Introduction
The Chemistry major provides many benefits to students. There is close student-faculty contact and relatively small classes. The students have direct access to modern laboratory equipment and instrumentation, and there are opportunities for research work under the direction of a faculty advisor.
Physics is the fundamental science. It is the study of matter and energy and of the interaction between the two. Astronomy, Biology, Chemistry, Geology and Engineering apply the principles of Physics to specific problems. Almost all areas of modern technology involve applications of Physics. The study of Physics provides an excellent liberal arts foundation and can open a variety of doors for jobs, including Secondary Education.
This major must be accompanied by the professional preparation program in secondary education offered through Woodring College of Education. Courses required for a state teaching endorsement must be completed with a grade of C (2.0) or better.
Student Resources
Department website: Chemistry
Contact information: Chemistry Building 270, 360-650-3070, chemistry@wwu.edu; Teacher Education Admission, 360-650-4887, wce.teachered.admiss@wwu.edu.
Department advising: Admitted and/or current students visit the Advising section of the Chemistry website.
Degree Works: Current students should also log on to Degree Works to check student-specific program progress.
Career Services Center: Connect major to a career
How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):
The Chemistry Department has a two-step process for admission to a BAE major. First, students should visit the department office and meet with the Departmental Advisor to complete the Official Declaration of Major form. This will initiate an evaluation of the student’s transcript to outline remaining coursework and assignment of a faculty advisor. Second, the student should contact their assigned advisor for a meeting. It is the student’s responsibility to meet with their assigned faculty advisor to develop a plan of study for the remainder of their time in the program. See the department’s website for more details.
This major must be accompanied by the professional preparation program in secondary education. See the Secondary Education section of this catalog for program admission, completion, and teacher certification requirements.
As certification to teach high school now requires more than four years of study, advisement prior to or at the beginning of the third year is absolutely necessary to avoid lengthening the program.
Grade Requirements
A cumulative GPA of at least 2.50, plus a minimum grade of C (2.0) or better in the individual courses, must be maintained in the courses required by the major. Students must also earn a grade of C (2.0) or better in the secondary education professional program.
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