In order to undertake the process of attaining departmental distinction, a student must
> be a declared chemistry major
> have a chemistry course GPA of 3.00 or greater
> have an overall GPA of 3.00 or greater
> have junior or senior standing
In order to be certified with Departmental Distinction in Chemistry, a student must
> finish the chemistry major and other graduation requirements
> maintain a chemistry course GPA of 3.00 or greater
> maintain an overall GPA of 3.00 or greater
The process of gaining Departmental Distinction in Chemistry is a formative, rather than summative process. Students are expected to progress through the required elements in a manner that involves considerable learning at each step. The student seeking distinction works with their distinction mentor on each element of the process. Improving the student’s ability to communicate science effectively is one of the primary goals of the distinction process.
Various aspects of the distinction process are described at the links below.
The required elements of the distinction process:
1. Participation in an experiential learning activity or project.
2. Production of a formal paper describing the project, usually in journal format.
3. Oral presentation of the paper to a small committee of faculty.
4. Public oral presentation of the work.
Timeline for the completion of the distinction process.