Understanding the Chemistry, Math and Physics Options
Life Science majors are required to have a solid background in the physical science areas of calculus, general and organic chemistry, and calculus-based physics. However, the faculty from each of these departments recognizes that biology-based majors do not require as much depth and coverage of certain physical science concepts. Therefore, life science majors are allowed to choose from two or three different sequences of classes in each of these important areas. Please use these descriptions as a guideline for your academic planning.
Check with any special academic or research programs for their requirements before choosing a path;
Choose based on your level of interest in a topic. Generally speaking, if these are not your favorite subjects, you will get enough preparation with the life science sequences.
Chemistry 14A, 14B, 14BL, 14C, 14CL, and 14D
Known as the "Chem 14 series" designed specifically for life science majors
Accelerated pace through general chemistry
Will satisfy all pre-health requirements
About 85% of life science majors complete this series
Chemistry 20A, 20B, 20L, 30AL, 30A, 30B, 30BL, (and 30C for pre-health prep)
Known as the "Chem 20/30 series", and is required for all physical science majors (including chemistry and biochemistry, engineering, math, and physics)
More depth in areas like general chemistry and material science
One extra general chemistry lab class
About 15% of life science majors complete this series
Math 3A, 3B, and 3C
"Short" calculus for life science majors, and will satisfy all pre-health requirements
Math 3C completes basic calculus and begins concepts in probability
Is recommended concurrently with the Chem 14 series
About 50% of life science majors complete this series
Math 31A, 31B, and 32A
Includes differential calculus of several variables and intro to vector analysis
Is recommended concurrently with the Chem 20/30 series
About 50% of life science majors complete this series
Physics 6A, 6B, and 6C
Classical physics for life science majors, and will satisfy all pre-health requirements
Developed for students with no prior exposure to physics
Preparation is found in either the Math 3 or 31/32 series
About 75% of life science majors will take this series
Physics 6AH, 6BH, and 6CH
Combines physics and biology concepts, considered a fast-paced series
Developed for students with previous experience in physics or strong desire for more advanced concepts in this area, and will satisfy all pre-health requirements
Preparation is found in either the Math 3 or 31/32 series
About 20% of life science majors will take this series
Physics 1A, 1B, 1C, 4AL, and 4BL
Classical physics for physical science majors, and will satisfy all pre-health requirements
Preparation is found in the Math 31/32 series
About 5% of life science majors take this series