brooks
[email protected]
Office: SS 209
Phone: x3266
4
Pursuing a Chemistry Degree
The guide below is designed to help you explore your academic interests in chemistry that may ultimately lead
to graduate studies. While this guide assumes you plan to attend graduate school immediately after graduation
from Rice, some students opt not to attend immediately after completing their undergraduate degree, or
choose to join the workforce directly after graduation. Graduate schools expect you to have clearly defined
interests and relevant experiences leading to an area of specialization.
First Year
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Plan a tentative course of study with your Divisional
Advisor and/or Major Advisor.
Take at least one CHEM course, in addition to the
required MATH and PHYS courses.
Try to attend a meal, reception, or seminar to start
meeting CHEM faculty and students.
Visit the CCD to learn about the education and skills
required for possible careers in Chemistry.
Attend the Student Activities Fair and join
Owlchemy.
Identify summer programs and job opportunities
through the Chemistry website and the Rice Summer
Opportunities Fair.
Strongly consider making arrangements to conduct
research during the next academic year.
Second Year
•
•
Third Year
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Apply to attend a research conference or
symposium and consider presenting your
research.
Identify the area of graduate study you would like
to pursue and identify schools that have
programs in your field of choice.
Visit program website and informational sessions
to learn about programs.
Speak with faculty members, advisors, and other
mentors about programs.
Hone your list of programs, taking into
consideration curriculum, competitiveness, cost,
etc. Determine admissions requirements and
deadlines.
Begin preparing CV and personal statements.
Register and prepare for standardized tests.
Look for scholarship and fellowship
opportunities.
Request letters of recommendation from faculty.
Use the tips below, the General Announcements, the
OAA website, and the CHEM website to determine
your degree plan with your Major Advisor:
- Not all courses are offered every year. Plan
ahead to have flexibility in your schedule.
- Complete all lower level CHEM requirements by
the end of your 2nd year.
- Complete as many laboratory course
requirements as possible by the end of the
second year, which provides useful training for
independent research in future years.
- Check that you will complete at least the
minimum required hours (48) at the 300 level or
higher and that you will be able to complete at
least 60 hours outside of your major
requirements.
- If you have not yet enrolled in CHEM 391, make
arrangements to conduct research next year
(B.S. degree candidates are expected to
complete CHEM 391 before the end of their third
year.)
Apply for summer programs, research opportunities,
internships, and/or study abroad programs.
Fourth Year
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Continue completing degree requirements.
Complete and submit applications.
Check in with recommenders.
Request official transcripts from the Office of the
Registrar.
Plan time off and/or alternative plans to graduate
school.
Visit/interview with programs. Research the
programs before you visit.
Once you make a firm commitment, notify other
programs of your decision.
Send thank you notes to recommenders.
5
Frequently Asked Questions
The Basics
What’s the difference between Chemistry and Chemical Engineering? While there is much overlap
between the disciplines, the major differences between chemistry and chemical engineering have to do with
originality and scale. Chemists are more likely to develop novel materials and processes, while chemical
engineers are more likely to take these materials and processes and determine how to efficiently make/perform
them on a much larger scale.
Is it better to get a BS rather than a BA in Chemistry? Neither degree is necessarily "better" than the other
– it depends on your career path. Your specific experiences, coursework, and achievements during your time
at Rice are more important for job or graduate school applications than the type of degree you earn. With that
said, the BS degree is designed to provide the experiences necessary for a career in chemistry, including
pursuing graduate school or laboratory research jobs in chemistry-related fields. On the other hand, the BA
degree is designed for students interested in a broad range of careers that value scientific knowledge, rigorous
analytical skills, and quantitative abilities, but who are not interested in laboratory research. Health professions
and high school teaching are two examples of careers for which the BA degree is good preparation. Because it
has lower credit hour requirements, some students find the BA degree convenient as part of a double major.
Please seek advice from an academic advisor to determine which degree is best suited for your career path.
I want to earn degrees in both Chemistry and History. Can I do it? Yes, but you must decide whether you
would like to pursue a double major or a dual degree. A double major is not the same as a dual degree. A
double major is given by completing the requirements for a BA in two different disciplines. A dual degree is
given by completing the requirement for two different bachelor’s degrees (i.e. BA and BS) in two different
disciplines and at least 30 additional semester hours at Rice beyond the hours required for the first degree (or
the one requiring fewer hours). More information may be found in the General Announcements.
I will complete all of the requirements for my major but how can I be sure I have my 60 hours outside
the major? All courses not specifically applied to your major requirements count as "outside" the major, even
courses taken in the same discipline. For example, if you complete all the course requirements listed for a BA
in Chemistry and take two extra CHEM courses, those courses count toward the additional 60 hours needed to
graduate. Please review your Degree Works account with an academic advisor to audit your graduation
requirements.
For Freshmen
Should I take PHYS 101/102, PHYS 111/112, or PHYS 125/126? Both sequences will fulfill the physics
requirement for the BA and BS in Chemistry. PHYS 101/102 is intended for students majoring in engineering or
the physical sciences, PHYS 125/126 is intended for bioscience and premedical students, and PHYS 111/112
is intended for particularly well-motivated students with a strong interest in the physical sciences.
Which Chemistry class should I take as a freshman? Organic Chemistry (CHEM 211) is typically taken
during the second year at Rice, but some students with a very strong AP/IB Chemistry background are
adequately prepared to take this course during their freshman year. See the handout “Which Chemistry Class
is Right for Me?” for more information. CHEM 211 is offered in both the fall and spring semesters, so one
option is to start CHEM 211 in the spring semester and take either CHEM 121 in the fall or no chemistry at all.
This may be preferable if you have a challenging first semester, or simply want more time to adapt to college.
I have AP/IB Chemistry credit. Will this satisfy pre-health professions requirements? This is a question
that must be answered on a case-by-case basis. In general, AP/IB credit will satisfy some pre-medical
requirements for many, but not all, medical and other health professional schools. Students need to consult
with the Office of Academic Advising (OAA) or each school for their AP/IB policies.
6
Current Majors
Should I take CHEM 212 or CHEM 320? Both CHEM 212 and CHEM 320 count toward the undergraduate
chemistry degrees, and both are excellent courses that have been well-liked by students in recent years.
CHEM 212 is primarily taught as a large lecture course much like CHEM 211. CHEM 320 is a small course —
12 to 25 students — and is intended for students considering chemistry as a major and those in related fields
with a strong interest in chemical research. Taught in small groups, CHEM 320 minimizes traditional lecture
time, and significant course time is spent on small group problem-solving work and applying fundamental
concepts to new application, mechanism and arrow-pushing, and multistep synthesis. Memorization is deemphasized. Both courses use the same textbook, though CHEM 320 may cover 1-2 additional chapters of
material that are more important to chemists than a general audience. CHEM 320 also serves as an
introduction to the department and to independent research in chemistry. Some class discussion is designed to
help students find a research lab in chemistry and to work toward a career related to chemistry.
Can I pursue summer school, study abroad, and internship opportunities as a CHEM major? Chemistry
course credit earned from summer school and study abroad programs is allowed. Interested students should
refer to the Transfer Credit Policy found in this booklet and obtain approval from the transfer credit advisor in
advance of enrolling in summer coursework. The Department encourages student participation in study abroad
programs. Course substitutions completed through summer school and study abroad programs must be
approved through the Office of the Registrar and the Department of Chemistry. Most students who want to do
internships complete them in the summer, but academic-year internships are also possible. Please consult with
the Study Abroad office and an academic advisor to design a four-year schedule that allows for study abroad
and/or internship opportunities.
If I’m not doing well in one of my prerequisites, should I not be a CHEM major? Many successful
chemists have struggled in undergraduate courses. You can overcome adversity if chemistry is the field you
want to study. There are many reasons why students do not perform at their best, but there are tremendous
resources at Rice to help. However, it is the student’s responsibility to take initiative when they are struggling in
a course, and their greatest mistake is to wait too long before seeking academic assistance. Students should
consult their professor for help with a specific course, utilize their residential college’s Academic
Fellows/Mentor Society, and see an academic advisor to discuss options if they are struggling with multiple
courses.
Can I Pass/Fail a chemistry course as a CHEM major? Courses taken as Pass/Fail cannot be used to meet
major requirements. If such required courses are taken as pass/fail, the Office of the Registrar will replace the
P with the letter grade earned during the final degree audit. If you have multiple courses that could be used to
fulfill the same major requirement, address any potential problems with your major advisor prior to your final
degree audit.
I entered Rice before 2014. What degree requirements can I follow? You can either follow the guidelines
detailed in the General Announcements published during your matriculation year or during your anticipated
graduation year. Please refer to Appendix B-D for more information.
Can I earn credit for chemistry research? Yes, you may enroll in CHEM 391/491/492/493 to earn credit for
chemistry research. BS students must complete 8 credit hours of chemistry research (corresponding research
courses in other departments in Science and Engineering may be used towards this requirement with
departmental approval). CHEM 391 is the standard independent research course for first-time lab students,
while CHEM 491 is for continuing lab students that is repeatable for credit. The Chemistry Honors Research
Program, CHEM 492/493, offers students in their final year at Rice the opportunity to perform a two-semester,
individual chemistry research project. These courses function as a pair and must be taken in the same
academic year. Students must formally apply into CHEM 492/493 with the recommendation of their research
professor. The course requires students to complete a research proposal, a public presentation of findings, and
a formal report or thesis. For more information, refer to the “Undergraduate Research Opportunities” section.
How do I get involved in chemistry research? There are many ways to find research opportunities as a
Rice undergraduate. The most common method to join a lab in the Chemistry Department is to contact the
7
faculty member directly about working in their lab for course credit. For more information and suggestions,
please refer to the “How Do I Find a Research Opportunity?” section.
Life After Rice
What are some post-graduation options for me if I graduate with a CHEM degree (aside from medical
school or grad school)? You have many options, especially if you are not geographically limited. Often, these
are jobs in chemical industry (including biotechnology) or science education. However, there are also options
in conservation, science writing, science policy, scientific/medical illustration, forensic science, management
consulting, patent law, and many more areas. Please meet with your Chemistry major advisor and the Center
for Career Development for more information.
How important is my GPA for getting into graduate school? Admissions committees typically place
considerable weight on the GPA, especially in math and science courses. The admission committee will also
place a heavy emphasis on undergraduate research experience and the recommendation of the student’s
research mentor. However, every part of each student’s application is examined closely by the admissions
committee, so there is no single element that would make or break a student’s admission. Among other
factors, students with a strong research record that includes publication in a peer-reviewed journal are looked
upon favorably.
What are good resources for investigating my options and choosing graduate schools to apply to?
First, examine the American Chemical Society website. Second, speak with your Chemistry major advisor and
research advisor to find ideal graduate programs to which you should apply that best match your research
interests and career path.
8
Which Chemistry Class is Right for Me?
This document is designed to help you select the appropriate chemistry course to take during your first year.
For any questions, please refer to the notes below and consult an appropriate academic advisor.
CHEM 121/123 – General Chemistry and General Chemistry Laboratory
CHEM 121 is the first-year chemistry course most freshmen take. It is an introduction to chemical phenomena
emphasizing problems and methods in chemistry. Students must also register for CHEM 123, the laboratory
course that accompanies the lecture. Please refer to the CHEM 123 syllabus for important information
regarding lab enrollment.
CHEM 151/153 – Honors Chemistry and Honors Chemistry Laboratory
CHEM 151 is a first-year chemistry course aimed at students who plan on majoring in a chemistry-related field
and/or taking upper division chemistry courses. It is a deeper introduction to chemical phenomena
emphasizing principles and theories in chemistry. This course is strongly recommended for chemistry majors.
Students must also register for CHEM 153, the laboratory course that accompanies the lecture.
CHEM 211 – Organic Chemistry
CHEM 211 is often taken during the second year at Rice, but some students with a very strong AP chemistry
background should be adequately prepared to take this course during their freshman year. This course covers
the chemistry of aliphatic and aromatic compounds with emphasis on structure, functional groups, bonding,
and reaction mechanisms. CHEM 211 is offered in both the fall and spring semesters; some students elect to
wait until the spring semester to take CHEM 211, for a variety of reasons. There is no laboratory course
accompanying CHEM 211. The organic chemistry laboratory course (CHEM 215/217) is typically taken
together with the second-semester course (CHEM 212/320).
Notes:
1. Need CHEM credit? Not all degrees require chemistry beyond the first year–please check the General
Announcements for more information regarding specific degree requirements. All pre-health professional
tracks require at least one year of chemistry. AP Chemistry credit counts towards the Group 3 distribution
requirement. Of course, you may take additional chemistry coursework as an elective.
2. Confident? Many students who have AP Chemistry credit are not confident in their knowledge of
chemistry. This may depend on the quality and rigor of your high school courses, or it may depend on
how many years it has been since you took your AP course. Many students find it helpful to take General
Chemistry at Rice, and thus forgo their AP credit, to solidify their background for advanced chemistry
coursework or for professional school requirements. Students interested in majoring in chemistry are
strongly encouraged to speak to a major advisor to determine the best first-year course to take.
3. Consult OAA. Some medical schools may not accept AP credit for application to medical school. As
such, you should seek advice about whether to take your AP credit. Contact the Office of Academic
Advising (OAA) or refer to their website (www.oaa.rice.edu) for more information.
9
Degree Requirements for the BS in Chemistry (for Matriculants in Fall 2014 or later)
The BS in Chemistry requires at least 128 credit hours, including at least 68 credit hours of chemistry requirements
(below) and 60 additional credit hours that satisfy the University's graduation requirements.
General Chemistry
Course
CHEM 151/121
Semester Taken
Year Taken
Credits
3
CHEM 152/122
3
CHEM 153/123
1
CHEM 154/124
1
Chemistry Foundation
Course
CHEM 211
Semester Taken
Year Taken
Credits
3
CHEM 311
3
CHEM 312
3
CHEM 330
3
CHEM 360
3
BIOC 301
3
CHEM 220*
1
*CHEM 220 is recommended (not required) of all BS majors prior to
enrolling in CHEM 391, and expected of all juniors not yet enrolled in
CHEM 391.
Mathematics*
Course
MATH 101
Semester Taken
Year Taken
Credits
3
MATH 102
3
MATH 212/222
3
*The Department of Mathematics may, after consultation with a
student concerning his/her previous math preparation, recommend
that a student be placed into a higher level math course than that for
which the student has received official credit. The Department of
Chemistry will accept this waiver of the math classes upon a written
confirmation of the waiver from the Department of Mathematics and
upon the student’s successful completion of the higher level math
course.
Note: MATH 211 is encouraged for students interested in graduate
study.
Physics
Course
PHYS 101/111/125
Semester Taken
Year Taken
PHYS 102/112/126
Credits
3-4
4
Advanced Laboratories *Complete 3 of 5*
Course
CHEM 365
Semester Taken
Year Taken
Credits
2
CHEM 366
2
CHEM 367
2
CHEM 368
2
BIOC 311
2
Research *At Least Eight (8) Credit Hours*
Course
CHEM 391*
Semester Taken
Year Taken
Credits
**
**
**
*Normally completed before the end of junior year. Enrollment in
CHEM 391 (at least 3 credits) requires advance permission. See
course guide for details.
**Additional independent research or laboratory coursework in
chemistry must be completed to total eight (8) credit hours (including
CHEM 391). This requirement may be satisfied by taking one or
more of the following: (i) CHEM 491, (ii) CHEM 492 and 493, and (iii)
additional laboratory course(s) in chemistry at the 300-level or
above. Up to two (2) credits of CHEM 700 may be used toward this
requirement.
Advanced Work *Complete Twelve (12) Credit
Hours*
Each student must complete advanced work that satisfies one of the
specialization tracks listed below. A student may, with the approval
of the Director of the Undergraduate Program, propose a track in
another specialization. See the General Announcements for details.
Course
Semester Taken
Year Taken
Credits
Specialization in Biological and Medicinal Chemistry
CHEM 212/CHEM 320, BIOC 302, Six (6) additional credit hours
Specialization in Inorganic Chemistry and Inorganic Materials
CHEM 475, CHEM 495, Six (6) additional credit hours
Specialization in Organic Chemistry
CHEM 212/CHEM 320, CHEM 401, Six (6) additional credit hours
Specialization in Physical and Theoretical Chemistry
CHEM 420, CHEM 430, Three (3) credit hours from CHEM 415, 531,
or 559, Three (3) credit hours of advanced coursework in PHYS or
MATH
“Advanced coursework” includes CHEM 212, CHEM 320, BIOC 302, and chemistry
courses at the 400-level or higher. Courses in other departments at the 400-level or
higher with substantial chemistry content may count toward this requirement with
approval of the Director of the Undergraduate Program.
10
BS in Chemistry - Sample Degree Plan without Chemistry AP credit
FALL
FRESHMAN
CHEM 110
CHEM 151
CHEM 153
MATH 101
PHYS 101
FWIS/DIST
14 credits FRESHMAN
Freshman Chemistry Seminar
Honors Chemistry I
Honors Chemistry Laboratory I
Single Variable Calculus I
Mechanics (with lab)
FWIS/Distribution Course
SOPHOMORE
CHEM 211
CHEM 213
CHEM 220
MATH 212
DIST
OPEN
OPEN
JUNIOR
BIOC 301
CHEM 311
CHEM 366
CHEM 491
DIST
OPEN
SENIOR
CHEM 492
CHEM 4XX
CHEM 4XX
DIST
OPEN
SPRING
1
3
1
3
3
3
CHEM 152
CHEM 154
MATH 102
PHYS 102
DIST
LPAP
15 credits
Honors Chemistry II
Honors Chemistry Laboratory II
Single Variable Calculus II
Electricity & Magnetism (with lab)
Distribution Course
Lifetime Phys. Activity Elective
16 credits SOPHOMORE
Organic Chemistry I
Organic Chemistry Discussion
Undergrad. Chemistry Seminar
Multivariable Calculus
Distribution Course
Open Elective
Open Elective
3
0
1
3
3
3
3
CHEM 320
CHEM 360
CHEM 365
CHEM 391
DIST
OPEN
Biochemistry I
Physical Chemistry I
Inorganic Chemistry Lab
Research for Undergraduates
Distribution Course
Open Elective
3
3
2
3
3
3
CHEM 312
CHEM 330
CHEM 368
CHEM 491
DIST
OPEN
17 credits SENIOR
Undergrad. Honors Research
Advanced Chem. Lecture Course
Advanced Chem. Lecture Course
Distribution Course
Open Elective
5
3
3
3
3
CHEM 493
CHEM 4XX
DIST
OPEN
OPEN
17 credits
Organic Chemistry II
Inorganic Chemistry
Organic Chemistry Lab
Research for Undergraduates
Distribution Course
Open Elective
17 credits JUNIOR
3
1
3
4
3
1
3
3
2
3
3
3
17 credits
Physical Chemistry II
Analytical Chemistry
Chemical Measurement Lab
Research for Undergraduates
Distribution Course
Open Elective
3
3
2
3
3
3
17 credits
Undergrad. Honors Research
Advanced Chem. Lecture Course
Distribution Course
Open Elective
Open Elective
5
3
3
3
3
Total = 130 credit hours
Note: While the above sample degree plan suggests 19 credit hours of independent research, the BS degree requires
at 8 credit hours. There is a lot of flexibility in the completion of advanced coursework. However, not all courses are
taught every year – consult with your major advisor about your course plan.
11
BS in Chemistry - Sample Degree Plan with Calculus AB and Chemistry AP credit
FALL
FRESHMAN
CHEM 110
CHEM 211
CHEM 213
CHEM 366
PHYS 101
FWIS/DIST
OPEN
15 credits FRESHMAN
Freshman Chemistry Seminar
Organic Chemistry I
Organic Chemistry Discussion
Inorganic Chemistry Lab
Mechanics (with lab)
FWIS/Distribution Course
Open Elective
SOPHOMORE
BIOC 301
CHEM 220
CHEM 367
MATH 211
DIST
OPEN
JUNIOR
CHEM 311
CHEM 491
CHEM 4XX
DIST
OPEN
SENIOR
CHEM 492
CHEM 4XX
DIST
OPEN
SPRING
1
3
0
2
3
3
3
CHEM 320
CHEM 365
MATH 102
PHYS 102
DIST
15 credits
Organic Chemistry II
Organic Chemistry Lab
Single Variable Calculus II
Electricity & Magnetism (with lab)
FWIS/Distribution Course
15 credits SOPHOMORE
Biochemistry I
Undergrad. Chemistry Seminar
Materials Lab
Diff. Equations & Linear Algebra
Distribution Course
Open Elective
3
1
2
3
3
CHEM 330
CHEM 360
CHEM 391
MATH 212
DIST
16 credits JUNIOR
Physical Chemistry I
Research for Undergraduates
Advanced Chem. Lecture Course
Distribution Course
Open Elective
3
4
3
3
3
CHEM 312
CHEM 491
DIST
LPAP
OPEN
OPEN
14 credits SENIOR
Undergrad. Honors Research
Advanced Chem. Lecture Course
Distribution Course
Open Elective
5
3
3
3
CHEM 493
CHEM 4XX
DIST
OPEN
3
2
3
4
3
15 credits
Analytical Chemistry
Inorganic Chemistry
Research for Undergraduates
Multivariable Calculus
Distribution Course
3
3
3
3
3
17 credits
Physical Chemistry II
Research for Undergraduates
Distribution Course
Lifetime Phys. Activity Elective
Open Elective
Open Elective
3
4
3
1
3
3
14 credits
Undergrad. Honors Research
Advanced Chem. Lecture Course
Distribution Course
Open Elective
5
3
3
3
Total = 121 credit hours
Note: The above sample degree plan assumes that Calculus AB and Chemistry AP credit were earned upon entering
Rice, which would satisfy MATH 101 and CHEM 121/122/123/124, respectively. While the above sample degree plan
suggests 19 credit hours of independent research, the BS degree requires at 8 credit hours. There is a lot of flexibility
in the completion of advanced coursework. However, not all courses are taught every year – consult with your major
advisor about your course plan.
12
Degree Requirements for the BA in Chemistry (for Matriculants in Fall 2014 or later)
The BA in Chemistry requires at least 120 credit hours, including at least 54 credit hours of chemistry requirements
(below) and 66 additional credit hours that satisfy the University’s graduation requirements.
General Chemistry
Course
CHEM 151/121
Semester Taken
Physics
Year Taken
Credits
3
PHYS 101/111/125
3-4
CHEM 152/122
3
PHYS 102/112/126
4
CHEM 153/123
1
CHEM 154/124
1
Semester Taken
Year Taken
CHEM 211
CHEM 311/312
/BIOC 352
CHEM 311/312
/BIOC 352
CHEM 330
Advanced Laboratories *Complete 3 of 5*
Course
Semester Taken
Year Taken
Credits
CHEM 366
2
3
CHEM 367
2
3
CHEM 368
2
BIOC 311
2
3
3
BIOC 301
3
Mathematics*
Year Taken
Credits
2
3
Semester Taken
Year Taken
CHEM 365
CHEM 360
Course
Semester Taken
Credits
Chemistry Foundation
Course
Course
Credits
MATH 101
3
MATH 102
3
MATH 212/222
3
Advanced Coursework *Complete Six (6) Credit
Hours*
Six (6) credit hours of additional advanced coursework in
chemistry. For purposes of this requirement, “advanced
coursework” includes chemistry courses at the 400-level or
higher. CHEM 212 or CHEM 320 or BIOC 302 counts as
“advanced coursework” for purposes of this requirement.
Courses in other departments with substantial chemistry content
may count toward this requirement with approval of the Director
of the Undergraduate Program.
Course
Semester Taken
Year Taken
Credits
*The Department of Mathematics may, after consultation with a
student concerning his/her previous math preparation,
recommend that a student be placed into a higher level math
course than that for which the student has received official credit.
The Department of Chemistry will accept this waiver of the math
classes upon a written confirmation of the waiver from the
Department of Mathematics and upon the student’s successful
completion of the higher level math course.
Note: MATH 211 is encouraged for students interested in
graduate study.
13
BA in Chemistry - Sample Degree Plan without Chemistry AP credit
FALL
FRESHMAN
CHEM 151
CHEM 153
MATH 101
PHYS 101
FWIS/DIST
DIST
16 credits FRESHMAN
Honors Chemistry I
Honors Chemistry Laboratory I
Single Variable Calculus I
Mechanics (with lab)
FWIS/Distribution Course
Distribution
SOPHOMORE
CHEM 211
CHEM 213
MATH 212
DIST
OPEN
OPEN
CHEM 152
CHEM 154
MATH 102
PHYS 102
DIST
LPAP
Honors Chemistry II
Honors Chemistry Laboratory II
Single Variable Calculus II
Electricity & Magnetism (with lab)
Distribution Course
Lifetime Phys. Activity Elective
3
0
3
3
3
3
CHEM 320
CHEM 360
CHEM 365
DIST
OPEN
OPEN
Physical Chemistry I
Inorganic Chemistry Lab
Distribution Course
Open Elective
Open Elective
3
2
3
3
3
CHEM 312
CHEM 330
CHEM 368
OPEN
OPEN
15 credits SENIOR
Biochemistry I
Distribution Course
Open Elective
Open Elective
Open Elective
3
3
3
3
3
CHEM 4XX
DIST
OPEN
OPEN
OPEN
3
1
3
4
3
1
17 credits
Organic Chemistry II
Inorganic Chemistry
Organic Chemistry Lab
Distribution Course
Open Elective
Open Elective
14 credits JUNIOR
SENIOR
BIOC 301
DIST
OPEN
OPEN
OPEN
3
1
3
3
3
3
15 credits
15 credits SOPHOMORE
Organic Chemistry I
Organic Chemistry Discussion
Multivariable Calculus
Distribution Course
Open Elective
Open Elective
JUNIOR
CHEM 311
CHEM 366
DIST
OPEN
OPEN
SPRING
3
3
2
3
3
3
14 credits
Physical Chemistry II
Analytical Chemistry
Chemical Measurement Lab
Open Elective
Open Elective
3
3
2
3
3
15 credits
Advanced Chem. Lecture Course
Distribution Course
Open Elective
Open Elective
Open Elective
3
3
3
3
3
Total = 121 credit hours
Note: There is a lot of flexibility in the completion of advanced coursework. However, not all courses are taught every
year – consult with your major advisor about your course plan.
14
Degree Requirements for the BS in Chemical Physics
The BS in Chemical Physics requires at least 132 credit hours, including at least 72 credit hours of chemistry
requirements (below) and 60 additional credit hours that satisfy the University’s graduation requirements.
Additional Lecture Courses
General Chemistry
Course
CHEM 151/121
Semester Taken
Year Taken
Credits
3
CHEM 152/122
3
CHEM 153/123
1
CHEM 154/124
1
Chemistry Foundation
Course
CHEM 211
Semester Taken
Year Taken
Credits
3
CHEM 215
2
CHEM 311
3
CHEM 312
3
Physics Foundation
Course
PHYS 101/111
Semester Taken
Year Taken
Credits
3-4
PHYS 102/112
4
PHYS 201
3
PHYS 202
3
PHYS 231
1
PHYS 301
4
PHYS 302
4
Complete Nine (9) Credit Hours from: PHYS 311, PHYS
312, CHEM 360, CHEM 415, or CHEM 420
Course
Semester Taken
Year Taken
Credits
Additional Laboratory Courses
Complete Four (4) Credit Hours from: CHEM 365,
CHEM 366, CHEM 367, CHEM 368, PHYS 331, or
PHYS 332
Course
Semester Taken
Year Taken
Credits
Note: Up to two (2) hours of CHEM 491, PHYS 461, or PHYS
462 may be counted toward this requirement.
Additional Mathematics Courses
Complete Six (6) Credit Hours from MATH or CAAM
courses at or above the 300-level:
Course
Semester Taken
Year Taken
Credits
Mathematics Foundation
Course
MATH 101
Semester Taken
Year Taken
Credits
3
MATH 102
3
MATH 211/221
3
MATH 212/222
3
15
BS in Chemical Physics - Sample Degree Plan without Chemistry AP credit
FALL
FRESHMAN
CHEM 110
CHEM 151
CHEM 153
MATH 101
PHYS 101
FWIS/DIST
14 credits FRESHMAN
Freshman Chemistry Seminar
Honors Chemistry I
Honors Chemistry Laboratory I
Single Variable Calculus I
Mechanics (with lab)
FWIS/Distribution Course
SOPHOMORE
CHEM 211
CHEM 213
CHEM 220
MATH 211
PHYS 201
PHYS 231
DIST
OPEN
JUNIOR
CHEM 311
CHEM 391
PHYS 301
PHYS 331
DIST
OPEN
SENIOR
CHEM 415
CHEM 492
MATH 3XX
DIST
OPEN
SPRING
1
3
1
3
3
3
CHEM 152
CHEM 154
MATH 102
PHYS 102
DIST
OPEN
17 credits
Honors Chemistry II
Honors Chemistry Laboratory II
Single Variable Calculus II
Electricity & Magnetism (with lab)
Distribution Course
Open Elective
17 credits SOPHOMORE
Organic Chemistry I
Organic Chemistry Discussion
Undergrad. Chemistry Seminar
Ordinary Differential Equations
Waves and Optics
Elementary Physics Lab
Distribution Course
Open Elective
3
0
1
3
3
1
3
3
CHEM 215
CHEM 360
MATH 212
PHYS 202
DIST
LPAP
18 credits JUNIOR
Physical Chemistry I
Research for Undergraduates
Intermediate Mechanics
Junior Physics Lab I
Distribution Course
Open Elective
3
3
4
2
3
3
CHEM 312
CHEM 491
PHYS 302
DIST
OPEN
17 credits SENIOR
Chem. Kinetics & Dynamics
Undergrad. Honors Research
Advanced MATH Lecture Course
Distribution Course
Open Elective
3
5
3
3
3
CAAM 3XX
CHEM 493
CHEM 420
DIST
OPEN
3
1
3
4
3
3
15 credits
Organic Chemistry Lab
Inorganic Chemistry
Multivariable Calculus
Modern Physics
Distribution Course
Lifetime Phys. Activity Elective
2
3
3
3
3
1
17 credits
Physical Chemistry II
Research for Undergraduates
Intermediate Electrodynamics
Distribution Course
Open Elective
3
4
4
3
3
17 credits
Advanced CAAM Lecture Course
Undergrad. Honors Research
Classical & Stat Thermodynamics
Distribution Course
Open Elective
3
5
3
3
3
Total = 132 credit hours
Note: While the above sample degree plan suggests 17 credit hours of independent research, the BS degree in
Chemical Physics does not require any research credit. There is a lot of flexibility in the completion of advanced
coursework. However, not all courses are taught every year – consult with your major advisor about your course plan.
16
BS in Chemical Physics - Sample Degree Plan with Calculus AB and Chemistry AP credit
FALL
FRESHMAN
CHEM 110
CHEM 211
CHEM 213
PHYS 101
FWIS/DIST
OPEN
13 credits FRESHMAN
Freshman Chemistry Seminar
Organic Chemistry I
Organic Chemistry Discussion
Mechanics (with lab)
FWIS/Distribution Course
Open Elective
SOPHOMORE
CHEM 220
MATH 211
PHYS 201
PHYS 231
DIST
OPEN
JUNIOR
CHEM 311
CHEM 491
PHYS 301
PHYS 331
DIST
SENIOR
CHEM 415
CHEM 492
MATH 3XX
DIST
OPEN
SPRING
1
3
0
3
3
3
CHEM 215
MATH 102
PHYS 102
DIST
OPEN
15 credits
Organic Chemistry Lab
Single Variable Calculus II
Electricity & Magnetism (with lab)
Distribution Course
Open Elective
14 credits SOPHOMORE
Undergrad. Chemistry Seminar
Ordinary Differential Equations
Waves and Optics
Elementary Physics Lab
Distribution Course
Open Elective
1
3
3
1
3
3
CHEM 360
CHEM 391
MATH 212
PHYS 202
DIST
LPAP
15 credits JUNIOR
Physical Chemistry I
Research for Undergraduates
Intermediate Mechanics
Junior Physics Lab I
Distribution Course
3
3
4
2
3
CHEM 312
CHEM 491
PHYS 302
DIST
OPEN
17 credits SENIOR
Chem. Kinetics & Dynamics
Undergrad. Honors Research
Advanced MATH Lecture Course
Distribution Course
Open Elective
3
5
3
3
3
CAAM 3XX
CHEM 493
CHEM 420
DIST
OPEN
2
3
4
3
3
16 credits
Inorganic Chemistry
Research for Undergraduates
Multivariable Calculus
Modern Physics
Distribution Course
Lifetime Phys. Activity Elective
3
3
3
3
3
1
16 credits
Physical Chemistry II
Research for Undergraduates
Intermediate Electrodynamics
Distribution Course
Open Elective
3
3
4
3
3
17 credits
Advanced CAAM Lecture Course
Undergrad. Honors Research
Classical & Stat Thermodynamics
Distribution Course
Open Elective
3
5
3
3
3
Total = 123 credit hours
Note: The above sample degree plan assumes that Calculus AB and Chemistry AP credit were earned upon entering
Rice, which would satisfy MATH 101 and CHEM 121/122/123/124, respectively. Also note that There is a lot of flexibility
in the completion of advanced coursework. However, not all courses are taught every year – consult with your major
advisor about your course plan.
17
Transfer Credit Policy
The Department of Chemistry grants transfer credit for chemistry courses taken during the summer or during
study abroad programs according to the rules and procedures established in the Rice University General
Announcements and as administered by the Office of the Registrar.
In order to satisfy the Department's ruling on transfer credit, the course must typically be taken at a four-year
college or university that offers a degree in chemistry certified by the American Chemical Society (information
regarding certified programs is available on the ACS website). The course should be one that counts toward
the chemistry degree at that school. Prior to registration, students should obtain pre-approval using
the Undergraduate Request for Transfer Credit which is available from the Office of the Registrar.
Courses for transfer credit after matriculation for General Chemistry (CHEM 121 and/or CHEM 122) and the
laboratory (CHEM 123 and/or CHEM 124) must contain a laboratory component or must involve co-enrollment
in associated lecture and laboratory courses. Any student who has taken CHEM 121 and/or CHEM 122 at an
alternate institution must receive instructor approval to take the lab credit on the Rice campus.
Students should follow these steps to obtain transfer credit approval:
1. Complete an Undergraduate Request for Transfer Credit form, found on the Office of the Registrar’s
website (https://registrar.rice.edu/).
2. Write a cover letter describing why you wish to obtain transfer credit. Describe the start and end dates,
as well as the meeting times of the course during the term. This letter should include your contact
information (campus or local address, phone number, email address).
3. Obtain course syllabus and copies of materials from the college or university showing the course
number, course description and enough information to indicate that the course to be taken is the
equivalent that chemistry majors take at Rice.
4. Deliver all materials to the Undergraduate & Classroom Coordinator, located in Dell Butcher Hall, room
243. Questions concerning transfer credit should be directed to the Undergraduate & Classroom
Coordinator at 713-348-4027.
5. You may elect either to pick-up the processed form or to have it returned via campus mail. Please allow
one-week for processing of the transfer credit request.
18
Undergraduate Research Opportunities
Undergraduate students have a unique opportunity to perform research in one of our many interdisciplinary
research labs. Chemistry majors seeking a B.S. degree are required to take at least eight credit hours of
research through CHEM 391, 491, 492, and 493.
Most chemistry research students are chemistry majors. Although many work with Rice Chemistry professors,
we also encourage and support students doing research in other Rice science departments, or even outside
the University, most commonly at labs in the Texas Medical Center. In the first semester of independent
research, students should enroll in CHEM 391 for at least 3 credit hours before the end of their junior year.
Prior to enrollment, students must secure a position in a laboratory. In subsequent semesters, students should
enroll in CHEM 491 for independent research (or CHEM 492/493 for honors thesis research), and may choose
the credit hours in consultation with their research advisor. Students should expect to spend 3 hours/week for
each credit-hour (or 42 hours per semester). This implies at least 9 hours in the lab for a 3-hour course, or 12
hours for a 4-hour course, each week. CHEM 491 is repeatable for credit and students wishing to pursue
graduate school or other careers in research and applied science are encouraged to gain as much research
experience as possible. Students are not limited to one lab, and may choose another lab in subsequent
semesters. A major advantage of continuing in one lab may include obtaining results to co-author a publication.
Undergraduate Honors Research, CHEM 492 (Fall) and CHEM 493 (Spring):
The Chemistry Honors Research Program, CHEM 492/493, offers students in their final year at Rice the
opportunity to perform a two-semester, individual chemistry research project. These courses function as a pair
and must be taken in the same academic year. Course requirements include (but are not limited to) completing
a research proposal, a public presentation of findings, and a formal research report or thesis in the spring term.
Students must formally apply into CHEM 492/493 with the recommendation of their research professor. If you
are conducting research for a thesis outside the Chemistry Department you must have an on-campus
Chemistry Department secondary advisor. Applications must be submitted to the course instructor February 1 August 1 (early application submission is highly encouraged). Students who complete the Chemistry Honors
Research Program are given primary consideration for "Distinction in Research and Creative Work," a
university award for select undergraduates, chosen by the Department and granted at commencement, which
appears on the transcript and diploma.
How do I register for Undergraduate Research?
First, start planning far in advance. The deadline for course enrollment is several weeks before the start of the
semester. Some labs may have extensive laboratory or safety training that must be completed before the start
of the semester. Labs at the Texas Medical Center often have access control regulations that require filling
paperwork months in advance of starting in the lab.
You must fill out the application found on the Chemistry Department webpage. The information provided in this
application can be used to apply for all Chemistry research, including for a thesis or for Honor’s Research.
Once you have submitted this application, you must fill-out the Undergraduate Special Registration form from
the Office of the Registrar (http://registrar.rice.edu/online_forms/) and bring it to the Course Advisor to be
signed before being brought back to the Office of the Registrar.
If you are conducting research off-campus in the medical center your Research Advisor must email the Course
Advisor in support of your research with them.
Summer Research Opportunities:
In addition to CHEM 391, 491, 492 and 493, a limited number of opportunities exist for undergraduates to do
research during the summer. The summer research opportunities include the Dr. Paul S. Engel Fellowship, the
George Holmes Richter Memorial Fellowship and the Zevi & Bertha Salsburg Memorial Fellowship in
Chemistry. These are sometimes paid positions, as opposed to being taken for credit. Information regarding
applying for these summer opportunities will be sent to all students on the Chemistry Undergraduate listserv in
the late Fall of each academic year. To join the listserv, email [email protected].
19
Opportunities in the Rice Chemistry Department:
If you are a chemistry major, you probably want to begin by looking for positions in the chemistry department.
Positions are generally not advertised, so the best approach is simply to investigate web pages and contact
any faculty member whose research interests you regardless of whether research opportunities have been
posted. To find out which faculty members are working in areas that you find intriguing, see the Chemistry
Department website (http://chemistry.rice.edu/Content.aspx?id=123) and select an area of interest.
Opportunities elsewhere:
If you have a particular research interest that is not found among the current Chemistry faculty, you may find a
faculty member elsewhere on campus or in the medical center willing to host you. You must then have the
project approved by the CHEM491 instructor. To be approved, the research should have something to do with
chemistry (defined broadly) and should be set up to provide a positive research experience. If you are
interested in a particular lab or type of research outside the guidelines mentioned above, discuss this with the
CHEM491 instructor to see if it would be appropriate.
Research in labs at the Texas Medical Center (TMC)
The Texas Medical Center holds enormous possibilities to do research, and students who are headed to
medical school might be particularly interested in the possibility of working at the medical center. Nevertheless,
several factors complicate off-campus research, which should not be taken lightly.
1) Travel time - The round trip takes 30-60 min and reduces the amount of time you have to spend in the
lab.
2) Hard to drop in for a few minutes - Sometimes when you have a break between classes you will want to
drop into lab for a few minutes to start a reaction, check on an analytical run or a calculation, or talk to
your professor. These few minutes can often give you a head start or eliminate waiting time when you
have your next block of time in the lab. The distance problem can preclude popping in and out of an offcampus lab.
3) Cultural differences between Rice and other TMC institutions - Most labs at the medical center are less
accustomed to working with undergraduate researchers and may be less accommodating of
undergraduate schedules and instructional needs.
4) Paperwork and safety training courses - Additional paperwork and safety training courses are required
for most off-campus labs, so you will have to budget extra time to complete these before beginning
research.
However, students who have prepared for these complexities have an unusual opportunity to undertake
medical research as an undergraduate student. A hybrid approach is to join a Rice lab that works closely with
TMC faculty. Please see the course instructor if you’d like leads in these directions.
20
How Do I Find a Research Opportunity?
Where do I start?
Look at the various research summaries of the faculty on the Chemistry Department website:
http://chemistry.rice.edu/Faculty.aspx?id=106 . Most students joining a lab have some background in inorganic
chemistry from a general chemistry course or CHEM360 students, and many will have taken organic. You may
not have taken courses in other areas of chemistry by the time you join a lab, but you can envision many
interfaces between chemistry and other fields. Physical chemistry is a great direction to go if you like physics
and chemistry, and bio-organic chemistry is the interface between biological chemistry and organic. People
who have strong interests or background in mathematics and/or computer science might consider becoming
theoreticians or computational chemists. Rice has a rich history of excellence in nanotechnology, which has
applications in almost all areas of chemistry, from biochemistry to materials science.
There are lots of options for undergraduate research, but do not be overwhelmed by them! It’s not possible to
collect all of the information about every lab and then put the data through some algorithm to identify the best
lab for you. Random circumstance often governs which lab a student joins- many labs are particularly popular
at one college because many people join the lab where their friends work. Look for a lab that is interesting to
you. Talk to juniors and seniors, as well as your graduate student TAs, about their lab experiences. Which labs
do they recommend? Contact chemistry professors with whom you’ve taken classes for advice about labs. The
course instructor is happy to meet with you to help identify a good match. If you are serious about joining a
particular research group, visit the lab, ask to meet the undergrads already working there, and inquire as to the
best method of approaching that particular professor.
Compensation
Most undergraduate research during the school year is done for CHEM 491 credit. In many labs, paid positions
during the school year are limited to lab maintenance or very routine work, and actual research will only be
available for students working for credit during the academic year. However, many labs offer some paid
positions over the summer. Some professors do try to set up paid research positions during the school year for
students who are eligible for work-study.
How do I contact professors with whom I might want to work?
Do your homework. Most positions are not advertised, but are filled from among the students who contact
faculty members. Read about each lab’s research and try to talk with current group members to get a feel for
the personality and expectations of the faculty member. Write a personal email to the faculty member. Do not
send a mass email to multiple faculty members or your email will be considered spam and ignored.
Your introductory email conveys an important first impression and can influence how easy it will be for you to
find a lab home. All heads of research labs have either a PhD or an MD degree and should be addressed as
“Prof.” or “Dr.” or and not “Ms., Mrs., or Mr.” In your email, tell the professor who you are (name, year at Rice),
why you are looking for a position in a research lab, and why you are interested in his or her lab in particular.
Describe any relevant course work or prior research experience, even if it was in high school. You also may
want to include whether you are looking for a short (1 semester) or longer experience, and how many hours
per week you can commit to lab work. If you are considering graduate school after Rice, include this interest in
the letter.
How many labs should I contact?
Getting into a lab is partly timing and luck, so do not be discouraged if your first efforts are not successful. It’s
usually necessary to contact several labs to find a position. If you know someone in a lab where you want to
work, ask that person to put in a good word for you. If you are not successful after several attempts, you may
wish to ask the course instructor for feedback on your contact letter.
Additional information about research opportunities and finding an advisor can be found by contacting the
course instructor.
21
Departmental Awards & Fellowships
Undergraduate students have several opportunities to win awards and summer research fellowships from the
Department of Chemistry. Below is information providing the background of each award. Information on how to
apply for any of the summer research fellowships will be sent out to the Chemistry Undergraduate listserv near
the end of the Fall semester. Be on the lookout!
Paul S. Engel Fellowship
Awarded to a promising chemistry
undergraduate in partial support of
a chemistry summer research
internship
Arthur L. Draper Award
Awarded in recognition of
exceptional undergraduate
performance in chemistry
coursework
George Holmes Richter Memorial
Fellowship
Awarded to a promising chemistry
undergraduate in partial support of
a chemistry summer research
internship
Richard Turner Memorial Award
Awarded in recognition of
outstanding undergraduate
achievement in organic chemistry
Zevi & Bertha Salsburg Memorial Fellowship in Chemistry
Awarded to a promising chemistry undergraduate in partial support of a chemistry summer
research internship
Zevi & Bertha Salsburg Memorial Award in Chemistry
Awarded in recognition of outstanding undergraduate chemistry students
Distinction in Research & Creative Work
The Distinction in Research and Creative Work is a University award for select undergraduates, granted at
commencement, which appears on the transcript and diploma. More specifically, in the Chemistry Department,
this award recognizes Rice B.S. chemists whose research discoveries will form a substantial component of an
important publication. The submission and review processes are often not fast enough for researchers to see
their work in print before graduation. A pre-publication formal description of the research (e.g., a submissionready manuscript or a CHEM 492/3 Honors Thesis or the equivalent) with a detailed accounting of the
nominee’s contribution and those of other authors is sufficient. Applicants must also be in good academic
standing and have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.30 in courses completed at Rice.
Required Application Materials:
1.
Declaration of intention to apply for this distinction.
2.
Documentation of research achievement in the form of published papers, theses, pre-publication
manuscripts, electronic files of presentations (PowerPoint or poster) given off-campus.
3.
A supporting letter from the research advisor which should detail the student’s research
accomplishments and intellectual contributions.
Deadline for Final Submission of Materials: April 24th of semester before graduation
Please send all application materials to Sofia Medrano: [email protected]
22
Appendix A: Chemistry Faculty and their Research Interests
Our Department’s faculty have a wide variety of research interests and hold joint appointments with
Biosciences, Bioengineering, Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Computer Science, Earth Science,
Electrical & Computer Engineering, Material Science & Nanoengineering, Physics & Astronomy, and Civil &
Environmental Engineering.
3,7
Pulickel Ajayan , PhD (Northwestern, 1989). Multifunctional nanostructures and hybrid platforms for
energy storage, composites, sensors, electronics, and
biomedicine.
7,9
2
Jeffrey D. Hartgerink , PhD (Scripps, 1999). Selfassembly of nanostructured materials with a focus on
molecular structures of proteins and peptide based
biomaterials for tissue regeneration, drug delivery and
other biomedical applications.
Pedro J. Alvarez , PhD ( U of Michigan, 1992).
Bioremediation of contaminated aquifers, fate and
transport of toxic chemicals, and environmental
implication and application of nanotechnology.
John S. Hutchinson*, PhD (UT Austin, 1980). Theory
of the dynamics of reactive molecular species.
Zachary T. Ball, PhD (Stanford, 2004). Current
research includes reaction discovery, biomimetic
catalysis, and organometallics for biology and medicine.
Anatoly B. Kolomeisky , PhD (Cornell, 1998).
Theoretical physical chemistry, biophysics and statistical
mechanics. Modeling of biological transport systems
and protein-DNA interactions, and investigation of
nanocars and other artificial nanoscale devices.
7
Enrique Barrera , PhD (UT Austin, 1987). Formation of
hybrid nanotube materials and the development of fully
integrated nanotube composites.
7
Andrew R. Barron , PhD (Imperial College, U of
London, 1986). Chemistry, nanoscale science and
materials science of the Group 13 elements leading to
the development of new materials and catalysts.
W. E. Billups*, PhD (Penn State, 1970). Synthesis of
new molecular systems of theoretical interest, fullerene
chemistry and the chemistry of free metal atoms.
Philip R. Brooks*, PhD (U of California, Berkeley,
1964). Physical Chemistry. Molecular-beam studies of
chemical reaction dynamics.
3
Cecilia Clementi , PhD (International School for
Advanced Studies, 1998). Theoretical and
computational investigation of protein folding, protein
interactions and functions.
2
Michael Diehl , PhD (UCLA, 2002). Biomotor
cooperativity, biomaterials, supramolecular biophysics
and molecular
bioengineering.
Paul S. Engel*, PhD (Harvard, 1968). Free radical
initiators, inhibitors of polymerization, free radical of
single walled carbon nanotubes with organic free
radicals.
8
Jason H. Hafner , PhD (Rice, 1998). Application of
nanometer-scale tools and materials to problems of
biological and biomedical interest.
2,6,7,8
, PhD (Bryn Mawr, 1987).
Naomi J. Halas
Nanofabrication chemistry and nano-optics.
3
László Kürti, PhD (UPenn). Synthetic Organic
Chemistry. Specializes in the development of new
catalytic asymmetric transformations, modes of chirality
transfer, methods for the synthesis of bioactive N- and
O-heterocycles as well as novel aminating agents &
transition metal-free amination reactions.
6
Christy F. Landes , PhD (Georgia Tech, 2003).
Experimental physical, biophysical, and nanomaterials
physical chemistry; single molecule spectroscopy.
Dynamic complexity and its role in biological and
synthetic polymer functions.
6
Stephan Link , PhD (Georgia Tech, 2000). Physical
chemistry of nanomaterials, nanophotonics and
plasmonics, spectroscopy of individual & coupled
nanoparticles with applications in opto-electronics,
energy, and medicine.
7
Jun Lou , PhD (Princeton U). Nanomaterial synthesis,
nanomechanical characterization and nanodevice
fabrication for energy, environment and biomedical
applications.
2,7
Angel Marti , PhD (U Puerto Rico, 2004).
Development of molecules to diagnose and treat
disorders that involve protein aggregates, e.g.
Alzheimer’s; development of supramolecular materials
based on nanoscale building blocks.
5
Carrie Masiello , PhD (U of California, Irvine, 1999).
Fundamental mechanisms of the carbon cycle, carbon
sequestration, climate change, black carbon, terrestrialriver-ocean biosphere interactions.
1
Seiichi P. T. Matsuda , PhD (Harvard, 1994).
Bioorganic and organic chemistry, terpenoid
biosynthesis, enzyme evolution, redesign of enzymes to
23
have new activities, and genomic approaches to find
biologically active molecules.
3,7
Antonios G. Mikos , PhD (Purdue U, 1988). Synthetic
biodegradable polymers as supportive scaffolds for cells,
as conduits for guided tissue growth, as specific
substrates for targeted cell adhesion, or as stimulants for
a desired cellular response.
7,8
Emilia Morosan , PhD (Iowa State, 2005). Design and
synthesis of novel magnetic and superconducting
materials.
K.C. Nicolaou, PhD (U London, 1972). Specializes in
organic chemistry with a focus on the synthesis of
natural and designed molecules of biological and
medical importance to cancer research.
8
Jose Onuchic , PhD (Harvard, 1976). Theoretical and
computational methods for molecular biophysics and
chemical reactions in condensed matter; protein folding
funnels as a mechanism for the folding of proteins.
3,7
Matteo Pasquali , PhD (Minnesota, 1999). Interaction
of flow and liquid micro- and nanostructure in complex
fluids, with application to the manufacturing of
engineered materials.
1
George Phillips , PhD (Rice, 1976). Three-dimensional
structure and dynamics of proteins to their biological
functions, computational biology.
7
Emilie Ringe , PhD (Northwestern, 2012). Atomic
resolution and three dimensional elemental mapping of
alloy nanoparticles relevant for catalysis applications.
Peter Rossky, PhD (Harvard, 1978). The elucidation of
the fundamental molecular-level origins of chemical
behavior in condensed phases and clusters.
7,8
Gustavo E. Scuseria , PhD (U Buenos Aires, 1983).
Development of theoretical and computational quantum
chemistry techniques (many in the Gaussian program).
Application of quantum mechanics to predict the
structure and properties of molecules.
6,7
Isabell Thomann , PhD (U of Colorado, Boulder).
Energy, photocatalysis, ultrafast spectroscopy and
nanophotonics.
3,7
Ned Thomas , PhD (Cornell, 1974). Polymer physics
and engineering, photonics and phononics and
mechanical and optical properties of block copolymers,
liquid crystalline polymers, and hybrid organic-inorganic
nanocomposites.
4,7
James M. Tour , PhD (Purdue, 1986). Organic
chemistry, materials science, polymer chemistry,
nanoscience, and nanotechnology.
7
R. Bruce Weisman , PhD (U Chicago, 1977). Basic
studies of carbon nanotube spectroscopy and
photophysics and related analytical, mechanical
engineering and biomedical applications.
Kenton H. Whitmire, PhD (Northwestern, 1982).
Inorganic and organometallic chemistry, precursor
design for advanced nanomaterials, structural and
mechanistic chemistry, catalysis, bioactivity of heavy
main group elements.
Lon J. Wilson*, PhD (U Washington, 1971).
Nanoparticle development in biology and medicine.
Nanotechnologically-enhanced medical imaging and
therapeutic agents.
8,7
Peter G. Wolynes , PhD (Harvard, 1976). Theoretical
chemical physics, theory of glasses, protein dynamics
and folding. Stochastic cell biology.
3,7
Michael S. Wong , PhD (MIT, 2000). Chemical
engineering, chemistry, and materials science, functional
nanoparticle-based materials.
7
Boris I. Yakobson , PhD (Russian Acad. of Sciences,
1982). Theory and modeling of materials derived from
macroscopic and fundamental molecular interactions.
Junrong Zheng, PhD (Stanford, 2007). Development of
multiple-dimensional vibrational spectroscopic
techniques to probe interfacial chemical and biological
questions.
7
Eugene R. Zubarev , PhD (Russian Acad. of Sciences,
1998). Organic chemistry and polymer chemistry,
synthesis and characterization of self-assembling
molecules.
*currently not taking students
24
Appendix B: Degree Requirements for Matriculants Prior to Fall 2014
The degree requirements prior to Fall 2014, including a letter from Professor Zachary Ball detailing the
changes, are in the following pages.
Dear Chemistry Majors and Advisors:
This letter answers a few questions that have come up regarding changes to the graduation requirements. You
have the option of graduating under either the “old” General Announcements in place when you started at
Rice, or under the new General Announcements in place when you graduate. For most current students, we
anticipate that most students will prefer to graduate under the “old” General Announcements in place
when you started at Rice. However, you are certainly welcome to consider both options.
You must complete either ALL the old requirements or ALL the new requirements. You may not pick and
choose. However, the table given under “Lab Course Requirements” describes combinations of “old” and
“new” labs that can be used to complete the graduation requirements under either the previous General
Announcements or the new 2014 General Announcements. That is, for example, CHEM 231, CHEM 365,
and CHEM 368 are sufficient to fulfill BS graduation requirements under both the previous General
Announcements or the new 2014 General Announcements.
Changes in Lab Course Requirements
BS: Important notes: CHEM 215 does NOT count as a laboratory course for purposes of this chart for the BS
degree. Credit for CHEM 215 (taken BEFORE Fall 2014) can be used to fulfill part of the research requirement.
Credit for CHEM 700 does not count toward the BS lab requirements.
“old” lab courses
completed
0
1
2
3
4
5
↔
↔
↔
↔
↔
↔
BS
“new” lab courses
needed
3
2
2
1
1
N/A
credit
hours*
6
5
6
5
6
BA: Credit for CHEM 215 (taken BEFORE Fall 2014) DOES count as a laboratory course for purposes of this
chart for the BA degree. Of the three required labs, at least two must come from the list of “core” labs (CHEM
231, CHEM 232, CHEM 353, CHEM 365, CHEM 366, CHEM 367, CHEM 368).
Credit for CHEM 700 does not count toward the BA lab requirements.
BA
“old” lab courses
completed
0
1
2
3
↔
↔
↔
“new” lab courses
needed
3
2
1
0
credit
hours*
6
5
4
3-4
25
Future lab course schedule
• CHEM 365 Organic Chemistry Laboratory (spring term starting Spring 2015)
• CHEM 366 Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory (fall term starting Fall 2014)
• CHEM 367 Materials Chemistry Laboratory (fall term starting Fall 2015)
• CHEM 368 Chemical Measurement Laboratory (spring term starting Spring 2015)
• BIOC 311 Advanced Experimental Biosciences (offered every year)
and
•
•
CHEM 395 Advanced Module in Green Chemistry (offered Spring 2015) There is no guarantee that it
will be taught after Spring 2015.
CHEM 372 Advanced Module in the Synthesis and Characterization of Fullerene Compounds (offered
Spring 2015) There is no guarantee that it will be taught after Spring 2015.
Changes in Math requirements. MATH 101, MATH 201, MATH 212 will be required for both BS and BA
degrees. MATH 211 will no longer be required.
Changes in PChem requirements. Two semesters will be required for both degrees (B.A. and B.S.). This
generally implies CHEM 311 and CHEM 312, but other courses (CHEM 310 and CHEM 430, for example) are
acceptable.
CHEM 310 will be taught Fall 2014 & Fall 2015. There is no guarantee that it will be taught after Fall 2015.
This may affect scheduling for current freshmen.
CHEM 311 will be taught Fall 2016. There is no guarantee that it will be taught before then.
CHEM 312 will be taught Spring 2017. There is no guarantee that it will be taught before then.
Changes in Research Requirements
We are moving from 3 semesters of required research to 8 credit hours of required research.
Changes in course requirements. The requirements for upper-level (generally 400+) work have been
changed to specifying credit hours rather than number of courses. This change allows undergraduates to take
advantage of 1.5-credit, half-semester courses. Two 1.5-credit courses count the same as one 3-credit course
for all students, regardless of matriculation year.
If you have additional question, please see the Chemistry advisor for your college.
Sincerely,
Zachary T. Ball
26
Appendix C: Degree Requirements for the BS in Chemistry (for Matriculants Prior to Fall 2014)
This degree requires at least 124 credit hours, including 64 credit hours of chemistry requirements and at least 60 additional credit
hours to satisfy distribution requirements. The following courses are required for all students pursuing the Bachelor of Science
degree in Chemistry:
General Chemistry:
☐CHEM 151 Honors Chemistry I or CHEM 121 General Chemistry I
☐CHEM 152 Honors Chemistry II or CHEM 122 General Chemistry II
☐CHEM 153 Honors Chemistry Laboratory I or CHEM 123 General Chemistry III
☐CHEM 154 Honors Chemistry Laboratory II or CHEM 124 General Chemistry IV
Chemistry Foundation Courses:
☐CHEM 211 Organic Chemistry I
☐CHEM 310 Physical Chemistry
☐CHEM 330 Analytical Chemistry
☐CHEM 360 Inorganic Chemistry
☐BIOC 301 Biochemistry I
Introductory Laboratory Modules:
☐CHEM 231 or CHEM 351 Introductory Module in Inorganic Chemistry
☐CHEM 232 or CHEM 352 Introductory Module in Organic Chemistry
☐CHEM 353 Introductory Module in Analytical Methods
Mathematics*:
☐MATH 101 Single Variable Calculus I
☐MATH 102 Single Variable Calculus II
☐MATH 211 Ordinary Differential Equations and Linear Algebra or MATH 221 Honors Calculus III
☐MATH 212 Multivariable Calculus or MATH 222 Honors Calculus IV
* The Department of Mathematics may, after consultation with a student concerning his/ her previous math preparation,
recommend that a student be placed into a higher level math course than for which the student has official credit. The Department of
Chemistry will accept this waiver of the math classes upon a written confirmation of the waiver from the Department of Mathematics
and upon the student’s successful completion of the higher level math course.
Physics:
☐PHYS 101 or 111 Mechanics (with lab) or PHYS 125 General Physics (with lab)
☐PHYS 102 or 112 Electricity and Magnetism (with lab) or PHYS 126 General Physics II (with lab)
Advanced Lab Modules:
Two 300-level chemistry laboratory modules beyond CHEM 353. Laboratory courses from other departments can count if they have
substantial chemistry content (these must be approved by the track advisor). Students interested in health professions need two
credit hours of organic laboratory (either CHEM 215, or both CHEM 232 and CHEM 374).
☐300-level Chem Laboratory Module Course Number and Name: ________________________
☐300-level Chem Laboratory Module Course Number and Name: ________________________
☐Signature of Advisor if the lab courses are from another department: ____________________________ Date: _____________
Research:
Each student must complete three semesters of research, each with 3 or more credit hours (any combination of CHEM 491 Research
for Undergraduates, CHEM 492 Undergraduate Honors Research, or CHEM 493 Undergraduate Honors Research). Corresponding
research courses from other departments in Science and Engineering may be used towards this requirement. A semester of research
can be replaced by 1) CHEM 215; 2) an additional advanced laboratory module; 3) or CHEM 700 (Teaching Practicum, which can be
taken by undergrads who gain the instructor's permission). No more than two semesters of research can be replaced through these
substitutions.
☐Course name and number ______________________________
☐Course name and number ______________________________
☐Course name and number ______________________________
27
In-depth Chemistry Courses
In addition to the above required courses for the Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, each student must complete the requirements
for one of the following specializations or tracks. Other departments offer advanced courses with substantial chemistry content, and
these may count toward this requirement with approval of a track advisor. A student may, by working with his or her chemistry
major advisor and with the approval of the chemistry department, propose a track in another specialization. Such proposed tracks
must have course and laboratory experiences comparable to those of the tracks listed below. A double specialization can be earned
by completing the requirements for two specialties. For double specialization, only two advanced lecture courses may count towards
both specializations. The remaining two advanced courses in each specialization must be unique (i.e., double specialization requires
six advanced lecture courses, and triple specialization require eight). A nanochemistry specialization can be added to any of the
standard tracks by adding two nanoscience courses. Most in-depth courses are 400-level or higher, but CHEM 212 Organic Chemistry
II and CHEM 320 Organic Chemistry II build upon the foundation established in CHEM 211 and are classified as in-depth courses.
Specialization in Biological and Medicinal Chemistry
☐ CHEM 212 Organic Chemistry II or CHEM 320 Organic Chemistry II
☐ BIOC 302 Biochemistry II
Two additional three-credit advanced chemistry courses. Students interested in biological and medicinal chemistry are encouraged
to consider:
☐CHEM 401 Advanced Organic
☐CHEM 442 Medicinal Chemistry I
☐CHEM 547 Supramolecular
Chemistry
Chemistry
☐CHEM 443 Medicinal Chemistry II
☐CHEM 411 Spectral Methods in
☐BIOC 352 Physical Chemistry for the
☐CHEM 543 Secondary Metabolism
Organic Chemistry
Biosciences
☐CHEM 537 Biophysical Chemistry
☐CHEM 440 Enzyme Mechanisms
Specialization in Inorganic Chemistry and Inorganic Materials
☐ CHEM 475 Physical Methods in Inorganic Chemistry
☐ CHEM 495 Transition Metal Chemistry
☐ Two additional three-credit advanced chemistry courses. Course Number and Name ___________________
☐ Two additional three-credit advanced chemistry courses. Course Number and Name ___________________
Specialization in Organic Chemistry
☐ CHEM 212 Organic Chemistry II or CHEM 320 Organic Chemistry II
☐ CHEM 401 Advanced Organic Chemistry
Two additional three-credit advanced chemistry courses. Students interested in organic chemistry are encouraged to consider:
☐CHEM 411 Spectral Methods in
☐CHEM 443 Medicinal Chemistry II
☐CHEM 543 Secondary Metabolism
Organic Chemistry
☐CHEM 445 Physical Organic
☐CHEM 547 Supramolecular
☐CHEM 430 Quantum Chemistry
Chemistry
Chemistry
☐CHEM 440 Enzyme Mechanisms
☐CHEM 495 Transition Metal
Chemistry
☐CHEM 442 Medicinal Chemistry I
Specialization in Physical and Theoretical Chemistry
☐CHEM 430 Quantum Chemistry
☐CHEM 420 Classical and Statistical Thermodynamics
☐One additional three-credit advanced course in physical chemistry (CHEM 415 Chemical Kinetics and Dynamics, CHEM 450
Chemical Physical of Condensed and Biological Matter, CHEM 531 Advanced Quantum Chemistry, or CHEM 537 Biophysical
Chemistry)
☐One additional three-credit advanced course in chemistry outside of physical chemistry
Specialization in an Alternative Area:
☐Course Number and Name _____________________
☐Course Number and Name _____________________
☐Course Number and Name _____________________
28
Appendix D: Degree Requirements for the BA in Chemistry (for Matriculants Prior to Fall 2014)
The BA in chemistry requires at least 120 credit hours, including 45 credit hours of chemistry requirements (below) and at least 78
additional credit hours that satisfy the distribution requirements. The following courses are required for all students pursuing the
Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry:
General Chemistry:
☐CHEM 151 Honors Chemistry I or CHEM 121 General Chemistry I
☐CHEM 152 Honors Chemistry II or CHEM 122 General Chemistry II
☐CHEM 153 Honors Chemistry Laboratory I or CHEM 123 General Chemistry III
☐CHEM 154 Honors Chemistry Laboratory II or CHEM 124 General Chemistry IV
Chemistry Foundation Courses:
☐CHEM 211 Organic Chemistry I
☐CHEM 310 Physical Chemistry or BIOC 352 Physical Chemistry for the Biosciences
☐CHEM 330 Analytical Chemistry
☐ CHEM 360 Inorganic Chemistry
☐BIOC 301 Biochemistry I
Introductory Laboratory Modules:
☐CHEM 231 or CHEM 351 Introductory Module in Inorganic Chemistry
☐CHEM 232 or CHEM 352 Introductory Module in Organic Chemistry
☐ One additional chemistry laboratory course (CHEM 215 or any chemistry lab module)
Mathematics:
☐MATH 101 Single Variable Calculus I
☐MATH 102 Single Variable Calculus II
Physics:
☐PHYS 101 or 111 Mechanics or PHYS 125 General Physics
☐PHYS 102 or 112 Electricity and Magnetism or PHYS 126 General Physics II
Two Additional Upper-level 3-credit Chemistry Lecture Courses* (these can include CHEM 212 or CHEM 320):
☐ Course number and name____________
☐ Course number and name____________
*Other departments offer advanced courses with substantial chemistry content, and these may count toward this requirement with
approval of the BA advisor.
29
Appendix E: Course Offerings 2015-2016
CHEM 110-FRESHMAN CHEMISTRY SEMINAR
Credits: 1
Grade Mode: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
This half-semester course introduces freshmen to chemical research at Rice and in Houston. The course is offered both
semesters, and although some of the same material is covered in both semesters, the fall course emphasizes material for
students interested in the PhD track towards academic and industrial chemistry careers, while the spring semester places
greater emphasis on research in the Texas Medical Center (TMC) for students who plan to pursue the health professions.
Additional tours and activities TBA. All first-year non-transfer students are eligible to enroll in CHEM 110 regardless of AP
credit.
CHEM 121-GENERAL CHEMISTRY I
Credits: 3
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Introduction of chemical phenomena emphasizing problems and methods in Chemistry. Either CHEM 121 or CHEM 151
may be taken as a prerequisite for higher study in chemistry, but only one of these may be taken for credit. Students must
also register for CHEM 123 General Chemistry Laboratory I. The course and the co-requisite lab are graded jointly.
CHEM 122-GENERAL CHEMISTRY II
Credits: 3
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
A continuation of CHEM 121. Either CHEM 122 or CHEM 152 may be taken as prerequisites for higher study in chemistry,
but only one may be taken for credit. Students must also register for CHEM 124 General Chemistry Laboratory II. The
course and the co-requisite lab are graded jointly.
Pre-requisite(s): CHEM 121 OR CHEM 151
CHEM 123-GENERAL CHEMISTRY LABORATORY I
Credits: 1
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Required laboratory component of CHEM 121. Students must also register for CHEM 121. Credit may only be received for
either CHEM 123 or CHEM 153 but not both. The course and the co-requisite lab are graded jointly.
CHEM 124-GENERAL CHEMISTRY LABORATORY II
Credits: 1
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Required laboratory component of CHEM 122. Students must also register for CHEM 122. Credit may not be received for
both CHEM 124 and CHEM 154. The course and the co-requisite lab are graded jointly.
Pre-requisite(s): CHEM 123
CHEM 151-HONORS CHEMISTRY I
Credits: 3
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
An accelerated introduction to chemical phenomena emphasizing principles and theories in chemistry. Recommended
strongly for students who plan to major in chemistry or have a strong high school background. Students with AP credit in
Chemistry who intend to pursue advanced study in Chemistry are strongly encouraged to take CHEM 151 and CHEM
152. Students must also register for CHEM 153, which is laboratory that meets once per week. Either CHEM 121 or
CHEM 151 may be taken as a prerequisite for higher study in chemistry, but only one of these may be taken for credit.
The course and the co-requisite lab are graded jointly. Recommended prerequisite(s): high school chemistry and physics.
Co-requisite: CHEM 153
CHEM 152-HONORS CHEMISTRY II
Credits: 3
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
A continuation of CHEM 151. Students with AP credit in Chemistry who intend to pursue advanced study in Chemistry are
strongly encouraged to take CHEM 151 and CHEM 152. Students must also register for CHEM 154 which is a laboratory
that meets once per week. Either CHEM 122 or CHEM 152 may be taken as a prerequisite for higher study in chemistry,
but only one of these may be taken for credit. The course and the co-requisite are graded jointly.
Pre-requisite(s): CHEM 151 OR CHEM 121
30
Co-requisite: CHEM 154
CHEM 153-HONORS CHEMISTRY LABORATORY I
Credits: 1
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Required laboratory component of CHEM 151. Students must also register for CHEM 151. The course and the corequisite lab are graded jointly.
Co-requisite: CHEM 151
CHEM 154-HONORS CHEMISTRY LABORATORY II
Credits: 1
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Required laboratory component of CHEM 152. Students must also register for CHEM 152. The course and the corequisite lab are graded jointly.
Pre-requisite(s): CHEM 153 OR CHEM 123
Co-requisite: CHEM 152
CHEM 176-THE CHEMISTRY OF ART
Credits: 3
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
The chemistry of the materials and methods used to create, conserve and authenticate art objects will be presented.
Topics will include sculpture, painting, photography, textiles, jewelry, furniture, etc. Taught in conjunction with the
Conservation Department and Staff of the MFAH. Some classes will be held at the MFAH or HMNS.
CHEM 178-THE CHEMISTRY OF COOKING
Credits: 3
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
This course examines the chemistry involved in the composition, transformation, and consumption of food. Topics include
chemical properties and reactions of food, cooking tools, and techniques, sensory perception, and nutrition. Lectures and
hands-on kitchen experiments are taught in conjunction with Rice Dining Service. Knowledge of high school chemistry is
expected.
CHEM 211-ORGANIC CHEMISTRY I
Credits: 3
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Organic chemistry of aliphatic and aromatic compounds with emphasis on structure, functional groups, bonding,
stereochemistry, and reaction mechanisms. CHEM 211 may be taken as a prerequisite for higher study in chemistry.
CHEM 211 and CHEM 213 are co-requisites and must be taken together in the same semester.
Pre-requisite(s): CHEM 122 OR CHEM 152
Co-requisite: CHEM 213
CHEM 212-ORGANIC CHEMISTRY II
Credits: 3
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Continuation of CHEM 211 with an emphasis on aromatic compounds, reactivity and biologically relevant molecules.
Either CHEM 212 or CHEM 320 may be taken as a prerequisite for higher study in chemistry, but only one of these may
be taken for credit.
Pre-requisite(s): CHEM 211
CHEM 215-ORGANIC CHEMISTRY LAB
Credits: 2
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Synthesis, purification, and characterization of organic compounds. Experiments related to topics covered in CHEM 211,
212. Includes identification of unknown organic compounds. One lab per week.
Pre-requisite(s): CHEM 211
CHEM 217-ORGANIC LABORATORY FOR CHEMICAL ENGINEERS
Credits: 1
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
31
Organic laboratory designed for chemical engineering majors. Emphasis placed on the synthesis and the characterization
of organic compounds. This laboratory does not satisfy requirements for science majors or premedical students. CRN
11659: Section 001 will start on Wed, Aug 26th and will meet every other Wednesday for 7 total lab periods. CRN 11484:
Section 002 will start on Wed, Sept 2nd and will meet every other Wednesday for 7 total lab periods.
Pre-requisite(s): CHEM 211
CHEM 220-UNDERGRADUATE CHEMISTRY SEMINAR
Credits: 1
Grade Mode: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
PhD students in the Rice Chemistry Department give annual seminars on their research. The CHEM 220 course is a
mechanism for undergraduate students to participate as an audience member in these seminars. The course provides
unique access to gain insight into the workings of a PhD program. Students will see a lot of the chemistry research done
on campus, and this broad background can be invaluable for those investigating possible research directions for their
undergraduate research.
CHEM 310-PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY
Credits: 3
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
A survey of the principal theories of physical chemistry including Thermodynamics, Statistical Thermodynamics, Quantum
Mechanics, Spectroscopy, and Chemical Kinetics.
Pre-requisite(s): (CHEM 122 OR CHEM 152) AND (MATH 211 OR MATH 221)
CHEM 311-PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY I
Credits: 3
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
An introduction to the principles of thermodynamics, statistical thermodynamics, kinetic theory of gases, chemical kinetics
and the statistical mechanics.
Pre-requisite(s): (CHEM 122 OR CHEM 152) AND MATH 212
CHEM 312-PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY II
Credits: 3
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
An introduction to fundamental principles in quantum chemistry, chemical bonding and molecular spectroscopy.
Pre-requisite(s): (CHEM 122 OR CHEM 152) AND MATH 212
CHEM 320-ORGANIC CHEMISTRY II
Credits: 3
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
A continuation of CHEM 211 that is in greater depth than CHEM 212. Primarily for chemistry majors and science or
engineering students with a strong interest in chemistry research. Either CHEM 212 or CHEM 320 completes the twosemester organic chemistry sequence and may be taken as a prerequisite for higher study in chemistry, but only one may
be taken for credit. The pre-req CHEM 232 or CHEM 365 may be taken concurrently with CHEM 320. For registration
instructions and additional course information, please see the course web page in Owlspace.
Instructor permission required
Pre-requisite(s): CHEM 211 AND (CHEM 232 OR CHEM 365)
CHEM 330-ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
Credits: 3
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
A treatment of modern analytical chemistry with an emphasis on instrumentation. Applications of analytical chemistry as
applied to areas of medicine, forensics, and material.
Pre-requisite(s): CHEM 211
CHEM 360-INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Credits: 3
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Survey of the periodic table; atomic and molecular structure; bonding in covalent, ionic, and electron deficient systems;
thermochemical principles and experimental techniques for analysis, structure determination, and synthesis.
32
CHEM 365-ORGANIC CHEMISTRY LAB
Credits: 2
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Experiments illustrating techniques in synthetic organic chemistry and instrumental methods of analysis. Normally taken in
conjunction with CHEM 212 or CHEM 320. NOTE: only one of CHEM 232 and CHEM 365 may be taken for credit.
Pre-requisite(s): CHEM 211
CHEM 366-INORGANIC CHEMISTRY LAB
Credits: 2
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Various porphyrin and metalloporphyrin compounds are synthesized, purified and characterized by modern research
techniques such as infrared spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and magnetic
measurements. Data analysis to determine molecular structure is by student group tutorials. NOTE: only one of CHEM
231 and CHEM 366 may be taken for credit.
CHEM 367-MATERIALS CHEMISTRY LAB
Credits: 2
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Provides a hands-on experience for undergraduate student interested in the synthesis and structural characterization of
nanostructured materials. Synthetic methods will include wet chemistry techniques and lithographic preparation of
nanostructures. The course will provide understanding of and exposure to modern analysis and characterization
techniques, including spectroscopy, X-ray methods, and microscopy. Expected to be offered Fall 2015.
CHEM 368-CHEMICAL MEASUREMENT LAB
Credits: 2
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Introduction to Experimental Physical Chemistry. NOTE: only one of CHEM 381 and CHEM 368 may be taken for credit.
CHEM 376-ADVANCED INORGANIC SYNTHESIS
Credits: 2
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Advanced techniques in inorganic and organometallic synthesis will be covered including air sensitive manipulations using
Schlenk line, vacuum lines and dry box. Graduate students may register with an approved Special Registration form.
CHEM 391-RESEARCH FOR UNDERGRADUATES
Credits: 1 TO 5
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Independent chemical research at Rice or in other Texas Medical Center groups. Students spend at least 3 hours per
week in the laboratory for each semester hour of credit, in addition to other requirements. If taken for 3 or more hours,
counts toward the CHEM 391 requirement for the BS degree in chemistry. Instructor permission required. Students are
expected to complete CHEM 391 before the end of their junior year; permission is not normally granted for students in
their final year of undergraduate study. Prior to enrollment, students must secure a position in a laboratory. A special
registration form, signed by the faculty research advisor, should be submitted to the course instructor by August 1 for the
Fall term, December 1 for the Spring term, or April 1 for the Summer term.
Instructor permission required
CHEM 401-ADVANCED ORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Credits: 3
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
The principles of structure and bonding are used to explain and predict reactivity in organic chemistry. Extensive practice
with reaction mechanism and curved-arrow formalism. Topics include conformational analysis, acidity/basicity, functional
group preparation, stereoselective synthesis, and organo-element chemistry. Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency:
CHEM 501.
Pre-requisite(s): CHEM 212 OR CHEM 320
CHEM 430-QUANTUM CHEMISTRY
Credits: 3
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
The purpose of this course is to provide the student with a working knowledge of the basic concepts and mathematical
formalism of quantum mechanics. Topics include the mathematics of quantum mechanics, one-dimensional problems,
33
central field problems, the harmonic oscillator, angular momentum, perturbation theory, spin, and introduction to methods
of modern electronic structure theory, with applications in atomic and molecular structures, spectroscopy, and chemical
bonding. Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: CHEM 530.
Pre-requisite(s): (CHEM 310 OR CHEM 312) AND MATH 212 AND (PHYS 102 OR PHYS 112)
CHEM 475-PHYSICAL METHODS IN INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Credits: 3
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
A survey course of research techniques used in modern inorganic chemistry. Topics covered will include X-ray diffraction,
mass spectrometry, magnetism, and various spectroscopies (IR, Raman, UV-Vis, NMR, EPR, XPS, and Mossbauer).
Pre-requisite(s): CHEM 360
CHEM 491-RESEARCH FOR UNDERGRADUATES
Repeatable for Credit
Credits: 1 TO 5
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Independent chemical research at Rice or in other Teams Medical Center groups. Ordinarily taken by students who have
taken CHEM 391. Students spend at least 3 hours per week in the laboratory for each semester hour of credit, in addition
to other requirements. Instructor permission required. Prior to enrollment, students must secure a position in a laboratory.
A special registration form, signed by the faculty research advisor is required. For students who have not previously
enrolled in CHEM 391 or CHEM 491 with the anticipated faculty research advisor, the special registration form should be
submitted to the course instructor by August 1 for the Fall term, December 1 for the Spring term, or April 1 for the Summer
term.
Instructor permission required
Pre-requisite(s): CHEM 391
CHEM 492-UNDERGRADUATE HONORS RESEARCH
Credits: 5
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
The 1st half of the Honors Research Program. CHEM 492 and CHEM 493 function as a pair and must be taken in the
same academic year. Registration for CHEM 492 requires a commitment to register for CHEM 493. Requirements include
at least 15 hours of laboratory research per week and written and/or oral progress reports. The sequence will culminate in
the completion of a thesis (research report) in the spring ter. Instructor permission required; for approved students only.
Applications must be submitted to the course instructor February 1 - August 1. Students are encouraged to apply early.
Students who complete the Chemistry Honors Research Program are given primary consideration for "Distinction in
Research and Creative Work," a university award for select undergraduates, chosen by the department and granted at
commencement, which appears on the transcript and diploma. Ordinarily offered Fall term.
Instructor permission required
Pre-requisite(s): CHEM 391
CHEM 493-UNDERGRADUATE HONORS RESEARCH
Credits: 5
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
The 2nd half of the Honors Research Program. CHEM 492 and CHEM 493 function as a pair and must be taken in the
same academic year. Requirements include at least 15 hours or laboratory research per week and a thesis (research
report). Students who complete the Chemistry Honors Research Program are given primary consideration for "Distinction
in Research and Creative Work," a university award for select undergraduates, chosen by the department and granted at
commencement, which appears on the transcript and diploma. Ordinarily offered in Spring.
Instructor permission required
Pre-requisite(s): CHEM 492
CHEM 495-TRANSITION METAL CHEMISTRY
Credits: 3
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Structure, bonding and reactivity of coordination and organometallic compounds; ligand field theory; electronic
spectroscopy; magnetism; reaction mechanisms; catalysis.
Pre-requisite(s): CHEM 211 AND CHEM 360
CHEM 525-FUNDAMENTAL PHTOLUMINESCENCE SPECTROSCOPY
Credits: 1.5
34
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
This course aims to cover basic topics in photoluminescence spectroscopy such as instrumentation, different
photoluminescent species, solvent relaxation, photoluminescence quenching, energy transfer and anisotropy. Novel
applications of photoluminescence spectroscopy such as sensing, multiphoton excitation and the fluorescence of proteins
will also be discussed.
CHEM 533-NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY I
Credits: 3
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
An introduction to the basic principles of nanoscience and nanotechnology. Size dependent physical properties of
nanoscopic solids will be described using solid state physics and molecular orbital theory as a foundation. Wet chemical
techniques that produce nanoscale materials (e.g. carbon nanotubes, semiconductor and metallic nanocrystals,
dendrimers...) will be introduced in the second half of the semester. Cross-list: CEVE 533.
CHEM 547-SUPRAMOLECULAR CHEMISTRY
Credits: 3
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
An examination of noncovalent interactions and their impact in biology, chemistry, and engineering. Topics will include
self-assembly, molecular recognition, protein folding and structure, nucleic acid structure, polymer organization,
crystallization and applications of the above for the design and synthesis of nanostructured materials.
Pre-requisite(s): CHEM 212 OR CHEM 320
CHEM 557-NANOCARBONS
Credits: 1.5
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
This course will survey the chemistry, physics, and selected applications of carbon nanostructures. Fullerenes, carbon
nanotubes, and graphene will be the main focus. Students are expected to have a solid background in physical chemistry.
CHEM 559-SPECTROSCOPY AT THE SINGLE MOLECULE/PARTICLE LIMIT
Credits: 3
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
This course will cover principles of electronic spectroscopy of molecules and nanoparticles with emphasis on single
molecule/particle spectroscopy methods and analysis techniques.
Pre-requisite(s): CHEM 310
CHEM 700-TEACHING PRACTICUM
Repeatable for Credit
Credits: 2
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Open to graduate students in chemistry and only in exceptional circumstances to undergraduates.
Department: Chemistry
35