Students pursuing an A.B. or B.S. in chemistry can qualify for graduation with distinction. To qualify for distinction, students must enroll in Chem 496 during the spring semester of their senior year, submit a written thesis to a committee of three faculty members, and participate in a research poster session at the end of the semester. Students who earn a distinction should have a B average in their major coursework. Chem 295 was previously required for graduation with distinction; however, Chem 295 is no longer offered.
Frequently Asked Questions about Graduation with Distinction
What are the steps to apply to graduate with distinction? Students should discuss their interest in graduating with distinction with their research advisors to gauge expectations. We strongly encourage having these conversations early. If research advisors agree that progress merits graduation with distinction, students should email the DUS for a permission code to register for Chem 496. Students who are registered in Chem 496 will be identified as candidates for graduation with distinction when completing graduation clearances for Trinity.
What are the recommendations to prepare for Chem 496? If possible, students should work on a literature review for enrollment in Chem 496. The literature review could serve as the basis for earning a Writing (W) code for independent study. Additionally, we generally encourage students to be enrolled in independent study concurrently with Chem 496, if possible. Occasionally, additional experiments may be needed, which may be realized while writing the thesis.
What is Chem 496? Chem 496 focuses entirely on writing the senior theses with writing activities and oral and poster presentations embedded throughout the semester. Letter grades will be assigned (S/U is not an option). Chem 496 carries a one-half W code.
Who Reads the Thesis? A panel of three faculty members, including the 496 instructors, the DUS, and the research advisor, read the thesis to ensure the student meets the requirements to earn distinction.
What resources are available?
Guidelines for Writing a Senior Thesis
Guidelines for Writing Oral Reports
Guidelines for Poster Sessions
Sources for Scientific Writing