Chemistry

Chemists study the properties of matter and make qualitative and quantitative analysis of many substances. They conduct a variety of experiments and tests in laboratories to develop new knowledge or maintain control over the quality of existing products and procedures. Chemists may work in research and development, or production and quality control in the chemical manufacturing industry, and in education or government institutions.

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Programs Offered

Transfer Preparation
Certificate of Achievement
- Chemical Technician Skills
See also Science: General Science

Certificate of Achievement Requirements

A Certificate of Achievement is granted upon successful completion of a program of study with a minimum overall grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 (C) and a designated minimum number of units, including:

Completion of the area of emphasis with a grade of C or higher in each course, or with a P if the course was taken on a Pass/No Pass basis, and the P is equal to a C or higher;
Completion of at least 50% of area of emphasis units at Santa Monica College. Department Chairs have the discretion to waive the 50% minimum units required at SMC to meet the major or area of emphasis. All major coursework must be completed with a “C” or better grade.

Catalog Rights

Transfer Preparation

Many colleges/universities offer baccalaureate degrees in this field. Students planning to transfer to a four-year college or university should complete the lower-division major requirements and the general education pattern for the specific transfer institution. SMC has articulation agreements with the many UC and CSU campuses, as well as several private and out-of-state institutions.

Exact major requirements for UC and CSU campuses can be found online at assist.org.

A listing of private, nonprofit California colleges and universities can be found online at aiccu.edu. For articulation agreements between SMC and some of these institutions see smc.edu/articulation.

The University of California system has a transfer pathway for any UC campus that offers Biochemistry and Chemistry. For more information, visit UC Transfer Pathways Guide.

Chemical Technician Skills, Certificate of Achievement

The Certificate of Achievement in Chemical Technician Skills prepares students for entry-level employment as chemical technicians in pharmaceutical, chemical manufacturing, regulatory, or academic laboratories. The program provides a foundation in chemical principles and emphasizes hands-on experience with chemical instrumentation and fundamental laboratory techniques. The pathway introduces students to techniques commonly used in chemical analysis, manufacturing, quality assurance, and research. Students will develop practical skills in data collection and interpretation, industry-standard notebook documentation, handling chemical materials, laboratory safety, and the operation of instruments. This certificate requires successful completion of two semesters of general chemistry and an introductory course in chemical instrumentation.

Program Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of the program, students will demonstrate proficiency in general chemistry concepts and laboratory procedures. Operate and interpret data from common analytical instruments, including HPLC, GC-MS, IR, and UV-vis. Apply safety and regulatory practices in a laboratory setting. Analyze, interpret, and communicate scientific data effectively.

Area of Emphasis: (12 units)

Required Courses: (12 units)

CHEM 11,General Chemistry I(5)

CHEM 12,General Chemistry II(5)

CHEM 55,Introduction to Chemical Instrumentation(2)