2.7

Michael Whitney

Chemistry - University of North Dakota

2.7
Quality
3.7
Difficulty
39%
Would Retake
115
Reviews
2.7
Quality
3.7
Difficulty
2.7
Helpful
2.6
Clarity

39%

Would Retake

115

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official
115 total ratings

5

20

4

15

3

27

2

22

1

30

What Students Say

He does not make any exceptions for anything

CHEM121 - 1.0 rating

This is not a free credit class

CHEM122 - 5.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

60%

Textbook Required

13%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 57 grades
Most common grades:
A (28)
B (12)
C (6)
Grade Distribution
A(28)B(13)C(7)D(3)F(0)A-/B+(7)
Based on 64 reported grades
A: 28
B: 12
C: 6
B+: 6
Common Tags
Test heavy (21)
Participation matters (18)
Lots of homework (17)
Skip class? You won't pass. (11)
Clear grading criteria (10)
Lecture heavy (9)
Graded by few things (6)
Tough grader (6)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.43 avg change
Jan
Mar
May
Aug
Sep
Oct
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

CHEMONE

5.0

(1)

CHEM121C

3.5

(2)

121

3.3

(4)

CHEM121L

2.8

(6)

CHEM122

2.8

(46)
+4 more courses
Difficulty by Course

CHEM120

5.0

CHEMONE

4.0

CHEM121

3.9

CHEM122

3.7

CHEM122L

3.7

Reviews (114)
2.0
4.0
CHEM121
Nov 2, 2011

Not a very understanding guy. When he wrote the tests, they were significantly harder than the other professors. One time a kid asked him a question in the review session and his answer was literally, "I'll leave you to worry about that one" Doesn't seem to care whether or not students do well. You really do have to work your ass off to do well.

2.0
4.0
CHEM121
Nov 2, 2011

This professor is very hard to understand, doesn't seem to care too much about the students. He seems to mess up a lot on what he says and I find students correcting him more every day. He tells you to read the book and that is how you will do good, but he is a hard teacher. I fall asleep almost every class, because of his monotone voice.

2.0
5.0
CHEM120
Nov 3, 2011

He is the worst teacher ever and does not seem to understand what he is teaching. He does not do any other points than quizzes and tests. He seems clueless and does not care about his students. He makes many mistakes. He wrote the last test and it was unbelievably difficult. Do not get him as a teacher.

3.0
4.0
CHEM121
Nov 4, 2011

I hadn't taken chem in 3 years, studied 20-25 hrs for each test and I've managed A's so far. Doing the practice probs (he posts answers - LOVE!) and worksheets he posted really helped. Typical boring lecture class, but at least he speaks English. Unlike other UND chem profs he can still explain to a lay audience. Chem isn't fun, but Whit's not bad

5.0
4.0
CHEM121
Nov 4, 2011

Chemistry is a difficult subject, but the tests are standardized throughout the department. Whitney answers the students' questions in class and gives them the study tools to help on the tests. If you have to take chem, consider taking Whitney.

5.0
3.0
CHEM121
Nov 4, 2011

Whitney lays out the material in the class in an understandable manner, and is a very likable guy. I had an issue with missing a class for ROTC, and he made sure I knew what material would be covered. All notes are put online in case you miss class. Read the book, go to class, and do the practice tests, and you will be fine.

2.0
4.0
CHEM122
Nov 7, 2011

His lectures rarely reflect what will be on the exams. I personally went to him for help and he was rude and inconsiderate. He makes many mistakes in nearly every class. Unless you have a thorough chemistry background and need little help, do NOT take a class from whitney.

3.0
5.0
CHEM121
Nov 13, 2011

Tests are standardized and ridiculously hard, even for someone good at taking tests. Class average on the tests is a D- and there is no curve. Quizzes and tests are the only grades in the class. He's nice and cares about his students. Chem 121 is harder than my 300 and 400 level classes. Don't take the class unless you absolutely have to.

5.0
3.0
CHEM121
Nov 16, 2011

It doesn't really matter what teacher you get because each teacher takes turn making their own test. If you have to take chemistry, Whitney is a kind and helpful teacher. He also gives extra help like optional practice worksheets to complete before tests.

5.0
4.0
CHEMONE
Dec 2, 2011

I'm very glad I was in Whitney's class for chem 121. You can tell he really cares about his students. If you don't understand something, do not blame it on him because if you ask him to clarify he will explain. Great teacher!

3.0
3.0
CHEM122
Dec 20, 2011

He isn't the best at lecturing, confuses himself, and often makes mistakes. If you aren't one to read the textbook, you will probably struggle in class. His exams are primarily conceptual questions rather than computations.

4.0
4.0
CHEM121
Apr 26, 2012

I'm not the biggest fan of the chemistry department at UND, but Whitney did a fairly decent job with the class. He gets confused sometimes and still seems to be trying to figure out how he wants to teach, but he cares a lot about the students and does his best to clarify something if you are confused.

3.0
3.0
CHEM121
Aug 13, 2012

Whitney is a nice guy and he is working on his teaching technique. He can be very unclear and confusion but can do well on other subjects. He really does care though and is great about answering questions. Chemistry is not all that easy so you do have to go to class. Go to his office and work at it and you'll do well.

1.0
5.0
CHEM122
Nov 1, 2012

Mr. Whitney has been attemping to work on his teaching techniques, and his ideas are quite good. However, he still doesn't seem to understand the material he teaches. He makes mistakes constantly and is often unclear. Exams are much harder than what is taught in class and on homework. I would definitely not recommend Whitney for Chem 121 or 122.

2.0
4.0
CHEM122
Nov 2, 2012

He is a nice enough guy, but in terms of teaching the subject, he is very bad. he does not lecture well, often messes up in class lectures, and does not present class examples well. I would not recommend this professor to others

5.0
5.0
CHEM121
Nov 2, 2012

I had to take this course 3 times to finally get the C I needed. I took it with a different professor each time. I never had chemistry in high school so it was extremely difficult for me, Whitney actually explains things and will try hard to get you to understand. By far the most helpful! It is a hard course, but I would recommend him for it.

4.0
3.0
CHEM122
Dec 19, 2012

He is an average teacher. Although he gets easily confused and often mixes things up, he truly wants his students to do well. He offers recitation sessions if youre confused and also offers a good chunk of extra credit. The online homework he assigns really helps prepare you for the tests. I would recommend him.

4.0
2.0
CHEM122
Jan 1, 2013

I found lectures very unhelpful. There was a time that he messed up and came back the next day to blame it on us. The only way I learned in this class is by reading the book and doing problems from the book.

1.0
5.0
CHEM121
Jan 17, 2013

First chem class I have ever taken, none even in high school. This class was extremely difficult for me and Mr. Whitney often got confused in lecture and that led to me being even more confused on the subject matters at hand. Had to drop or else I wouldn't have passed with a C like needed. My TA for lab was 100x more helpful than Whitney.

2.0
3.0
CHEM122
Apr 10, 2013

just a generally boring class. Answeres questions if asked, but keeps moving forward. Not the best at explanations

3.0
4.0
CHEM122
Apr 18, 2013

He is one of the better chem professors, which isn't saying much. He usually gets confused during his lectures and has to start over. To get an A, make sure you go to the recitations and do the practice problems in the book. He doesn't do a whole lot of teaching during his lectures. I would take him over some of the foreign teachers in the dept

2.0
4.0
CHEM121
Apr 22, 2013

all around horrible teacher. Lecture was boring and unclear. And many things were skipped in lecture that were on the test. Basically wouldn't recommend him

3.0
3.0
CHEM122
Apr 28, 2013

Although he generally knew his stuff he would get extremely confused when answering questions from the class. Attendance and attentiveness was low in CHEM 122 because he is pretty dull and monotoned. MasteringChem taught me everything I know to pass the test though.

4.0
3.0
CHEM121
Jun 5, 2013

Very nice guy, he really wants you to succeed, and offers a lot of extra credit. However, he would often get confused and have to backtrack to reexplain it. He would also mention things for 122, which wasn't necessary. His examples were helpful, but mastering chemistry was far more helpful in teaching the concepts. Go for help immediately if needed

5.0
2.0
CHEM121
Dec 3, 2013

He is very clear in his lectures and knows his material really well. He was fun to listen in lecture just because of his personality. He was always open to helping student after class if they had any problems or questions.

5.0
2.0
CHEM122
Grade: Not_Sure_Yet
Dec 15, 2013

He was a great instructor. He really wanted his students to succeed. He seemed very knowledgeable but was also able to communicate the ideas effectively to his students. He was pleasant and his lectures were not as dull as chem can be. His humor sometimes fell flat, but overall he made the class enjoyable. He was willing to help any way he could.

3.0
3.0
CHEM121
Dec 17, 2013

Lecture is super boring but it is helpful if attended, and the in class clicker quizzes help him keep track of who does actually go to class and factor into some of the grade. Tests are often harder than necessary bc not all material is covered in class. he records lectures and posts them which is great and notes are all online too. decent teacher!

2.0
5.0
CHEM121
Grade: Fail
Dec 19, 2013

He was encouraging and nice, but a bad teacher. The tests were inconsistent in their content and attending class had almost no point at all, except for the odd quiz. When a student would ask a question, he would get confused and make it more confusing for us. The review sessions for the tests were a joke. If you are a chem major, avoid UND.

4.0
1.0
CHEM121C
Dec 28, 2013

He does not spoonfeed everything and does expect you to read. Goes through examples and hints at what kinds of things he likes to ask on exams which is more important for DEDP students since he picks all the questions. Focus on examples from class, suggested book problems and exam reviews and you will be fine. Mastering Chem homework is busywork.

5.0
4.0
CHEM121
Grade: A
Feb 26, 2014

He teaches a couple different classes I'm in. The classes he teaches are hard however he does do everything he can to help his students. Tests are almost straight from the book.

1.0
5.0
CHEM122
Apr 8, 2014

Horrible teacher. Not helpful at all. Never know what will be on exam. Most of the time I feel as if the students know more of the chemistry than he does. DO NOT TAKE HIS CLASS!!!

1.0
5.0
CHEM122
Apr 10, 2014

Horrible teacher along with the rest of the chemistry department. Why can't these idiots see that they need to make a change when only about half of each class passes. If you plan to major in chemistry, do not go here.

2.0
4.0
CHEM122
Apr 22, 2014

Nice guy but lectures are boring, class is hard to understand, and exams are near impossible. Better than some general chemistry options out there, but there's also definitely better.

4.0
3.0
CHEM122
Grade: A
May 5, 2014

Lectures are summaries of the textbook material. He does expect work from you. Holds reviews, exams were similar to HW, and cares about students succeeding. He does help when asked, but again, you have to study hard in this class or you won't do that well. He's also thorough in explanations. Best chem professor I've had.

2.0
3.0
CHEM121
May 13, 2014

Nice guy but not helpful in lecture to those who don't understand/ aren't great at chemistry. Test weren't always written by him. Tests that were were mainly based on examples and homework. Mastering Chemistry was busy work and couldn't be used to study from later on. Over all, I would suggest that if you have the option take it from someone else.

4.0
4.0
CHEM121
Grade: D+
May 14, 2014

He's not a bad teacher, its just a hard class and you cover ALOT of material. Make sure you show for class or you will quickly fall behind.

2.0
5.0
CHEM122
May 15, 2014

All around, not a very good professor. Lectures were a summary of the book and boring so it was pretty pointless to go to class; I would recommend watching his class lecture recordings online at double speed. Also, he was so bad at returning emails and I would not recommend him.

5.0
3.0
CHEM122
Grade: A
May 15, 2014

Lectures summarize the reading (as it should) but does not spoon feed you everything. M/C homework is busy work but a couple question do show up on exams. Most exam problems are from suggested book problems, definitions & class examples. He responds to emails at all hours of the day if you have questions. Will curve exams depending on class avg.

5.0
3.0
CHEM122
May 21, 2014

Yes he "dares" to make you read the book. Does not give all the answers in lecture. Does give several examples of the calculations needed on exams, and hints at things he asks on exams. The rest of the exams are definitions which you do not need lecture to learn. 122 is harder, but he does curve some exams. If you stay near the avg you will be OK.

4.0
3.0
CHEM122
Jul 20, 2014

Chemistry is not easy and neither is this course. But, he wanted students to understand. I would recommend him for a teacher but do not expect it to be easy.

4.0
5.0
CHEM121
Aug 3, 2014

I took Chem 121 in the summer with this professor, and I would recommend only taking his classes if you are planning to succeed by attending class where he will overview tests and assignments. Test were fairly easy and I understood Chemistry better than ever before after a semester with him. I survived going to every class for 2 hours 3x a week!

3.0
4.0
CHEM122
Mar 4, 2015

Professor Whitney really tries. He wants students to do well and pass but he just does not have very good teaching methods. His lectures are barely useful. Most of the time it is just Learning Catalytics or in class assignments. If Whitney would open up more to student ideas of what works and doesn't he would be more successful.

3.0
4.0
CHEM122
Grade: A
May 7, 2015

Whitney's not necessarily terrible, but the class ends up being really monotonous and uninteresting. He does a somewhat decent job explaining the topics, but could certainly be much more clear and engaging.

5.0
4.0
CHEM122
May 19, 2015

Find someone who has old tests but if you follow the learning goals you're fine. Homework is mastering chemistry - the usual. I went to both Whitney and Mattingly's lecture. I'd say whitney is a little better because he goes over concepts as 70% of your test will be conceptual.

4.0
4.0
CHEM122
Grade: B
May 20, 2015

Your best bet to do well on the tests is to take good notes during class and try to find someone that has tests from previous semesters and study those. Sometimes though, he may throw in some questions from the text that wasn't in lecture. Whitney is very good at responding to emails in a very timely manor and truly wants his students to succeed.

3.0
4.0
121
Aug 31, 2015

If you didn't take Chemistry in high school like me then you are screwed. He assumes everyone knows what he is talking about but doesn't really actually teach anything in his lectures. His lectures are mainly him asking questions and the class answering back online, which again doesn't really teach you concepts if you haven't learned them prior.

2.0
5.0
CHEM122
Grade: B
Oct 15, 2015

Don't take this class from Mr. Whitney if you can avoid it. You will be expected to learn almost all the material on your own outside of class and get quizzed on it during "lecture." Not a good teacher at all.

3.0
4.0
CHEM121
Nov 4, 2015

Without previous chemistry experience, the class would be practically impossible to pass. Even the text book does not explain much. Remember children: Khan Academy is your friend. Tests are all multiple choice and every 4 questions you miss drops you a letter grade. Plus, there are things on the test that aren't taught in class since.

1.0
5.0
CHEM121
Grade: C
Dec 2, 2015

In order to even somewhat understand any of the material, you must be prepared to read, take a lot of notes, and basically completely teach yourself all of the material. Whitney teaches at a very fast pace and it is hard to follow along unless you have taken notes on the material prior to class.

3.0
1.0
CHEM122
Grade: B
Dec 18, 2015

Whitney's lectures are pretty much useless but his homework and in-class problem sets are exactly what are on the exams and are very straightforward. Exams are easy and taken once individually and once with a team and the two scores are averaged. It is difficult to get worse than a C on any exams. If you show up, you'll pass.

1.0
5.0
CHEM121L
Oct 16, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Whitney is not involved at all with his lab. Gives minimal instruction to his TAs regarding lab resulting in terrible execution. Would not take this class unless absolutely required. Does not care whether you pass or not.

3.0
3.0
CHEM121C
Grade: B+
Dec 17, 2016
Would take again

He is an understanding professor which is what you'll eventually end up wanting throughout your degree. His lectures are mediocre, but he gives very clear guidelines on what to expect for tests which is a huge help. Be sure to do the homework as well as sample test before each test and there's no way you'll average less than a B.

Gives good feedback
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
EXTRA CREDIT
1.0
4.0
CHEM122
Feb 3, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Terrible If you're thinking about taking this class i suggest you just pay for the class then skip every day because he doesn't teach you anything when you're there anyways.

Get ready to read
<xmlns:texthelpns rwthpgen="1">Skip class?</xmlns:texthelpns><xmlns:texthelpns rwthpgen="1"> You won't pass.</xmlns:texthelpns>
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
2.0
5.0
CHEM122
Nov 9, 2017
Wouldn't take again

he completely changed the way the class was ran. homework for the class was on three different websites, homework was confusing as well as difficult. You don't learn much in the lecture, you learn more outside of class on your own than in class. Difficult professor, if you can, avoid this professor if you want to learn.

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
5.0
5.0
CHEM122
Grade: A
Dec 15, 2017
Would take again

This is not a free credit class. Thank being said, do your easy assignments and show up for class. As for the tests, DO NOT STUDY from Knewton as they are baby questions. He has practice problems on Blackboard and the tests mirror them so it is easy to study for. If you do not study expect a F as none of the test questions are gimmes.

Gives good feedback
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tests are tough
1.0
3.0
CHEM122
Apr 6, 2018
Wouldn't take again

He's getting paid to talk through powerpoints he posts on blackboard and coordInating how you are graded. Barely ever touch textbook, all online work even in class, and rarely reminds students about due dates for ANYTHING. His suplement course tImes where you likely learn something are weekly outside of class time.

1.0
4.0
CHEM122
Grade: C
Apr 9, 2018
Wouldn't take again

This class is honestly awful, the average grade on most exams is barely a C, probably around 70%. He makes you do the Aleks homework before the lecture so you honestly have no idea what you are doing or how to even do it. Lectures he reads off the powerpoint and does maybe 2 practice problems but this doesn't cover nearly enough of what it should.

Skip class? You won't pass.
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
5.0
4.0
CHEM122
Grade: A
May 5, 2018
Would take again

I should probably preface this with the fact that most of his students are 18-year-olds who need their hands held through all matters of life. This is typically taken during the second semester of most students freshman year. Professor Whitney plays by the &quot;Big Boy&quot; rules and expects his students to earn their grade. He's hard but very fair.

Tough Grader
Gives good feedback
Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
5.0
CHEM122
Grade: C
Jun 26, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Mr. Whitney is a nice guy, but like all other professors in the Chem department at a UND, he doesnt know how to teach. I am a senior at UND, so I came prepared to do the work. The exams are nothing like what you are told to study for. Tons of trick questions.

Skip class? You won't pass.
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
TEST HEAVY
1.0
5.0
CHEM121
Nov 30, 2018
Wouldn't take again

He does not care about his students one bit, I am sure he is okay outside of class but in class he wasn't good. He does not make any exceptions for anything. Also he seems too busy to have office hours so you will not be able to get into contact with him.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
3.0
2.0
CHEM121L
Grade: A
Dec 7, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Mr Whitney is not easy to get in contact with. He is a strict grader, and not willing to curve your grade at all. He doesn't seem like he cares about his students and how they do in his classes. This class was easy tho, show up and turn in the homework and you should be good.

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
3.0
3.0
CHEM122
Grade: A
May 15, 2019
Would take again

Taking 122 with Whitney online was much easier then taking it in class. Two of the tests were the exact same as the practice tests so if you studied you could get 100% pretty easily. TAKE THIS ONLINE. Whitney also tried to explain material the best that he could and the lectures online were much better then attending class I thought.

Test heavy
2.0
4.0
CHEM121
Grade: B
Nov 25, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Whitney's in class time is spent with him reading off of slides and doing a couple practice problems, then learning catalytics. The tests are much different from the material gone over in class, and the textbook is little help as well. Additionally, grades are put in very seldom if at all. Good luck.

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
1.0
4.0
CHEM121
Jan 7, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Whitney couldn't care less about his students. He seemed proud when his test average was a 70%. During the lectures, he would read off of slides and then attempt to do a few practice problems but continuously mess up and confuse everyone. Plus, the ALEKS you would spend an entire week trying to complete will only be worth 8 points.

Lots of homework
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
CHEM121
Grade: B
Feb 3, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Typically pretty rude to students. If you don't understand a topic, go see a different prof. He is very unprepared for lecture and makes many mistakes that end up confusing the students more than they already were.

Lots of homework
Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
2.0
3.0
CHEM121L
Grade: A
May 4, 2020
Wouldn't take again

The labs will be graded based on participation and execution of lab materials, practicals, group lab reports, and a quiz. Try and get a decent TA for this section and avoid the TA Casey. If you show up for the lab each week, you should be totally fine. Prof Whitney makes his lab expectations clear and pretty straightforward.

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
Group projects
4.0
3.0
CHEM122
Grade: A
Nov 18, 2020
Would take again

This class is usually taken by freshmen in the spring semester. A lot of people complain about him but when I took his class it was actually not too bad. I think the complaints are usually from freshmen who are transitioning into college and normally high school chemistry is a cake walk.

Lots of homework
Participation matters
Test heavy
4.0
4.0
CHEM121
Grade: A
Dec 17, 2020
Would take again

A lot of people in the class with me were not fond of Whitney, however he is a really nice dude, that being said I wouldn't say he is the best teacher ever, but I wouldn't listen to all the people who complain about him. Because at the end of the day, if you study and take the class seriously, there's no way you make less than a B. Test are easy.

Respected
Accessible outside class
Caring
2.0
4.0
CHEM122
Mar 1, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Professor Whitney is a nice man, but I really did not click with him as a professor. You would learn about something and instantly right after you learned it he would quiz you about it leaving little room for questions. These quizzes would then go on to be a large part of the grade that can bring you down a whole percent after just one day of class

Graded by few things
Test heavy
Beware of pop quizzes
4.0
3.0
CHEM122
Grade: B
Apr 15, 2021
Would take again

His lectures can get a little slow, but the in class quizzes can be helpful. Some people aren't very fond of him, but if you listen in lectures and do the homework, it's pretty easy to end with a good grade.

2.0
3.0
CHEM122L
Grade: A
May 18, 2021
Wouldn't take again

He was decent to work with, but did not really seem to know what was going on in his class. That was the TAs job to him. Problem was that the TA didn't know what was going on either. Left us with some really confusing and conflicting instructions. Not very helpful.

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
3.0
CHEM121
Grade: A
Dec 11, 2021
Wouldn't take again

TAKE MATTINGLY INSTEAD skips over questions asked in class unorganized slides doesn't provide any other information or tools besides the slides ended up getting slides and practice questions from a student in matthingly's class. If you are very good at studying then you'll be fine. I would not suggest taking him if you are moving to 122.

Lots of homework
Clear grading criteria
3.0
4.0
CHEM122
Grade: Rather not say
Dec 16, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Whitney was fine as a prof and seems like an overall nice person. Lectures were fine too. Problem I had was I just did not click with his lectures and exams were a bit challenging. Labs were pretty simple but really boring and a little hard to follow along with. Just go to lecture/lab, do the homework, and it should be fine.

Lots of homework
3.0
4.0
CHEM122
Jan 7, 2022
Wouldn't take again

Attendance is not mandatory but definitely don't recommend skipping. Lecture PP are very vague so if you try to take them outside of class you won't have enough information for the test. Practice exams are available but not the best way to study, typically don't match up with the exam. Alek and LC scores will SAVE your grade.

Test heavy
1.0
4.0
CHEM122
Grade: B
Feb 23, 2022
Wouldn't take again

Doesn't teach everything he puts on his tests and gives so much homework.

Lots of homework
Test heavy
Tough grader
4.0
3.0
CHEM122
Grade: B+
Apr 11, 2022
Would take again

He is definitely over hated. If you put in the work and show up to lectures it shouldn't be too bad.

Participation matters
Test heavy
Accessible outside class
1.0
5.0
CHEM121
Grade: C
Apr 26, 2022

This professor is the oldest professor in the chemistry department, when asked why the fail rates of his classes are so high he gives off any excuse he can. He teaches as if the students already know most material, breezing over some topics, and also does not cover everything on the exams. Not much help when emailed. TAKE. SOMEONE. ELSE.

Participation matters
Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
CHEM121L
Grade: B
Aug 12, 2022
Would take again

Great professor for Online CHEM 121Lab. Supplies shipped to my home and the labs were enjoyable. It wasn't the hardest class i've taken but a good challenge and I learned a few things. I would recommend this professor!

Caring
Respected
1.0
3.0
221L
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 6, 2022

Not understanding of absences at all. I had to miss one lab for my sisters wedding and emailed him multiple weeks in advance- no response. I emailed him 2 weeks before the date again and he finally responded saying I have to accept not receiving any credit for the lab and that it would be an unexcused absence. Have heard of many similar situations.

Participation matters
1.0
4.0
CHEM121
Oct 10, 2022

Whitney doesn't care at all. Lectures aren't worth much and he only teaches about 25% of what you need to know. After only teaching you 25%, he immediately quizzes you with LC which can definitely add up over time. The only way to learn in this class is to make a study guide using the learning objectives provided in the syllabus. Not recommended.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
CHEM121
Oct 17, 2022
Would take again

I took the enroll anytime for Chem121 and Chem121L. Prof. Whitney responded within 24 hrs to my emails, answered homework related questions, and spoke with me about my accomodations. The course is a lot of work but it's pretty typical for a general chem course. If you do the homework modules, and use them for review too, then you'll be all set.

Gives good feedback
Lots of homework
Accessible outside class
3.0
4.0
121
Grade: A
Oct 26, 2022
Would take again

Whitney's lectures are hard to fallow and he does give off the impression that he isn't prepared for class often, because he commonly makes mistakes within the lectures. Overall the class was not too bad for a gen chem class, but it does take some work to keep a good grade in the class.

EXTRA CREDIT
Test heavy
4.0
4.0
CHEM121
Grade: A
Dec 6, 2022
Would take again

Chem with Whitney was not as bad as expected. His lectures are annoying because the content is not how it is applied to the exam. You have to d study the learning guides on the syllabus rather than your notes from lectures because they do not apply to the exam. As long as you show up you shouldn't have trouble staying on track for the most part.

Participation matters
Lots of homework
3.0
2.0
CHEM121L
Grade: A
Dec 9, 2022
Would take again

If you show up do the lab as it says in the textbook, you will be totally fine. I really don't know how you could get anything short of an A if you actively participate.

Participation matters
Group projects
2.0
4.0
CHEM121
Grade: A
Dec 9, 2022

Professor Whitney is a nice person, but unfortunately he isn't that good at teaching. He makes mistakes much more often than other professors which can lead to a lot of confusion. The lectures themselves can also be pretty confusing at times, and honestly you can find videos online that explain the concepts much more clearly.

Clear grading criteria
Beware of pop quizzes
Lecture heavy
3.0
3.0
CHEM121L
Grade: B
Dec 23, 2022

Class is pretty easy, really depends on who your lab TA is. Labs weren't super hard and lab reports were always graded well as long as they were turned in on time. Make sure you go and you'll be fine.

Participation matters
5.0
1.0
CHEM122
Grade: A
Feb 6, 2023
Would take again

Underrated. Very accommodating if you communicate with him. Answers emails quickly.

Accessible outside class
1.0
5.0
CHEM122
Grade: Not sure yet
Feb 7, 2023

Whitney is not an accommodating professor because he rudely denied my accommodations for my ADD. He completely went out of his way to refuse my note-taking accommodation even though I have been approved for the accommodations. If your a student with disabilities, DO NOT TAKE HIM. He obviously has a prejudice against students with disabilities.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
CHEM122
Grade: C-
Apr 3, 2023

The homework doesn't match the test material.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
3.0
4.0
CHEM122
Aug 26, 2023

unlike other professors' gen chem classes at und, whitney's is much harder. I did enroll anytime and was thrown by the questions being unlike ALEKs at all. But it isn't impossible to do well. Just read the textbook, work through the problems within the chapters (dont bother with the end of chapter ones) and youll do okay. quiz questions on test btw

Clear grading criteria
3.0
5.0
CHEM122
Grade: A
Aug 28, 2023
Would take again

If you want an easy A, this is not the teacher to take gen chem with. But his learning objectives really do force you to read the textbook in a way that makes you actually understand the material. Lots of his test questions are from the quizzes so make sure to study those, the learning objectives, and know the ALEKS. He is definitely overhated

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
CHEM121
Grade: B+
Sep 28, 2023

The textbook for this class has way too many errata. There is no feedback on exams except for grade. Thus, even when asked for areas to study further you may be met with resistance to provide direct, meaningful feedback. Zero explicit instruction. Thank goodness for homework and quizzes. (And thank you to Khan Academy for teaching me).

Lots of homework
Test heavy
1.0
3.0
CHEM122
Grade: B-
Dec 7, 2023

He took away almost all homework so our grade was mostly exam-based and quizzes. His lectures did not correspond with exams at all. Attendance was not mandatory but a smaller class so he would throw a fit and call you out if he noticed you were absent one day. I do not recommend this professor at all.

Tough grader
Test heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
3.0
CHEM121
Grade: C
Dec 21, 2023
Would take again

I had him for Chem 121 and Chem 121L. I was worried to take him because of all the comment but I soon found out that they were all wrong. This was an online class so when I would email him he always got back to me within 24 hours as long as it wasn't a weekend. Was willing to help you when you emailed him with any questions you had.

Clear grading criteria
Caring
3.0
4.0
CHEM121
Grade: A
Jan 2, 2024
Would take again

He is a professor that gets to the point, if you are trying in his class then you will like him. Get ready to study.

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
CHEM121
Grade: C
Feb 6, 2024

Only points are on Tests, doesn't lecture reads off board, and makes "mistakes"

Test heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
4.0
CHEM121
Grade: D+
Feb 23, 2024

He knows his chemistry, but he CANNOT teach it to save his life. He messes up at least once every class which leaves you more confused. Our last exam class average was 55% and he told us that he was disappointed that we didn't let the math speak to us. I go to class everyday and everyday I leave with not an ounce of knowledge. Will NEVER take again

Participation matters
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
CHEM121
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Mar 12, 2024

Whitney has really bad authority issues. He loves being in control and exerting it every chance he gets. He has a "tough luck" mentality and won't help or work with students unless they're breaking down in tears. I have yet to meet a student who actually likes this professor. I recommend Dr. Mattingly for Chemistry any day over Whitney.

3.0
2.0
CHEM121
Grade: A
Apr 2, 2024
Would take again

Whitney is not a great professor but he is not a bad professor. He does often get flustered during lectures but overall seems like a sweet guy. If you do have to take Whitney, you will survive so don't stress. Be prepared for every class to be all lecture and I recommend reading the textbook even though it is boring.

Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
2.0
2.0
121
Grade: A-
May 2, 2024

He isn't too great with his lectures. He glosses over important things and goes way too in depth for less important things. I personally wasn't a fan of his lectures, but, if you enjoy researching on your own, by all means take his class.

Participation matters
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
4.0
121
Grade: A
May 11, 2024
Would take again

I enjoyed having Mr.Whitney as an instructor. He cared about student success and was very helpful if you ask. He was very good at communicating deadlines and information about exams. His lectures were a bit lacking in relevant information sometimes though. If you like learning on your own you will probably enjoy his class.

Participation matters
Caring
Accessible outside class
1.0
4.0
CHEM121
Grade: A
Jun 24, 2024

If you're in the online section, expect to teach yourself everything. Prof responds to email but that's all you'll get. ALEKS homework is frustrating and takes forever. Quiz questions aren't in the same style of the textbook examples or the ALEKS problems. Frustrating and time-consuming, but put in the hours and you'll get an A.

Lots of homework
Test heavy
1.0
4.0
CHEM121
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 29, 2024

If you don't already have a background in chemistry be prepared to be confused all the time and have to teach yourself through ALEKS or other outside resources. In lecture he doesn't teach the content or do examples he just says a few words then puts up a Top Hat question to answer when he didn't even show how to do it. VERY unhelpful and rude.

Test heavy
3.0
3.0
CHEM122
Grade: A
Nov 9, 2024
Would take again

I took Chem 122 a couple years ago with Dr. Whitney, and it was terrible. However, this time around, was a completely different experience. He has completely reworked the class. It is now simpler, and less dependent on exam grades. The content is now laid out in a way that is easy to understand, and the exams are broken into multiple parts.

Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
2.0
4.0
CHEM121
Grade: B
Nov 22, 2024

nothing more

5.0
4.0
CHEM121
Grade: A
Dec 13, 2024
Would take again

Whitney is a really caring and fun professor! He teaches you exactly what you need to know for the exams. You may have to do reading and extra work outside the class like ALEKS; however, it helps you in the long run understand what you are working on.

EXTRA CREDIT
Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
3.0
4.0
CHEM121
Grade: B+
Dec 18, 2024
Would take again

HIs teaching style is very interesting compared to the other Chem 121 Teachers. He goes way more into depth about topics that are never covered during the exams. Attendence is highly reccommended and you get points for it, but not required. ALEKS will save you for this class because it covers everything you need to know and is a great resource.

Participation matters
Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
3.0
3.0
CHEM121
Grade: B
Jan 28, 2025
Would take again

Professor Whitney may not be the most polished lecturer, but if you put in the work, you can succeed. The ALEKS homework can be frustrating, but using resources like Unstuck study and the textbook can help. Overall, with diligence, you can get through this class.

1.0
5.0
CHEM122L
Grade: B+
Mar 3, 2025

i dont lick him

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lots of homework
1.0
4.0
CHEM121
Grade: A
Mar 18, 2025

You will teach yourself everything. The material is not hard and if you take the time to understand it you will. he will confuse you at every step he can. Half the stuff he says is wrong. You will be fine if you dont listen to him and learn on your own. He does respond to emails very quickly.

Lecture heavy
2.0
4.0
CHEM121
Grade: B
May 1, 2025

I do not like the way Whitney lectures. He often gives problems for in-class points without explaining how to do them, which left me confused. ALEKs is annoying but easy points to raise your grade. He doesn't give much review material before the exams, so it's hard to know what to study, especially when practicing the math problems.

Participation matters
Lots of homework
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
CHEM122L
Grade: A
Aug 3, 2025
Would take again

[NDSU] I had the online chem 122L course for Whitney. I really loved that class. In order to get a good grade, you just have to do the work thoughtfully, and as long as you try your best, while reading every step for the experiments, you'll do just fine. It says he's a tough grader, I didn't find that to be true for my experience. He was very nice!

Clear grading criteria
Accessible outside class
1.0
5.0
CHEM121
Grade: B+
Sep 26, 2025

Do not recommend Chem 121 with this him. 80% of your total grade is ALL EXAMS, video lectures, skip key examples, and ALEKS work is excessive. Exams are ALL proctored & don't align with lectures. No extra credit or helpful assignments make it difficult to succeed. His lectures are long and unnecessary for exams. Quizzes do not help either. AVOID

Lots of homework
Test heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
1.0
CHEM121
Grade: A
Oct 23, 2025
Would take again

Self-paced enroll anytime Chem 1. Course overall is very easy, but it's a lot of work (the ALEKS system gives you unlimited attempts at everything but sets you back if you get too much wrong). There's a quiz after every chapter, and questions on these quizzes are the same ones on the tests. There's no opportunity to review the tests though.

Clear grading criteria
Lots of homework
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

60%

Textbook Required

13%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 57 grades
Most common grades:
A (28)
B (12)
C (6)
Grade Distribution
A(28)B(13)C(7)D(3)F(0)A-/B+(7)
Based on 64 reported grades
A: 28
B: 12
C: 6
B+: 6
Common Tags
Test heavy (21)
Participation matters (18)
Lots of homework (17)
Skip class? You won't pass. (11)
Clear grading criteria (10)
Lecture heavy (9)
Graded by few things (6)
Tough grader (6)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.43 avg change
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Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

CHEMONE

5.0

(1)

CHEM121C

3.5

(2)

121

3.3

(4)

CHEM121L

2.8

(6)

CHEM122

2.8

(46)
+4 more courses
Difficulty by Course

CHEM120

5.0

CHEMONE

4.0

CHEM121

3.9

CHEM122

3.7

CHEM122L

3.7

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