Graduate Program
Program Overview
The Department offers Ph.D. and M.A. degree programs in Biochemistry, Analytical, Inorganic, Organic, and Physical Chemistry. A Chemical Physics program is offered jointly with the Physics Department and joint programs with the Schools of Business Administration and Public Administration are available. The Chemistry Department is at the forefront of an interdisciplinary Photonics Program. The Department also offers the Professional Science Master's Program.
Research is the central focus of the Ph.D. program. Course requirements are designed to enhance the research capabilities of the candidate. All Ph.D. candidates are required to take a minimum of three (3) courses in their major area of study and at least three (3) elective courses related to their research topic. For example, a student whose major area of study is organic chemistry would be expected to take at least three graduate courses in Organic Chemistry topics and three others which might include biochemistry, physical chemistry, as required by the details of the research in which (s)he was engage. A student must pass six cumulative examinations (one is given every 5-6 weeks), with a minimum of four passes in the student's major area. Upon completion of the cumulative exams that student must defend an original research proposal before their Ph.D. committee. Students give two seminars during the course of their Ph.D. studies, the last one of which is (traditionally) on their research and the other on a topic chosen in consultation with their research advisor. One semester of teaching is required. Students are expected to complete the Ph.D. program in about four years.
Requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
- Admission Requirements and Deadlines
- Program Requirements
- Contacts
- About the Program
- Financing Opportunities
- General Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree
- Program Goals
- Course Descriptions
Requirements for the degree of Master of Arts (M.A.)
- Admission Requirements and Deadlines
- Program Requirements
- Contacts
- About the Program
- Financing Opportunities
- Program Goals
- Course Descriptions
M.A. Joint Programs with Other Schools
The Department of Chemistry also offers, jointly with the School of Business Administration, programs leading to an M.B.A./Chemistry degree. The School of Business should be contacted concerning this program.
Thesis Option
All M.A. students must take two courses in their major and two others in related fields. Nine semester hours of research are also required. Students give one seminar. Most students complete the M.A. program in two years.
Non Thesis Option
Students with extensive professional experience may enroll for a non-thesis M.A. degree. The requirements of this program are as outlined above for the M.A. degree expect that research is replaced by three additional courses and a written comprehensive examination.
Core Doctoral Research Areas
- Analytical Chemistry
- Biological Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry
- Physical Chemistry
- Theoretical Chemistry