Degree Programs
Graduate students in the Ph.D. programs, and in some cases, the MS program, get support in the form of Associate Instructorships, Fellowships, or Research Assistantships. Aside from the dual degree programs, support is provided as long as the student remains in good standing.
Doctoral Degrees
Chemistry PhD
The program leading to obtaining a Doctoral Degree emphasizes the attainment of a high level of research expertise in a specialized area of chemistry, as well as the development of broad chemical knowledge, which is at least partly built through course work and by attending research seminars. By the time the degree is earned, the student should show promise of becoming a capable and independent research scientist. The major emphasis for the Ph.D. degree is on research, and this program is supported by unique professional development seminar and a course dedicated to introducing research. The department also supports a number of career development opportunities.
The Department of Chemistry offers a Ph.D. in chemistry that is internationally well-respected in both industry, academia, and other career paths. Students may choose to focus on one of the following six specialized areas of chemistry or to pursue research projects spanning multiple areas.
You may choose to specialize in these fields of study:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Chemical Biology
- Inorganic Chemistry
- Materials Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry
- Physical Chemistry
Ph.D. Minor in Sustainable Energy Science
The Sustainable Energy Science Program encourages interdisciplinary study of the physical science that under-pins energy use and supply. The Ph.D. minor program embraces a multidisciplinary approach drawing expertise from a number of Departments and Schools with an emphasis on the understanding of the scientific basis of sustainability and the implications of energy use.
Masters Degrees
MS to Ph.D. Bridge Program in Chemistry
The Chemistry Department is excited to partner with the American Chemical Society Bridge Program, which aims to strengthen the chemical sciences by increasing the number of underrepresented minority students pursuing and receiving advanced degrees in chemistry and chemical engineering. We provide an individualized course of study and research experience to bridge the gap between undergraduate and graduate study. This program provides close mentoring and advising along with professional development opportunities. The program is setup to provide seamless transition of Bridge Fellows into our Ph.D. program. Interested applicants must apply directly to the ACS Program (https://www.acs.org/content/acs/en/education/students/graduate/bridge-project/about-bridge-program.html) but they are also encouraged to reach out to the Chemistry Graduate Program Coordinator as well for more information.
Dual Degree Program
MS Chemistry/MS Environmental Science
This dual master’s program is a 51-credit hour, two-year program that gives the student more depth and breadth than is possible in a single degree. The student must complete a minimum of 21 credit hours in each of the degree programs. M.S. in Chemistry and M.S.E.S. degrees are awarded concurrently after the student has completed the requirements for both degrees.