Master of Science in Chemistry

Prepare for a career in research or advanced graduate studies with the Master of Science in Chemistry in the College of Science and Technology at Temple. This master's degree is interdisciplinary and flexible, designed to develop your expertise in one of five chemical disciplines. With the option to take classes full or part time, you can earn your degree while still working professionally. You can pursue either a thesis track or program coursework, and both tracks emphasize significant investigation into the chemical sciences. Work toward the Chemistry PhD, or prepare to lead research in biotechnology, environmental science, forensic science, healthcare and more.

You’ll study and perform original and collaborative research in one of the following specific areas of specialization.

  • analytical chemistry
  • biochemistry
  • inorganic chemistry
  • organic chemistry
  • physical chemistry

Though some classes vary between the coursework and thesis tracks, all help you form a deeper understanding of specific areas of study, including environmental chemistry, materials and polymers, medicinal chemistry, nanoscience, photonics and surface science.

Some of the courses in this degree program focus on

  • the key chemical and physical properties of nanomaterials;
  • the principles and applications of important physical and spectroscopic methods;
  • organic structure and organic reaction mechanisms; and
  • quantum mechanics and its application to chemical systems.

Faculty members are involved in cutting-edge research into areas such as novel biological mechanisms; methods to study macromolecules; and ultra-intense laser fields. Research is performed in Temple’s state-of-the-art centers and facilities, including

Learn more about Chemistry research and facilities

Coursework versus Thesis

Deciding between the coursework track and the thesis track depends on your professional goals.

For students who want substantial lab experience, the thesis track involves more time performing research. The track culminates in a final, original research thesis paper approved by your Graduate Advisory Committee.

The coursework track is ideal for students who already have significant experience in research laboratories and who currently work in a chemical industry or related profession. This track includes a final examination, which must be passed before a student can successfully complete the degree. Final examinations depend on a student’s chosen area of specialization and focus on the core chemistry concepts of each specialization.

Both tracks require prior approval from the Department of Chemistry.

Chemistry student handles equipment in Temple's Borguet Lab.

Classes & Curriculum

Chemistry MS students have three years to earn a degree. Your curriculum depends on which track you choose. The thesis track is specifically designed for part-time students who seek advanced research experience in labs. It is completed over 30 credit hours within two years and is available on a part-time basis. It includes six formal lecture courses, a graduate research course and thesis research.

The culminating events for the thesis track are the final thesis research paper and its defense. The coursework track comprises 10 formal lecture courses and culminates in a final examination. 

Learn more about required courses for the Chemistry MS thesis and coursework tracks.

Though classes are tailored to your specific area of specialization, some of them include

  • Advanced Inorganic Chemistry,
  • Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience,
  • Data Analysis and Evidence, and
  • Nanomaterials Chemistry and Physics.

Related Graduate Degrees

Related Graduate Certificates

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, this Master of Science offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. These tuition costs apply to the 2024–2025 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $1,353.00 per credit
Out-of-state: $1,765.00 per credit

You can view the full Cost of Attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website.

ST-CHEM-MS

Additional Program Information