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CONTACT INFORMATION

Location: Science Math Bldg.
Second Floor, SM204-242
[campus map]

Dean of MSE Division
Dr. Christopher McDonald
Phone: 949.582.4820

Chair of Chemistry Dept.
Dr. Scott Fier
Phone: 949.582.4687

Are you REALLY ready for Chem 1A?...

Question 1: How do I know if I am ready for CHEM 1A?

Answer: You are ready if you have a) taken CHEM 3 within the last two years and earned a C or better. OR b) completed a high school AP chemistry class with a score of 3 or better on the AP Exam. OR c) Pass Chemistry Challenge Exam.

Question_2: What should I do if I have never taken Chemistry or if I took chemistry but finished with a weak background?

Answer: If you have taken MATH 253, take CHEM 3. CHEM 3 is designed to start from the very beginning and help students learn the concepts and skills needed to be successful in CHEM 1A.

Question_3: I took chemistry within the last two years and earned a solid 'B'. I would like to tackle CHEM 1A directly without spending a semester taking CHEM 3. What do you recommend?

Answer: That's understandable and we don't want students taking a class they do not need. However, the last thing YOU want is to be in over your head and do poorly in CHEM 1A. To take Chem 1A you will have to take the Chemistry Challenge Exam. The best preparation for the Chemistry Challenge Exam is to review your algebra and chemistry skills. Also, consider borrowing a Fundamental Chemistry (Chem 3) textbook from the college Library to familiarize yourself with problems you will be tested on.

You can also review other test preparation guides available at bookstores, or click on the following Chemistry Tutorials for review:

General Chemistry Online: Tutorial, Drill, & Quiz Index

ChemTutor: Numbers & Math Operations

Chemistry Challenge Practice Exam 1

Chemistry Challenge Practice Exam 2

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