Chemistry at Columbia for First Years

Colleges and Universities A-Z Columbia University
1

At Columbia, you have the option to take General Chemistry, Intensive General Chemistry, and Intensive Organic Chemistry for first years. If I only scored a 3 on the AP Chemistry Exam, am I still allowed to take Intensive Organic Chemistry as a freshman? Would I have to take General Chemistry (whether it is intensive or not) during sophomore year? I would need Gen Chem since it is a requirement for medical schools. Since I don’t have a 4 or 5 on the AP Chemistry Exam, I would not be awarded any credits that would replace taking general chemistry.

Thanks.

2

No you have to have a 5 to take Intensive Organic. If you plan on med school and will want to keep up your GPA you probably would want to take the General Chem 1400 level. My kid had a 5 on AP Chem but Gen Chem at Columbia was not easy even with a solid HS background.

3

Do yourself a favor and take intensive gen chem rather than the 1400 sequence. It skips the BS in AP Chem and reduces the effect that Gen Chem will have on your GPA.