The Master of Science in Chemistry will provide you with a strong foundation in advanced
chemistry, mastering areas in organic, inorganic, physical, analytical chemistry and
biochemistry. Our curriculum combines rigorous coursework with hands-on laboratory
experience, allowing you to develop expertise in chemical analysis, molecular structure,
chemical reactions and bonding. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore fields
like polymer chemistry, environmental chemistry and pharmaceutical chemistry, tailored
to your interests and career goals.
Through faculty-mentored research and collaborative projects, you will communicate
scientific outcomes effectively, translating complex results from the chemistry literature
into clear oral presentations and written documents. At the same time, the program
emphasizes integrity and ethics in science, helping you understand how responsible
research practices guide both your work and the broader scientific community.
With these skills, you’ll be prepared to make meaningful contributions in academia,
industry, research or professional fields. Join a vibrant community of scholars, immerse
yourself in cutting-edge techniques, and position yourself as a leader in the chemistry
community.
Application fee waivers are available for the Chemistry MS application. Please contact
Kelci%20Sopko to obtain a waiver code before you begin your Graduate CAS application.
The MS in Chemistry provides a strong foundation in organic, inorganic, physical,
analytical chemistry and biochemistry while preparing you for careers in academia,
industry and research. Develop hands-on laboratory and research skills, communicate
scientific findings effectively and apply integrity and ethics while exploring specialized
fields like polymer, environmental and pharmaceutical chemistry.
Explore interdisciplinary fields in biochemistry, organic, physical, materials, inorganic,
analytical, forensic, and biophysical chemistry, all within our state-of-the-art 20,000-square-foot
research facility.
Duquesne offers graduate students full access to campus resources—from fitness and
wellness services to library study spaces and career development. Live just steps
from your classes in Brottier Hall (apartment style), Des Places Hall (suite style),
or our newest graduate student apartment building, McGinley Hall.
Ph.D. Chemistry
Become an independent scientist through faculty-mentored research and advanced coursework
that deepen your understanding of molecular-level biological problems, core chemical
principles and critical analysis across areas such as enzyme kinetics, metabolic pathways,
nucleic acid chemistry and molecular biology.
Course Offerings
Below is a partial list of course offerings. A full listing of courses is available
in the program's course catalog. New courses may be added to further customize your
degree.
CHEM 503 Advanced Organic Chemistry
CHEM 505 Environmental Chemistry
CHEM 506 Physical Chemistry I
CHEM 506 Physical Chemistry II
CHEM 508 Biomolecular Structure and Function
CHEM 519 Advanced Biochemistry I
CHEM 527 Biophysical and Biochemical Characterization of Macromolecules
CHEM 528 Polymer Science
CHEM 529 Enzyme Kinetics and Mechanisms
CHEM 536 Advanced Biochemistry II
CHEM 540 Molecular Visualization and Simulation Methods
CHEM 541 Structural Proteomics
CHEM 544 Inorganic Chemistry II
CHEM 549 Single Crystal X-Ray Crystallography
CHEM 565 Advanced Instrumental Analysis
CHEM 566 Mass Spectrometry Instrumental Analysis
CHEM 567 Statistical Thermodynamics
Application Process
Applications for admission are accepted on a rolling basis for either a Fall or Spring
start. No GRE is required for admission. Application requirements include the completion
of the online application, submission of official transcripts, a statement of purpose,
and two letters of recommendation. No M.S. students are eligible for Research Assistantship
or Teaching Assistantship positions.
Learning Outcomes
Achieve a Strong Theoretical Foundation in Advanced Chemistry - Students will acquire a deep understanding of advanced concepts of Organic, Inorganic,
Physical and Analytical Chemistry and Biochemistry, preparing them for diverse applications
of chemistry in academia, industry, and professional fields.
Communicate Scientific Outcomes Effectively Through Oral and Written Methods – Students will be able to effectively disseminate results from the chemistry literature,
both through oral presentations and written documents.
Understand the Role of Integrity and Ethics in Science – Student will gain an understanding of scientific and academic ethics as well as
how it applies to both their work and the scientific community as a whole.
Accreditation
ACS accreditation ensures our undergraduate chemistry program meets rigorous national
standards, equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and experience to excel
as scientific professionals. It also enhances the program’s reputation, attracts top
students and faculty, and prepares graduates for technical careers.
