Major Advising Page – Chemistry
The chemistry department encourages our majors to study abroad! Though it is not as common to earn Chemistry course equivalents while abroad, many chemistry majors take the opportunity to participate in research, expand their studies in other subjects, or to fulfill breadth and general education requirements. A study abroad experience is something that can benefit you regardless of where you plan to go next after graduation!
Prospective Chemistry students
Students are eligible to declare the chemistry major after completing general chemistry, though any student is welcome to meet with the chemistry advisor to learn more. If you are considering studying abroad, it is important to meet with the advisor early so you can begin planning.
Chemistry majors have studied abroad during all terms, including winter and summer. It is most common for our majors to study abroad in their junior year, though you can study abroad before or after that. We encourage you to familiarize yourself with our chemistry major requirements and to meet with the chemistry advisor to discuss your interests. Together, you can create multiple potential course plans to show your options. Remember that communication and planning are key to studying abroad and graduating on your chosen timeline!
Chemistry course considerations abroad
L&S students need to complete at least 15 Upper-Level Major Credits in residence to meet graduation requirements. All approved study abroad programs meet UW-Madison course standards and give you in-residence credit.
Though possible, it is likely that the chemistry course you take abroad would not count towards the chemistry major requirements due to having limited direct equivalencies. The most likely courses you would take abroad to fulfill degree requirements are:
- Breadth courses (humanities, social sciences, languages).
- Additional laboratory credit fulfilled through research.
- Some chemistry courses, through some programs. If a course does not match one of the chemistry courses offered at UW-Madison, the department may still be able to grant chemistry study abroad course credit, which could be used to fulfill major requirements at the discretion of the major department.
Mapping your study abroad experience in the Chemistry major
- Freshman year
Freshman year is a good time to focus on your core foundation courses – specifically chemistry and math. - Sophomore year
Many chemistry majors take organic, analytical, or inorganic chemistry during their sophomore year. It is also most common to take physics or biology during this time (biology is most commonly taken by chemistry majors who are on a pre-health track, have an interest in biology, or need the subject for another major requirement). - Junior year
Junior year is the most common time for chemistry majors to study abroad. This is also a common time to begin your physical chemistry courses, possible upper-level advanced chemistry courses, and research. Since most of our majors who study abroad do not take any of our major courses while they are away, it is important to plan with the chemistry advisor to allow a gap in your chemistry studies. Your advisor can work with you to find a plan that works best. - Senior year
Chemistry majors could also study abroad during their senior year. It is most common in the fall due to job interviews, grad school visits, etc., during the spring. Since this is when most chemistry majors are completing their physical chemistry requirements, it would be best to work with the chemistry advisor to work out a plan and to ensure the 15 Upper-Level Major Credits in Residence are also met.
| Year | Fall | Summer |
|---|---|---|
| Freshman | CHEM 103 MATH 221 | CHEM 104 MATH 222 |
| Sophomore | CHEM 329 PHYSICS 207Research (optional) | CHEM 311 CHEM 343 Research (optional) |
| Junior | CHEM 345 CHEM 344 Research (optional) | Study Abroad |
| Senior | CHEM 561 CHEM 563 (or spring) CHEM Elective (non-lab) Research or Additional lab credits | CHEM 562 CHEM 564 (or summer) CHEM Elective (non-lab) Research or Additional lab credits |
Questions to ask
Your Academic Advisor:
- What classes must I complete for my degree (breadth/depth, major requirements, etc.)?
- Do I need to be on UW-Madison’s campus for any courses in my major?
- How many electives do I have outside of my major?
Your Study Abroad Advisor:
- What classes can I take abroad?
- How and when do I select courses for my program?
- When will I know course equivalents for my program?
- What is the class structure like abroad?
Hear from students in your major
Explore student blogs and reflections to see how your peers have connected international experiences to their studies. Discover real stories about the skills, challenges, and professional insights gained through our programs.
Identifying programs to explore
Studying abroad offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in another culture while simultaneously completing your degree. Though it is common for students not to take any chemistry major courses while abroad, there are programs that offer equivalents. Here are some possibilities where students have been able to earn chemistry major credits.
- Australia
- Denmark
- England
- Ireland
- Thailand
International Internships
International internships are another way to gain valuable professional experience abroad while earning course credit. While you can often participate in a part-time internship as part of your study abroad program, it is also possible to participate in an Internship-focused program or a UW Signature Internship.
Search all programs
Research all programs using the Program Search page. The above is not an exhaustive list of all programs. There may be other programs that are a better fit for your individual needs or interests.