Combined Major

Chemistry-Geology Major

Department/Program

Total credit requirements for a Chemistry-Geology major: 51-55 (16-20 in Chemistry, 25 in Geology, and 10 in supporting Science courses)

  • Required Chemistry Courses (16-20 Credits)
    • Chemistry 125, 126, 135, and 136; or 140
    • Chemistry 310
    • Choose two of the following options, including at least one lab (indicated with an asterisk *):
      • Chemistry 320*
      • Chemistry 346 (with or without 1-credit lab, Chemistry 352*)
      • Chemistry 305 or 388*
  • Required Geology Courses (25 Credits)
    • One introductory course plus lab, chosen from:
      • Geology 110 and 111
      • Geology 120 and 121
      • Geology 125 and 126
    • Geology 227, 270, 350, 358, 405, 460, and 470
  • Required Supporting Science Courses (10 Credits)
    • Mathematics 124 or 125, and 126
    • Physics 145 or 155
  • Senior Requirements
    • Geology 470
    • Senior assessment:
      • Comprehensive written exams in both Geology and Chemistry
      • One-hour oral exam by Chemistry and Geology faculty
  • Honors
    • Students do not apply for admission to candidacy for Honors.
    • Accumulated at least 87 credits
    • Completed two semesters of residency at Whitman
    • Major GPA of at least 3.500
    • Complete a written thesis or research project prepared exclusively for the satisfaction of this program.
    • Earn a grade of at least A- on the honors thesis or project course (Chemistry or Geology 498).
    • Pass the senior assessment with distinction.
    • Chair of the department will notify the Registrar of students attaining honors no later than the beginning of Week 12.
    • An acceptable digital copy of the Honors Thesis must be submitted to Penrose Library no later than Reading Day.
  • Notes
    • No courses taken P-D-F may be applied to the major.
    • Majors are strongly encouraged to complete a senior research project, enrolling in:
      • One credit of Chemistry 401
      • Two credits of Chemistry 490 or 498, or three credits of Geology 490 or 498
Total Credits
51-55