Dartmouth College's Chemistry Department offers multiple pathways for students interested in pursuing a chemistry major. You can choose from four distinct major programs: Plan A (for a comprehensive chemistry education, ideal for graduate studies), Plan B (for a broader scientific foundation with a focus on chemistry-related careers), Biophysical Chemistry (integrating physical chemistry with biological systems), and Biological Chemistry (focusing on the chemistry of biological processes). The department also allows for a Modified Major, which can be tailored to individual career goals in consultation with faculty advisors. All programs emphasize hands-on laboratory experience using modern equipment.
The chemistry major at Dartmouth prepares students for a wide range of career paths and further academic pursuits. Graduates are well-equipped for graduate studies in chemistry or related sciences, as well as for professional programs in medicine, law, or business. The curriculum also supports careers in fields such as environmental science, life sciences, and industrial science.
Formal election of a major occurs during the winter or spring term of the sophomore year. A detailed plan for the junior and senior years must be designed in consultation with an Undergraduate Advisory Committee member and submitted for approval. All major programs require a substantial, graded culminating or integrating activity, often fulfilled through undergraduate research (CHEM 80 or CHEM 87).
Tuition and living cost information is not available on the program page. Please refer to Dartmouth College's official admissions and financial aid pages for current figures.
To declare the Chemistry major, students must have a GPA of 2.0 or higher in all prerequisite chemistry courses. Formal election of the major occurs during the sophomore year after applying to and being admitted to Dartmouth College.
Prospective students first apply for general admission to Dartmouth College. Once enrolled, students declare their major during their sophomore year by consulting with an advisor to design and submit a major plan through Dartmouth's 'DartWorks' system.
A Chemistry major prepares students for diverse careers as chemists, biochemists, environmental scientists, and researchers. It also provides a strong foundation for graduate studies in science, or professional programs in medicine, law, or business.
Students can choose from four distinct major programs (Plan A, Plan B, Biophysical Chemistry, Biological Chemistry) or a Modified Major, all requiring a minimum of eight upper-level classes. All programs emphasize hands-on laboratory experience and include a culminating activity, often through undergraduate research.