Structure and Requirements for Chemistry Education Designated Emphasis (DE)

1. The DE requires 12 units of coursework; students could satisfy by taking a selection of the following courses:

A. Required Courses:

CHEM 241: Learning Theories in Chemistry Education (4 units; offered every fall)

PSYC 211: Statistical Inference (4 units; no course prerequisite)

B. One of the following courses:

PSYC 212: Multiple Regression and Correlation Analysis (4 units; course prerequisite is PSYC 211; recommended for students interested in further developing social science research skills)

PSYC 207C: Processes of Cognitive Development (3 units; no course prerequisite; recommended for student interested in focusing more on classroom instruction)

2. The DE requires the student to complete a chemistry education research project in addition to their normal chemistry research. The scope of this project is expected to be such that it comprises one chapter in the final PhD dissertation. This project may be completed under the guidance of a chemistry department professor of teaching (who would act as a co-advisor overseeing the chemistry education research), or could be completed independently under the approval of the DE Program Committee and the student’s research advisor.

3. Students cannot begin the DE coursework until candidacy has been completed within the regular research program. The DE coursework should be completed within one year after the completion of candidacy, and the chemistry education research project can be completed any time prior to the final submission of the dissertation.

4. Students can apply to enter the DE program by submitting a statement of interest to the DE Program Committee. The statement should include the following: 1) why are you interested in completing the Chem Ed DE; 2) how does the Chem Ed DE would fit within your career goals; and 3) what type of project are you interested in pursuing (if you do not have a specific project/research question in mind, that will not prevent from being accepted into the program). The statement of interest can be submitted by students prior to their candidacy exam in order to plan in advance of the program start.