ChemistryDistinguished Scholars

Chemistry student opening a box of glassware

About This Program

The Chemistry Distinguished Scholars Program (CDS) 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 Honors General Chemistry, offering a smaller, more inclusive learning environment and providing 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

Deadline Extended - Apply by March 20

Apply Now

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 a peer study group of students with similar interests (called a cohort).
  • Guaranteed enrollment in Honors General Chemistry, a series of three courses during your first year.
  • Fulfill requirements of four courses through the accelerated Honors General Chemistry sequence.
  • Enhanced lab experiences in a smaller, more inclusive learning environment.
  • 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.