[Michael4]

I have a dilemma on my hands. The time has come for me to choose an area of focus to complete my undergraduate degree (BS). About half the courses are ACS certified course, the other half, not.

Based on my interest alone, I would choose Physical Chemistry as a focal point. Despite being a credit intensive specialization, and including many of the core chem courses of the other branches, is not an ACS certifiable choice.

Would one recommend I choose one that is ACS certified? Are employment opportunities greatly increase with this achievement? ACS seems to push me into quite a bit of Bio Chemistry courses. I haven't a problem with this, but it's not my primary reason for choosing chemistry as a major. I'm highly fond of Atomic physics, Quantum chemistry, Kinetics, Nanotech and so forth.

Has anyone experience with ACS in advancing their careers? Is there a good reason why ACS has disapproved of the Rutgers Physical chem curriculum?

[Doc Oc]

It's a meaningless certification.  If I were interviewing people for a job, that would not be a criteria that I would use to judge anyone.

[fledarmus]

I'm not anywhere close to human resources, but as far as I can tell, if your college degree is accredited, that is all anybody really cares about.

[Michael4]

Thanks Doc, your opinion as a senior scientist is highly valued. Same to you, Fledarmus. I had a feeling this was the case, but at the same time I felt a strong need to achieve this certification. Perhaps as a some sort of shiny, badge of honor. Crazy, I know.

ACS is such a large organization. As a chemist I feel as though I should be a part of it. When it comes down it, I would rather learn the criteria that interests me most.

Thanks again.

[JGK]

There are plenty of professional bodies around which may be more applicable to your chosen career path (I'm a member of the RSC, AOCS and AOAC).

the ACS seem desperate to get new members in at the moment (maybe because of this http://www.rsc.org/chemistryworld/News/2010/June/24061001.asp)

However, I lost all desire to join when I looked at the info they sent me. To join you need to apply with the support of two existing members. Then they give ma an application form presigned by two very senior officials making it a rubber stamp exercise to get in.

[Jasim]

Here's a funny fact: you don't even have to be an ACS member to be a member of their divisions (like subgroups or specialty groups). I know for a fact. I don't actually have a chemistry degree so I don't qualify for ACS membership, but I am a member of ACS - Division of Analytical Sciences (hell of a lot cheaper too!).

As JGK said there are TONS of groups and societies out there. Some are highly specialized. I would utilize them more for networking or information and resource sharing than anything. ACS isn't all that. Don't sweat it.

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