The concentration in Theoretical and Computational Chemistry aims to provide a rigorous education for Chemistry majors with special interests in theory and computation. Compared to the regular Chemistry major, additional courses in mathematics, physics, and computer science are required, while upper-division laboratory courses are optional. Unlike the rest of the specializations and concentrations in Chemistry, enrolling in this concentration requires approval by a faculty advisor. The advisor will be a member of the Theoretical and Computational Chemistry faculty group, and will assist the students in choosing elective courses tailored to their interests.<br><br>Chemistry is the science of molecules and materials. Chemistry plays a role in virtually all facets of life: whether you are interested in solar cells, medicines, food, personal care products, the atmosphere, minerals, your body, or even the origin of your own emotions, there is chemistry behind it. The Department of Chemistry at UCI is home to world-class faculty who engage in cutting edge research in diverse areas of chemistry, from atmospheric chemistry, to the biochemistry of cancer, to the development of new solar cell materials. The major in Chemistry is elected by students planning careers in the chemical sciences and frequently also by those whose interests lie in other disciplines such as biology, medicine, public health, earth sciences, ecology, secondary education, business, and law. New freshman and transfer Chemistry students are strongly encouraged to take an orientation seminar, CHEM 11, where they learn about the Chemistry major requirements, the Chemistry Department, and the career options available to students after graduation.<br><br>There is a broad spectrum of exciting careers open to people with a UCI chemistry degree because chemistry directly affects all aspects of modern life. The clothing we wear, the food we eat, the cell phones we use to communicate with each other, the gasoline we put in our cars, and millions of other things we take for granted would not exist without chemists. To help our undergraduates get the most out of their educational experience at UCI and succeed in their future professional careers, our chemistry program features specialized tracks in several important areas of modern chemical sciences (described below) and offers an ACS certified degree. In addition to a large number of exciting courses ranging from general chemistry all the way to advanced graduate level, many of our undergraduate students get an opportunity to participate in world-class research led by our distinguished faculty. The academic environment in the Department of Chemistry provides excellent preparation for students interested in pursuing further education and training in graduate, medical, pharmacy, and other professional programs.