Introductory Chemistry is a not-for-credit, distance-taught course intended for students with limited chemistry backgrounds. The material covered in the course will provide a basic understanding of the chemical principles that describe the properties and reactions of elements and compounds and provide a solid basis for tertiary chemistry study.
The course is completely distance taught, meaning students do not need to be present on the University of Otago campus at any stage. This flexibility makes it suitable for students with work or other commitments, or those studying from outside Dunedin.
Students can enrol for the course at any time during the year and take as long as they need to complete it.
Because the course is not-for-credit, it cannot be counted towards a University of Otago degree. Upon completion, students receive a letter and their marked test sheet outlining their achievement.
Course content
The course content is based on the New Zealand senior secondary school chemistry curriculum. After enrolment, students are given access to the course website and an accompanying eTextbook. Students work through the material at their own pace, with self-tests provided to help assess progress. Assessment is primarily through a final multiple-choice test.
Enrolment and fees
Students can enrol at any time during the year. A course fee of NZ$385 is payable at the time of enrolment.
Enrolment is completed online using a registration form, with payment by credit card.
Cancellations and refunds
A full refund is available within one week of purchase, minus a NZ$40 administration and handling fee. If the eTextbook registration code has been activated, an additional NZ$70 will be deducted from the refund. Enrolment indicates acceptance of the cancellation and refund terms listed on the registration page.
Further study options
The Department of Chemistry also offers the 18-point paper CHEM 150 Concepts in Chemistry in Summer School.
CHEM 150 is a six-week Summer School paper designed for students with limited chemistry backgrounds. It can be credited towards an Otago degree that allows a science paper. The first four weeks are taught and assessed online, while the final two weeks involve full-time, on-campus lectures and laboratory classes in Dunedin.
CHEM 150 has entrance restrictions and cannot be taken by students who have already passed CHEM 191 or CHEM 111.