Several options are available for student to pursue research projects and independent study in chemistry on campus.
During the academic year:
Independent Research (IR, Chem 398) is a one credit course taken under the direction of a faculty mentor. Generally, this is a hands-on laboratory experience.
Independent Study (IS, Chem 298) is also a one credit course taken under the direction of a faculty mentor. Generally, this is a library based exploration of the literature focused on a chemistry related topic.
Forms for both IR and IS must be filed with the Registrar’s office. Click the “Forms and Requests” button at the Registrar’s web site and find the “Independent Study/Research” link.
Independent Research may also be accomplished by registration in Chem 297. This course may be taken for 1.0, 0.50, or 0.25 credits. In general, a level II research course will precede a level III research course (such as Chem 398). Chem 297 is a P/N only course; letter grades are not given. Talk to your research mentor about how to register for Chem 297.
Advanced Lab (Chem 375) is a 0.25 credit course taken under the direction of a faculty mentor. Generally, this is a hands-on laboratory experience used for learning a particular technique or set of techniques that is not generally research related. Register for Chem 375 with an “add” slip signed by your Chem 375 faculty member.
Please check with your faculty advisor or any member of the chemistry faculty for more information about research and independent study.
During the summer:
At St. Olaf: Collaborative Undergraduate Research and Inquiry
Throughout the nation:
Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) funded by the National Science Foundation.