Department of Chemistry at Illinois State University

Transfer Students

Students new to the Department of Chemistry are greeted by advisors who are excited work with you to reach your personal career goals. While weaving your background into the fabric of a chemistry‐related major is not always straightforward, the Department takes pride in the high quality of freshmen and transfer students it attracts. Here you will find specific information and tools to help make an easier transition into the Department of Chemistry and work towards your Chemistry/ Chemistry Teacher Education/Biochemistry & Molecular Biology (CHE/CTE/BMB) major.

Transfer Resource Center

To access university related information for transfer students, please visit the ISU Transfer Center .

Do I need to see the advisor for transfer students in CHE/CTE/BMB?

Most likely—yes!!

Meeting with the Lead Advisor will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses based on your academic background. It is extremely helpful to meet with a chemistry advisor so you better understand the chemistry courses offered, and how your credits transferred over to Illinois State University. They will help you find placement within the major sequence and help you set and reach your academic goals. Advisors will also give you more information on the ACS exam, research opportunities and answer any questions you may have.

Progress though upper level courses is dramatically impacted on your success in lower division courses. Meaning, if you don't do well in General Chemistry and Organic Chemistry (earning a 'C' or better), you must retake these courses. When you meet with their advisor, you will discuss your process, have a better understanding of the coursework, you may be advised to repeat some classes and you may obtain special permission for other course, such as Physical Chemistry or Undergraduate Research opportunities (see below).

In addition to helping you sort through your previous coursework, the Lead Advisor will help you track your progress through courses such as math, physics, and biology. All students are often advised to diversify their course work to ensure a manageable workload throughout the semester and it also provides for a unique portfolio for career and post‐graduate study. During your meeting with an advisor, your progress through general education courses will be evaluated so you will be on track for a timely graduation.

PHSYICAL CHEMISTRY I (CHE 360)
Physical Chemistry I is a course for which students must obtain permission to register. Students will be granted permission based on their completion and/or enrollment in all pre-requisites for this class. The Lead Advisor is in the best position to interpret the transfer student's progress toward this goal.
Access the form to apply for CHE 360.

What you need to bring to your first meeting with your advisor:

  1. An up‐to‐date copy of your transcript.
  2. Your Illinois State University Identification Number and your Birth Date.
  3. A set of questions about your major.

If you do not complete these steps, advisors/mentors will ask you to reschedule.

What my advisor needs to know:

Your ISU advisor will need to know how the university has evaluated your transfer credit.

See where to go for an Academic Progress Summary.

Helpful Links

There are lots of things to remember and sometimes it's nice to have them written down. Check out tips from transfer students who "wished they'd known that" and the ISU Transfer Student Checklist.