About this program

The Chemistry Distinguished Scholars Program offers an opportunity to a diverse group of students with a broad array of interests in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). Up to 24 incoming first-year students are selected to participate each year based on academic achievement.

The program places students into groups that are guaranteed enrollment in introductory courses, including Honors General Chemistry. These courses offer a smaller, more inclusive learning environment and provide a gateway to substantive research experiences in the Chemistry Department.

 

Criteria

  • First-Year Student
  • 3.0+ GPA
  • Academic interest in:
    • Chemistry
    • Biochemistry
    • Biology
    • Engineering & Design
    • Environmental Science
    • Geology
    • Materials Science
    • Polymer Materials Engineering, or
    • Pre-Medicine

Apply by March 11

This program is exclusively for admitted Western students; you will need to log in to your Admitted Student Portal to register.

A smiling student unpacks boxes in the chemistry storeroom
Assorted laboratory equipment and glassware in a chemistry lab

Benefits

  • Collaboration with peer study cohorts
  • Enhanced lab experiences in a smaller, more inclusive learning environment.
  • Guaranteed enrollment in the following courses:
    • First Year (Fall 2024): CHEM 175 (Honors)
    • First Year (Winter 2025): CHEM 176 (Honors)
    • First Year (Spring 2025): CHEM 225 (Honors)
      • This course fulfills the analytical chemistry course requirement for all Chemistry majors
  • Priority registration in the following courses:
    • First Year (Spring 2025): BIOL 204
    • Second Year (Fall 2025): PHYS 161
  • Fall 2024 and Winter 2025: Depending upon your Math Placement and/or AP Calculus scores, you will also have a seat in the appropriate Math class.  In order to enroll in any General Chemistry class, including Honors, students should demonstrate proficiency in pre-calculus (MATH 114) either through taking the Math Placement Exam or having equivalent college coursework already completed. Extenuating circumstances can be reviewed by a faculty program contact.   
  • One-on-one advising with a Chemistry faculty member to help chart your coursework to advise you on research and internship opportunities (many Chemistry Distinguished Scholars start research projects with faculty mentors early on in their college careers, either in the Chemistry Department or other STEM disciplines), and to help plan your future after graduation.