Overview

The Department of Chemistry offers programs leading to the following degrees: M.S. without thesis, M.S. with thesis, and Ph.D. Each program offers a rewarding opportunity for independent thinking and applying oneâs creativity. In addition to the more universal components of graduate programs in Chemistry, we offer a unique introduction to the academic career field through our Teaching Mentor Program.

The graduate program is designed to take advantage of the previous experience of the incoming student. Research is undertaken with a faculty member of the student's choosing. Each student determines his or her course program with the assistance of a faculty advisor and committee. A coursework distribution augments technical skills, and it provides a broad, yet firm, background in advanced chemical and physical concepts. The student selects appropriate courses that will provide the best preparation for independent study and research. Graduate courses completed at another university may be substituted for these core courses. An M.S. degree is not required for admission to the Ph.D. program, and there is no foreign language requirement for a degree in chemistry.

The Ph.D. degree prepares students for positions in industry, research institutes, government agencies, and academia. The M.S. program differs from the Ph.D. program primarily in overall scope and depth. Three options are available for the M.S. degree: course work only, course work with research project, and course work with thesis. This degree can be tailored to meet the needs of the student. Both the M.S. and Ph.D. degrees are awarded after completion of course work and a final oral defense. Ph.D. candidates must also complete a thesis research project, a series of cumulative exams, seminars, and a preliminary oral examination.

Our department hosts a graduate recruiting weekend for prospective graduate students in Mid-March.  For more information on this opportunity, please visit the recruiting weekend web page.