Which University for Majoring In Chemsitry? (California)

College Majors
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<p>Ok so I was thinking about majoring in chemistry, specifically organic (minor in neuro/psycho-pharmacology). I was researching about which universities have chemistry programs available. So I came up with some in a nearby area. I don't really want to go too far. The one's I've come up with are: UC Berkeley, SF State, or UC Santa Cruz. Berkeley amongst those three is definitely the best chemistry school, but it will require a good amount of effort just to get in. On the other hand, how is SF state and UC Santa Cruz look in terms of chemistry/pharmacology? Anything other than those universities around the Bay Area (NorCal) with a good chemistry/pharmacology program (I don't plan on going to SoCal or the Central Valley)? One problem I have found is that no university actually offers majoring in organic chemistry (searched on their websites and on collegeboard.com), but in fact biochemistry. Is there a reason why they don't list it, or is it just for the fact that they don't have it.</p>

<p>Overall, what are the best chemistry universities in California?</p>

<p>Another question I had was how is the university of Amsterdam? I know it has a pretty good reputation but I was wondering how hard it is to actually get in. I've done a lot of googling and haven't found anything that really explains requirements other than saying you need a diploma (doesn't even say anything specific). Is it possible to come straight out of highschool, or will I need to go to community college for a couple of years? Also, how does the school system there work? For example here, to major in chemistry, you need to take chemistry 1a,1b,2a,2b blah blah, biology 1a,1b blah blah, physics, math and what not; totaling up to a huge amount of classes/credits. How does Europe's university system work in those terms?</p>

<p>Thanks.</p>

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<p>Organic chemistry is not a major. If you want to specialize in it go to graduate school. If you can't get into UCB, then I don't think it matters where you go. UCSC may be the best, they may have more research opportunities. You can also look at UCD near Sacramento (my hometown). They are a good science school too offering research opportunities.</p>

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<p>Thanks a lot; I was actually planning on going to UCB from a local community college so that would make it easier</p>

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<p>Did you get a guaranteed transfer agreement?</p>

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<p>No, but I will be going to community college as I am currently a senior in high school.</p>

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<p>Oh ok, if you really plan on going to UCSC be sure to get a Guaranteed Transfer Agreement. You won't have to compete, I think you just fill out an application, send your final transcripts, and you're in.</p>

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<p>And what about for UCB?</p>

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<p>Ha yeah right, then everyone would be there. Not for UCB. Have you heard of assist.org? If you want to get into UCB as a chemistry major, make sure you go there and take EVERY class that is mentioned on there. Keep your gpa at least a 3.2. UCB and most other CSU and UC campuses base their decision on transfer gpa and how many courses you have taken from assist.</p>