Independent Research Courses:

CHEM 196, 296, 396, 496 (1-6 credits) Independent Study. 196 (Freshmen), 296 (Sophomore), 396 (Junior), 496 (Senior). Experimental or theoretical study that may involve lab or library work or a combination. Work supervised by faculty sponsor who determines direction of project, nature of reports required, and grade and credit awarded. Complete Chemistry's online Independent Research Proposal enrollment form including a brief description for 196 & 296, or a full-page research proposal for 396 & 496, and email approval from the research advisor. Guideline is 3-4 hrs work per week per 1 credit. Does not satisfy the BS independent research project requirement CHEM 388.

CHEM 196ISH, 296ISH, 396ISH, 496ISH (1-6 credits). Honors Independent Study courses are enrolled through the Commonwealth Honors College.

CHEM 388 (3 credits) Independent Research Project. Required of BS chemistry majors (BA chemistry majors may choose to take course as an elective, but it is not required.) Choose research advisor to sponsor research and complete Chemistry's online Independent Research Proposal enrollment form including a one-page research proposal, and email approval from the research advisor. A GRADED research report is to be completed at the end of the course and be on file within the chemistry department.

CHEM 499 (6 credits). Honors Capstone Experience. Required of BS students taking chemistry departmental honors within the Commonwealth College. These course(s) satisfy the Capstone Experience requirement of the Commonwealth College. The Capstone Experience is usually taken over 2 semesters, but may be accomplished in one semester, if feasible. [Note: To fulfill the chemistry department research requirement students take CHEM 388 OR CHEM 499 – NOT BOTH]. Students choose a research advisor and one other faculty member to serve on the research committee. A research report is to be completed at the end of the course in accordance with Commonwealth Honors College guidelines.

Chemistry CHC students are strongly encouraged to do their Departmental Honors Thesis work in chemistry labs, if possible (Chem 499Y and 499T). However, in the case where a CHC student pursues work in a lab outside chemistry, they must have a chemistry faculty member serving on the thesis committee. The Honors Program Director, has to sign their approval of the Honors Research Contract and accompanying preliminary proposal before enrollment in Chem 499Y/T.