We offer comprehensive opportunities for advanced study and research through our Master of Science (MS) in Chemistry and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Chemistry programs. Immerse yourself in a robust curriculum that fuels intellectual curiosity and propels career growth. Our MS program provides a tailored education in core principles, advanced coursework, and specialized electives, equipping you with skills to excel in academia, industry, or research. The PhD program offers a transformative experience, combining rigorous coursework, comprehensive examinations, and original research under esteemed faculty guidance.

Learning Outcomes

  •  Advanced Knowledge: Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of core principles and advanced topics in chemistry through coursework and specialized electives.
  • Research Proficiency: Conduct high-quality, original research under faculty guidance, contributing to expanding knowledge and innovation in specialized areas such as chemical biology or bioinorganic chemistry.
  • Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to design and execute experiments, analyze data, and draw meaningful conclusions in chemical research.
  • Technical Skills: Develop technical proficiency in using state-of-the-art laboratory equipment and methodologies essential for advanced chemical research.
  • Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Engage in collaborative research opportunities, working effectively with peers and faculty from diverse scientific backgrounds.
  • Professional Development: Participate in professional development activities that enhance skills in scientific communication, grant writing, and career planning.
  • Intellectual Curiosity: Cultivate intellectual curiosity and a passion for lifelong learning, staying abreast of emerging trends and advancements in the field of chemistry.
  • Career Readiness: Prepare for successful careers in academia, industry, or research by acquiring the necessary knowledge, skills, and professional connections.
  • Ethical Responsibility: Understand and apply ethical principles in conducting research and in the dissemination of scientific knowledge.
  • Community Engagement: Become an active member of the scientific community, contributing to the advancement of chemistry and biochemistry through research, collaboration, and outreach activities.
  • Comprehensive Assessment: Successfully complete rigorous coursework and comprehensive examinations, demonstrating mastery of the field and readiness for independent research.

Curriculum

MS in Chemistry Program Overview

Our M.S. program offers two distinct tracks: non-thesis and thesis, allowing students to customize their educational journey. The thesis track places a strong emphasis on research, with students engaging in two research experiences, guided by a mentoring committee. In addition to recommended coursework, students culminate their studies by completing and defending a thesis.

Alternatively, the non-thesis track focuses on advanced coursework, empowering students to expand their knowledge through a minimum of 30 credits of graduate courses and the opportunity to deliver a public seminar, showcasing their expertise. Whether driven by research or coursework, our M.S. program provides a comprehensive and enriching experience in the field of Chemistry.

Required Courses for the MS Program

Courses Credits
CHEM 513 Scientific Communications I
CHEM 515 Scientific Communications II
CHEM 516 Research Experience I (Thesis track only)
CHEM 518 Research Experience II (Thesis track only)
CHEM 542 Advanced Data Analysis and Statistics
CHEM 573 Ethics I
CHEM 575 Ethics II
CHEM 576 Ethics III
CHEM 588 Research in Progress Seminar (Thesis track only)
CHEM 691 Departmental Seminar
Graduate-level chemistry courses		 1 cr.
1 cr.
1-6 cr.
1-6 cr.
2 cr.
1 cr.
1 cr.
1 cr.
0-1cr.
0 cr.
12+ cr.

 

Ph.D. in Chemistry Overview

This innovative graduate program is structured around variable credits, commencing with two research experiences. As students progress, they actively engage in dissertation research, complemented by fundamental and specialized courses determined by their committees, and culminate their studies by crafting and defending original research proposals. Emphasizing the importance of effective communication and pedagogical skills, all Ph.D. candidates are required to complete a minimum of two semesters of teaching experience. Ultimately, the program concludes with a successful dissertation defense, marking a significant milestone in students' scientific journey.

Required Courses for the Ph.D. Program

REQUIRED Credits
CHEM 511 Foundations in Chemistry
CHEM 513 Scientific Communications I
CHEM 515 Scientific Communications II
CHEM 516 Research Experience I
CHEM 517 Scientific Communications III
CHEM 518 Research Experience II
CHEM 542 Advanced Data Analysis and Statistics
CHEM 573 Ethics I
CHEM 575 Ethics II
CHEM 576 Ethics III
CHEM 588 Research in Progress Seminar
CHEM 691 Departmental Seminar
CHEM 695 Original Research Proposal		 1-6 cr.
1 cr.
1 cr.
1-6 cr.
1 cr.
1-6 cr.
2 cr.
1 cr.
1 cr.
1 cr.
0-1 cr.
0 cr.
0 cr.
Chemistry Electives (FOUR REQUIRED) Credits

CHEM 503 Advanced Organic Chemistry
CHEM 505 Environmental Chemistry
CHEM 506 Quantum Chemistry
CHEM 507 Thermodynamics
CHEM 508 Biomolecular Structure & Function
CHEM 519 Advanced Biochemistry I
CHEM 527 Biophys. & Biochem. Characterization of Macromolecules
CHEM 528 Polymer Science
CHEM 529 Enzyme Kinetics and Mechanisms
CHEM 536 Advanced Biochemistry II
CHEM 541 Structural Proteomics
CHEM 544 Inorganic Chemistry II
CHEM 547 Reaction Mechanisms
CHEM 549 Single Crystal X-Ray Crystallography
CHEM 565 Advanced Instrumental Analysis
CHEM 566 Mass Spectrometry Instrumental Analysis
CHEM 567 Statistical Thermodynamics
CHEM 598 Special Topics

 3 cr.
3 cr.
3 cr.
3 cr.
3 cr.
3 cr.
3 cr.
3 cr.
3 cr.
3 cr.
3 cr.
3 cr.
3 cr.
3 cr.
3 cr.
3 cr.
3 cr.
3 cr.