Information for First Year Students

Depending on their background, students in Chemistry usually start with one of several courses: General Chemistry (CHEM141), Honors General Chemistry (CHEM143 or CHEM144), or Principles of Organic Chemistry (CHEM251). If you have taken AP, IB Higher Level, or A-Level Chemistry, see the important note below about track selection. The following flow chart serves as a general guide for selecting your entry point into Chemistry. 

General Chemistry Tracks

Trying to decide between CHEM141/142 and CHEM143/144? A more detailed overview of the differences can be found in the Comparison of Two Introductory Chemistry Sequences. Please contact the current instructors for CHEM141 and CHEM143 for more guidance.

Advanced Placement

If an AP, IB Higher Level, or A-Level Chemistry course appears on your high school transcript, then you will not receive credit for CHEM141/142 if you take those courses. Your only option to receive credit for an introductory chemistry course taken at Wesleyan University is CHEM143/144.

If you have taken AP/IB-HL/A-Level Chemistry exams, see the Advanced Placement Guidelines and/or consult with one of the Chemistry faculty to help you decide among the options for courses/credit.