chemistry phd online

PhD Program

Professor Wender discusses chemistry with his graduate students.

Doctoral study in chemistry at Stanford University prepares students for research and teaching careers with diverse emphases in basic, life, medical, physical, energy, materials, and environmental sciences.

The Department of Chemistry offers opportunities for graduate study spanning contemporary subfields, including theoretical, organic, inorganic, physical, biophysical and biomedical chemistry and more. Much of the research defies easy classification along traditional divisions; cross-disciplinary collaborations with Stanford's many vibrant research departments and institutes is among factors distinguishing this world-class graduate program.

The Department of Chemistry is committed to providing academic advising in support of graduate student scholarly and professional development.  This advising relationship entails collaborative and sustained engagement with mutual respect by both the adviser and advisee.

• The adviser is expected to meet at least monthly with the graduate student to discuss on-going research.
• There should be a yearly independent development plan (IDP) meeting between the graduate student and adviser. Topics include research progress, expectations for completion of PhD, areas for both the student and adviser to improve in their joint research effort.
• A research adviser should provide timely feedback on manuscripts and thesis chapters.
• Graduate students are active contributors to the advising relationship, proactively seeking academic and professional guidance and taking responsibility for informing themselves of policies and degree requirements for their graduate program.
• If there is a significant issue concerning the graduate student’s progress in research, the adviser must communicate this to the student and to the Graduate Studies Committee in writing.  This feedback should include the issues, what needs to be done to overcome these issues and by when.

Academic advising by Stanford faculty is a critical component of all graduate students' education and additional resources can be found in the  Policies and Best Practices for Advising Relationships at Stanford  and the  Guidelines for Faculty-Student Advising at Stanford .

Learn more about the program through the links below, and by exploring the research interests of the  Chemistry Faculty  and  Courtesy Faculty .

Find A Degree

The 10 Best Doctor of Chemistry (D.Chem.) Degree Programs

Phd program rankings.

• Fully Funded PhDs in Education
• Doctor of Nursing Education
• Ph.D.: No Application Fees
• No-GRE Online Ph.D. in Psychology
• No-GRE Online Ph.D. Programs
• Fast Online Doctoral (Ph.D. and Ed.D.)
• The Most Affordable Online DBA
• Doctorate in Public Policy/Administration
• Doctor of ABA
• Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
• Doctorate in Marketing
• ALL Ph.D. Degree Program Rankings

Career Guides

• Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
• Aerospace Engineering
• Behavioral Health (D.B.H.)
• Chemical Engineering (PhD CE)
• Chemistry (D.Chem.)
• Clinical Nutrition (D.C.N.)
• Speech-Language Pathology (CScD)
• Criminology (D.Crim.)
• Economics (DEc)
• Health Science (D.H.S./D.H.Sci)
• Library Science (D.L.S.)
• Molecular Biology (Phd Mol Biol)
• Occupational Safety and Health (D.O.S.H.)
• Physics (Ph.D. Physics)
• ALL PhD Career Guides

Valuable Resources

• Best Laptops for Ph.D. Students
• Gift Ideas for Ph.D. Students
• Burnout & Chronic Stress
• The Key to Free Grad School
• Ph.D. Guide for International and Domestic Students
• Habits Of Highly Effective Leaders
• Online Doctorate Reputation
• Journals for Ph.D. Students
• Earning a PhD
• Write a Perfect Essay Like a PhD
• Master’s Degree As a Bridge To Ph.D.
• Self-Funding Your PhD
• Importance of Accreditation
• Online Ph.D. Support Groups
• Getting Accepted to an Online Ph.D.
• Common Fears of Ph.D. Students
• Habits of Successful People
• US Doctoral Degrees
• ALL VALUABLE RESOURCES

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why earn a Doctorate Degree?
• What are the Ph.D. Admission Requirements?
• How Much Does a Ph.D. Cost?
• How many years will it take for me to achieve my doctorate degree online?
• Do online doctorate degree programs require campus visits?
• Ph.D. vs. Doctorate
• ALL FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
• Highest-Paying Doctoral Degrees
• Famous Ph.D. Theses In History
• Struggles Only a Ph.D. Student Would Understand
• Ph.D. Requiring Residencies
• The World’s Richest Doctors
• Academic Conferences
• Most Popular PhD Degrees
• ALL Ph.D. Highlights

Doctor of Chemistry (D.Chem.) Degree Programs provide advanced-level education in Chemistry for students wishing to pursue careers as research scientists, professors, and/or industry professionals.

Students enrolled in D.Chem. programs explore research topics such as green chemistry, advanced biochemistry, and physical chemistry through advanced lab techniques and case studies.

The challenging path to earning a Doctorate of Chemistry degree demands hours of laboratory work and classroom lectures–and all these render distance learning unfeasible. The traditional educational setup ensures quality education for future research scientists.

If the fees related to accommodation and living expenses make you rethink pursuing this career, worry not because almost all institutions offer scholarships to worthy applicants.

The Doctor of Chemistry (D. Chem) is a rare title awarded by some universities. The most popular degree is “Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry (Ph.D. Chem.)”. The academic degree “Doctor of Science in Chemistry (D.Sci. Chem.)” is also another equivalent title.

10 Best Doctor of Chemistry (D.Chem.) Degree Programs

University of oregon.

DOCTORAL PROGRAM IN CHEMISTRY

School Highlights:

The University of Oregon allows Doctor of Chemistry students to engage in research, not just in chemistry but across a diverse breadth of disciplines.

The doctoral program encourages collaboration with researchers from other fields that’s why it offers various interdepartmental opportunities to work on.

Choose from a selection of concentrations that outline the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry’s commitment to the discipline. Throughout your program, you’ll be exposed to research rotations, teaching opportunities, and lab work.  Chemistry tutors can provide personalized guidance and support to help you excel in your studies and achieve your academic goals.

The University of Oregon maintains a state-of-the-art science complex with high-tech laboratory equipment, which are available to doctoral students and their independent pursuits. The entire school provides a collaborative and supportive atmosphere that nurtures skills in leadership and innovation.

Additionally, the curriculum offers internships to expose its Ph.D. students in different industries environments and private sectors. Graduates go on to pursue successful careers in various institutions including government agencies, research facilities, and academic institutions. 

Concentration Options:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology and Biophysical Chemistry
• Organic-Inorganic Chemistry
• Physical Chemistry

Campus Location: Eugene, OR

Accreditation:

• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities 8060 165th Avenue NE, Suite 200 Redmond, Washington 98052 www.nwccu.org, (205) 525-9848

Did You Know? The University of Oregon is situated in Eugene, Oregon, which is surrounded by a view of the mountains and the coast. This allows the students to participate in different outdoor programs like biking, adventure trips, and river rafting. You’ll also get the chance to join environmental activities like trail restorations and clean-ups. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF OREGON’S DOCTORAL PROGRAM IN CHEMISTRY

MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY

CHEMISTRY, PH.D.

School Highlights: Michigan State University houses a well-funded Department of Chemistry that offers one of the most dynamic Chemistry Ph.D. programs in the country.

The curriculum includes a wide range of topics in Chemistry, imparting foundational knowledge while introducing new scientific concepts and research applications.

You’ll be dealing with courses in analytical, organic, and physical chemistry. Plus, work on interdisciplinary topics such as spectroscopy, polymers, and material science. 

The Chemistry Building is home to an incredibly impressive array of research equipment and laboratories, such as the Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory and the Shard Laser Facility. The university grants over $9 million for research funding which makes this program even more attractive.

Financial opportunities at MSU are also abundant, offering different grants, scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships. Doctoral students work closely with their expert faculty members and produce outstanding research findings that are often printed in major scientific publications.

• Analytical Chemistry
• Biological Chemistry
• Chemical Physics
• Inorganic Chemistry
• Nuclear Chemistry
• Organic Chemistry
• Theoretical and Computational Chemistry

Campus Location: East Lansing, MI

• Higher Learning Commission 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500 Chicago, Illinois 60604 www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440

Did You Know? Michigan State University has garnered a lot of recognition since its establishment in 1855. Throughout the years, the university has perfected its graduate programs which have landed on top of different academic rankings. MSU currently ranks number one for graduate programs in Nuclear Physics, Secondary Education, and Rehabilitation Counseling according to the U.S. News and World Report. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY’S CHEMISTRY, PH.D.

UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON

At the University of Houston, students taking up a doctoral degree in chemistry will get the chance to explore different areas of chemistry while improving their research and analytical skills.

Be mentored by competent and internationally recognized faculty members who encourage interdisciplinary research and collaboration. You’ll also get the chance to assist them during intensive research projects, which offer an astoundingly rich academic experience.

Located in a hub for scientific and entrepreneurial opportunities, the campus provides opportunities to connect to global corporations and national laboratories throughout Houston.

During admission, students must choose a division that best aligns with their academic standing and career goals. Division options include Organic, Inorganic, and Physical Chemistry. Each division comprises 18 credit hours but differs in core courses and electives.

Additionally, you’ll be required to participate in seminars and finish a Ph.D. dissertation to earn your degree. After graduation, you’ll be qualified to hold high-level positions of employment in government and industry labs and even pursue a teaching career in prestigious universities.

Coursework Sample:

• Thermodynamics and Kinetics
• Physical Inorganic Chemistry
• Quantum Chemistry
• Molecular Spectroscopy
• Organometallic Chemistry

Campus Location: Houston, TX

• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Did You Know? The University of Houston offers different on-campus facilities to make your student life more interesting. If you’re into sports, the Fertitta Center and TDECU Stadium are great venues to watch a match and support the Houston Cougars. Aside from a selection of restaurants, enjoy a stroll in the Lynn Eusan Park or enrich your creative side in the Blaffer Art Museum. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON’S CHEMISTRY, PH.D.

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY

CHEMISTRY PH.D. PROGRAM

School Highlights: The Chemistry Ph.D. program at UC Berkeley emphasizes on improving its enrollees’ research skills, driving them to explore creative and innovative means. The curriculum comprises of minimal course requirements since the program is geared towards research and independent study.

You’ll have three concentration options:

• Physical Chemistry,
• Chemical Biology,
• and Synthetic Chemistry.

Although each one has a specific set of degree requirements, you’ll be able to create your own innovative and far-reaching chemistry projects. For example, those in the Physical Chemistry concentration may explore areas in analytical, biochemical, and nuclear chemistry.

The independent research project is the most essential part of the entire degree, aside from the teaching component. The Department of Chemistry requires all doctoral students to assist in an instructional program during the first three years of their residency. A

dditionally, stay updated with the latest research on chemistry and other areas in the scientific community by attending weekly seminars. You may also join small group discussions that encourage peer review and collaboration, The cumulative experiences at Berkeley are invaluable and will surely prepare you for high-level employment in the industry.

• Quantum Mechanics
• Interactions of Radiation with Matter
• Statistical Mechanics
• Group Theory

Campus Location: Berkeley, CA

• Western Association of Schools and Colleges 533 Airport Boulevard, Suite 200 Burlingame, CA 94010 www.acswasc.org, (650) 696-1060

Did You Know? University Of California, Berkeley ensures that its students receive the best career options by providing different career services. Its Career Center offers different events and workshops to guide graduating individuals towards the professional world. Some activities include Career Fairs, Coaching, and Information Sessions. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY’S CHEMISTRY PH.D. PROGRAM

UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI

DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN CHEMISTRY

The University of Mississippi’s Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers some of the most sought-after programs in the field, including the Doctor of Philosophy Program in Chemistry. This 54-credit degree comprises of courses from the available concentrations including:

• Biochemistry,
• and Physical Chemistry.

It provides an in-depth learning experience and is designed to enhance your understanding of all of the traditional areas of the profession. To graduate, you’ll need to take four cumulative examinations, an oral examination, and a dissertation presentation and defense. 

The University of Mississippi has strong ties to national agencies and labs such as NASA, the American Chemical Society, and the National Institute of Justice. Students often complete research projects in collaboration with these industries and expand their network in the process.

The program is perfect for Chemists seeking a career in education, working as an instructor or school labs, or government agencies that handle research and development. You may also pursue a career in the industrial industry and specialize in different chemistry vocations.

• Advanced Instrumental Analysis
• Physical Biochemistry 
• Advanced Organic Chemistry
• Chemical Applications of Group Theory
• Chemical Thermodynamics

Campus Location: Oxford, MS

Did You Know? The University of Mississippi is part of the R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity list, which comprises of research universities classified through the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. Being part of this tier means that the institution produces many research resources and conducts the most research activities. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI’S DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN CHEMISTRY

FLORIDA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

PH.D. IN CHEMISTRY

School Highlights: The Florida Institute of Technology prides itself on an incredibly diverse chemistry education environment. The Chemistry Ph.D. program is a combination of one-on-one mentorship, internships, and assistantships to maximize your learning potential.

Learn from some of the country’s most seasoned instructors and gain insights into different fields like Biotechnology, Disease Pathology, and Nanomaterials. Plus, work with other Chemists and expand your network through collaborative research projects and fieldwork.

Past projects have spanned a vast array of topics, such as degenerative disease approaches, DNA analysis, and chromosome replication. 

Another reason to choose Floride Tech is its modern research facilities and laboratories. The F.W. Olin Physical Sciences Center is a 70,000 square foot research center that comprises different facilities that deal with research, microscopy, and photochemistry.

Additionally, Florida Tech has strong ties with the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute and Kennedy Space Center, which provides incredible opportunities for doctoral students.

Graduates will enter the industry with the needed skills and expertise to effect massive change in different industries including manufacturing, health, and alternative energy. 

• Interpretation of Chemical Spectra
• Organic Synthesis
• Natural Products

Campus Location: Melbourne, FL

Did You Know? Florida Institute of Technology prides itself in having a 92% employment rate after graduation. This shows the school produces capable graduates who are qualified to take on different roles and positions. Plus, most of the graduates receive a good paycheck, with some earning an average of $56,000 years after graduation.

LEARN MORE ABOUT FLORIDA TECH’S PH.D. IN CHEMISTRY

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY

PH.D. DEGREE IN CHEMISTRY

School Highlights: The Chemistry Ph. D. degree program at Johns Hopkins University aims to align with its student’s academic backgrounds and professional goals. That’s why the program is comprised of different courses that will give you a broad understanding of different scientific concepts and research studies.

With this program, you’ll be hitting two birds with one stone as It allows you to earn both a master’s and Ph.D. in one curriculum. On top of the core courses, you’ll also be able to participate in a series of departmental seminars to further your technical expertise. 

Towards the end of your program, you’ll also be required to do a thesis dissertation that aims to challenge you to think critically and independently. As a future frontrunner in the discipline, get the needed hands-on experience participating in a one-year teaching assistantship.

Additionally, the Department of Chemistry has different student organizations to help you expand your network and improve your extra-curricular experience. Ultimately, John Hopkins is a known institution for providing high-caliber graduates, so you can definitely look forward to a great career ahead of you!

• Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds
• Spectroscopy
• Chemical Biology

Campus Location: Baltimore, MD

• Middle States Commission on Higher Education 3624 Market Street, Suite 2 West Philadelphia, PA 19104 www.msche.org, (267) 284-5000

Did You Know? John Hopkins University’s Krieger School of Arts and Sciences offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with over 60 majors and minors. The majority of its students participate in research, contributing to over 50 laboratories and institutes. Plus it has been receiving one of the largest research funding budgets for over four decades.  

LEARN MORE ABOUT JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY’S PH.D. DEGREE IN CHEMISTRY

STANFORD UNIVERSITY

School Highlights:  Stanford University is a well-respected academic institution offering a variety of programs ranging from undergraduate to doctorate ones. Its Ph.D. program in Chemistry is one to look out for. Stanford’s curriculum dives deep, going beyond the basic topics in chemistry.

You’ll be covering sub-disciplines like human health, biotechnology, and catalysis. You can choose from different majors including:

• chemical physics,
• inorganic chemistry,
• and biophysical chemistry.

Aside from the prescribed graduate-level courses, you may take units from related fields such as chemical engineering and materials science. 

You’ll also be exposed to a lot of data gathering and research work through a dissertation. Get the chance to work on testing new theories and developing new models on a molecular level. You’ll be mentored by top-notch instructors in the industry.

What’s more, you’ll receive academic advising so you’ll be properly guided during your research studies and dissertation. Get the guidance you need toward a successful career path in Chemistry. By developing a better understanding of the industry, you may pursue positions in both private and public institutions.

Coursework Sample: Stanford, CA

• Advanced Physical Chemistry
• Research and Special Advanced Work
• Biophysical Chemistry
• Chemical Principles
• Bio-inorganic Chemistry

Campus Location:  

• Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Did You Know? Stanford University’s Department of Chemistry was one of the first few departments opened during its establishment in 1891. The department has since then been offering quality programs and has recently opened an interdisciplinary institute where Chemistry majors can collaborate with Engineering and Medical students. Chem-H hopes to spark advancement through research and forward-thinking.

LEARN MORE ABOUT STANDFORD UNIVERSITY’S  PH.D. PROGRAM IN CHEMISTRY

UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

Students attending the University of Akron’s Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry degree will be exposed to interdisciplinary education, covering different approaches in Chemistry and even touching topics in Biology and Physics. You’ll also get the chance to further improve your research and communication skills, which are vital in succeeding in the industry.

Learn from tenured faculty and conduct experiments in high-quality facilities such as the Mass Spectrometry Center and the Center for Laster & Optical Spectroscopy. Learn from excellent instructors and gain access to a selection of academic resources.

In terms of admissions, UA accepts students with a Master’s in Chemistry or any related field. On top of that, you’ll also need to submit recommendation letters and a statement of purpose to be admitted successfully. Students with good academic standing may have the chance to receive financial assistance.

The school also offers free tuition by participating in teaching or research assistantships for the academic year and summer. Well-seasoned graduates of Akron refine their skills as researchers, laboratory managers, and educators in chemistry.

• Thermodynamics & Statistical Thermodynamics
• X-Ray Crystallography
• Enzymatic Reactions

Campus Location: Akron, OH

• Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association

Did You Know? The University of Akron got its name from the hilltop area which means the “highest point”. This name fits the university since it offers high-quality academic programs which attract over 10,000 enrollees every year. Some popular programs include Nursing, Marketing Management, and Psychology.  

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON’S PH.D. IN CHEMISTRY.

MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

School Highlights:  The Massachusetts Institute of Technology aims to produce outstanding leaders from different fields like science, engineering, and mathematics. In the same manner, MIT’s Chemistry Department aims to produce excellent graduates that can positively contribute to the industry.

The Ph.D. program offers both flexibility by letting you choose courses that you’re interested to take, and hands-on experience through a two-semester teaching assistant opportunity. In your first year, you’ll be given the chance to handle laboratory classes. 

Aside from taking graduate-level courses, you’ll also be taking oral and written examinations, as well as working on postdoctoral research. Throughout your program, you’ll be guided by a thesis adviser to help you progress with your research. Additionally, the program involves desk rotations so you can connect with senior Ph.D. students while working on your coursework.

The department values networking and embracing advocacies. That’s why it’s home to several student organizations such as Women+ in Chemistry and Chemistry Alliance for Diversity and inclusion.   

• Synthetic Organic Chemistry
• Principles of Organometallic Chemistry
• Laboratory Chemistry
• Heterocyclic Chemistry
• Introductory Quantum Mechanics

Campus Location:  Cambridge, MA

• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) 

Did You Know? Massachusetts Institute of Technology was incorporated in 1861 and has been following a Latin motto, “mens et manus” which translates to “mind and hand”. This is a reflection of MIT’s educational style that involves practical applications, going beyond theoretical knowledge.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY’S PH.D. IN CHEMISTRY.

What does a Chemist do?

A chemist is a scientist who studies the properties of matter at a molecular level. They observe and measure chemical reactions of compounds through experiments in laboratories.

Chemists also engage in fieldwork to collect data samples to be analyzed using sophisticated scientific instruments. In the modern world, chemists work in teams with scientists and professionals from other disciplines. 

Advanced knowledge of chemistry may benefit different industries like manufacturing, waste management, and food production. Certain advancements in the health sector, like understanding hormones and the production of different medical drugs, may be attributed to the research work of chemists.

Chemists also work with engineers to develop new construction additives, materials testing and even help in environmental initiatives.

It is also important to note that chemists and chemical engineers are different. While both professions deal with chemicals, the latter focuses more on the application of principles of math and physics to produce new material that may benefit different industries, while chemists focus more on the organic, inorganic, and analytical aspects of the discipline. Additionally, chemists emphasize research and testing, while chemical engineers deal with design and production. 

What sort of accreditation should I look for in a school?

If you’re looking for a chemistry program, one of the things that you should be looking at is its accreditation. Accreditation shows if the institution has met the academic standards set by the accrediting body. While these standards may differ, it’s a good gauge of the quality of education that the school provides.

In the United States, some accrediting agencies include the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, and the Higher Learning Commission. 

Chemistry doctorate programs are usually accredited by the American Chemical Society (ACS) while the Council of Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) may also provide accreditation to interdisciplinary programs.

Ultimately, accreditation is just one of the many factors that you should consider when choosing an academic institution. It’s also important to check on the school’s facilities, learning setup, and employment rate. 

How do I earn my D.Chem. Degree?

One of the major requisites for earning a doctorate in Chemistry is a master’s degree in the scientific field. Taking up a bachelor’s will create a solid foundation for your field, while a master’s will expose you to different complex processes and higher learning that may be applied to your Ph.D. pursuit.

Upon application, you may also need to undergo different examinations to assess your scientific knowledge and skills.

The graduate school committee might test you further, like requiring you to conduct sample research, before considering you for admission. Other documentation may include your statement of intent, recommendation letters, and official scores from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and TOEFL/IELTS if you are a non-native English speaker.

Graduate students attending doctorate programs in Chemistry revolve around classroom lectures, laboratory activities, and even fieldwork. Most programs offer specializations to focus more on a subfield and learn specific skillsets. You can choose from a selection of specializations including:

• Thermochemistry
• Medicinal Chemistry

Enrollees may also need to take prerequisite subjects in the coursework. In many cases, a graduate student may assist professors in their research work or teach in lower-level classes to further expose them to the field.

Like many Ph.D. programs, the dissertation is also necessary to complete the doctoral program. Most programs focus on independent research to encourage independent thinking, while some programs push for team research to enhance collaboration skills.

Earning a Chemistry doctorate degree program may take three years to finish, eight years at most. Bachelor’s degree holders may pursue a straight D.Chem. program to earn both a master’s and doctorate degree for a shorter period of time. 

What type of degree do I need to pursue a teaching career in Chemistry?

Graduating with a Ph.D., D.Sci., or D.Chem degree may give you a huge advantage, especially when pursuing a teaching position. Some institutions require a doctoral degree, while some schools place Ph.D. holders on courses that deal with more complex theories and higher learning.

Pursuing higher education is also beneficial, especially when you’re looking into advancing in your teaching career. This also helps in tenure security and may give you an advantage when negotiating your salary. To put it simply, a doctoral degree may put you in a better position where you can help mold young learners while enjoying more work benefits.

Additionally, your doctoral research may help jumpstart your pathway to the academe since this may expose you to different academic conferences wherein you may build ties with academic leaders that may take interest in your capabilities for academic employment.

Why take a bridge program before pursuing a doctoral degree?

Undergraduate students in the field of Chemistry who are looking into pursuing higher education may take advantage of a bridge program. This program introduces a mix of foundational and graduate courses and usually takes a year to finish. With this, students may acquire fundamental knowledge and relevant skills to successfully earn graduate degrees like a Ph.D. or D.Chem.

Transitional programs also help students get the needed mentorship to properly assess their academic pathway. Here, you’ll get a glimpse of what’s in store for you if you pursue graduate studies.

Aside from theoretical courses, you may also be exposed to a lot of lab work and research to prepare you for dissertation and doctoral projects. You can shop now at Certified Scale for lab instruments like Sartorius scales.

What kind of career and salary can I expect with my D.Chem. Degree?

Chemists with doctorate-level degrees may work either in the academic or industrial setting, across different job positions. In the academic setting, D.Chem. holders may work as instructors and researchers. Professors and lab instructors may earn an average of  $80,670 per year .

Chemists working in manufacturing and production companies may earn anywhere from $78,000 to $107,000 annually, while those involved in research agencies and private laboratories may take home $116,000 yearly. D.Chem graduates may also pursue a career in health, biochemistry, and forensic chemistry. 

Do I need a license to be a Chemist?

A licensure exam is not required in the United States for those who want to work as chemists or chemical technicians. Chemists may use their diplomas as permits when procuring and transporting chemicals for experimental purposes. With this, chemists may still work on a research project or developmental work.

Furthermore, several US government agencies like the  Food and Drug Authority (FDA)  and the  Department of Homeland Security (DHS)  oversee the rules in transporting hazardous chemicals, keeping a close eye on those conducting research and handling chemicals.

However, chemists may apply for the certification program under the National Certification Commission in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering to be duly recognized by the agency while expanding their network of co-practitioners.

You may register as a Certifees-in-Training (CIT) for undergrad chemists, while graduate students may opt to become Annual Enrollees (AE).  

What are some of the school services in store for doctoral degree students?

Most university’s PhD chemistry programs offer a range of student services that cater to both undergraduate and graduate students. Most institutions have academic support services through coaching or advising to fully guide you in your career path. Graduate students may benefit from this the most since they’ll need help in juggling both your professional work and academic pursuit.

Student organizations and social events are almost always present in schools as this helps in expanding your connections and improves your interpersonal skills. Being subjected to the stress of your job and schoolwork, you may turn to school counselors and mental health programs to improve your mental state. 

Lastly, most academic institutions offer scholarship grants to applicants with good academic standing. Some schools offering grants include the University of Akron  in Akron, OH; the  University of Oregon  in Eugene, OR; and  Michigan State University  in East Lansing MI. Other universities offer bridge programs to help maximize your learning potential.

The following schools bridge programs –  John Hopkins University  in Baltimore, MD; the  University of Houston  in Houston, TX;  University of California Berkeley  in Berkeley, CA; The  University of Mississippi  in Oxford, MS; and  Florida Institute of Technology  in Melbourne, FL.

Be the next Marie Curie or Alfred Nobel. Pursue a doctorate degree in Chemistry and be deployed to the frontline of this ambitiously experimental and solution-finding era of human civilization.

Is it hard to earn a Doctor of Chemistry (D.Chem.) Degree?

It depends on the individual. Generally, it is a very challenging degree to attain, requiring a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field. There may also be other requirements, such as research projects, dissertation requirements, additional coursework, internships, and specialized examinations. Earning a D.Chem. can take several years to complete.

The Bottom Line

Earning a Doctor of Chemistry graduate degree enables graduates the opportunity to participate in a graduate seminar and conduct independent research themselves, therefore providing awesome options for helping mankind in a wide variety of industries.

What are your career aspirations? With a D.Chem. degree, you can focus on physical chemistry, analytical chemistry, medicinal chemistry, organic chemistry, intensive research, and much more.

A chemistry degree graduate program is a great way to get that job promotion in research that you deserve.

Additional Information:

• The Best Doctor of Anesthesia Practice (Dr.AP) Degree Programs
• The Best Doctor of Applied Science (D.A.S.) Degree Programs: Salary and Information
• The Best Doctorate in Medicine (M.D.) Degree Programs: Salary and Information

Department of Chemistry

• PhD Requirements
• Pathways to Your Career
• Professional Societies
• Student Groups
• Chemistry-Biology Interface Program

Johns Hopkins University was the first American institution to emphasize graduate education and to establish a PhD program in chemistry. Founding Chair Ira Remsen initiated a tradition of excellence in research and education that has continued until this day. The Hopkins graduate program is designed for students who desire a PhD in chemistry while advancing scientific knowledge for humankind.

The graduate program provides students with the background and technical expertise required to be leaders in their field and to pursue independent research.

Graduate students’ advancement is marked by entrance exams, coursework, teaching, seminars, oral examinations, and an individual research project that culminates in a thesis dissertation. The thesis research project represents an opportunity for graduate students to make a mark on the world. Working in conjunction with a faculty member or team, individually tailored thesis projects enable students to think independently about cutting-edge research areas that are of critical importance. Thesis research is the most important step toward becoming a PhD scientist, and our program provides an outstanding base with a proven track record of success.

Graduate students make up the heart of the Chemistry Department, and the department strives to support students’ individual needs. Each student is carefully advised and classes are traditionally quite small. Multidisciplinary research and course offerings that increase scientific breadth and innovation are hallmarks of the program.  In addition to academic and technical development, our department also offers several outlets for professional and social development.

For more information, contact the Director of Graduate Studies. Dr. Art Bragg Office: Remsen 221 410-516-5616 [email protected]

• louisville.edu
• PeopleSoft HR
• PeopleSoft Campus Solutions
• PeopleSoft Financials
• Business Ops
• Cardinal Careers

• Undergraduate
• International
• Online Learning

Department of Chemistry

• A Letter From the Chair
• Mission Statement
• Our Facilities
• Department Administration
• Undergraduate Research
• Society of Undergraduate Chemistry Students (SUCS)
• Cooperative Internship in Chemistry
• PRIMES UTA Program in Chemistry
• Honors & Awards
• Program Guidelines
• Chemistry (PhD)
• Chemistry (MS) Thesis Option
• Chemistry (MS) Non-thesis Option
• Chemistry Graduate Students Association (CGSA)
• Application Material
• Financial Assistance
• Honors and Awards
• Graduate Student Seminar Schedule
• Faculty Seminar Schedule
• Derby Lecture Series
• Graduate Studies
• Undergraduate Studies
• Faculty Journal Covers
• George R. Pack Award
• Chemistry Graduate Students Association
• / Academics & Research
• / Graduate Studies
• / Chemistry (PhD)

Visit the online course catalog for more specific degree requirements

Ph.D. Requirements

Credit Hours A minimum total 30 semester hours with at least 15 semester hours in chemistry courses. An overall GPA of 3.0 must be maintained.

Courses Students must pass at least 6 graduate lecture courses from at least 3 of 6 divisions with a minimum grade of 'C' in any one course during the first 4 semesters (excluding summers). Up to 2 courses may be waived for students entering with a M.S. degree in chemistry (or a closely related field with consent of the Chemistry Director of Graduate Studies).

Mentor The research mentor should be selected during the first semester. Students are required to interview a minimum of 5 chemistry faculty, including members of at least 2 divisions.

Committee The student will select his/her Dissertation Committee in consultation with the research mentor during the first 4 semesters of study. The committee consists of the mentor, a chemistry faculty in the same division, a chemistry faculty in a different division, an additional chemistry faculty, and a faculty member from a different department.

Cumulative Exams Students must complete a series of written cumulative examinations designed to show in-depth knowledge in the chosen area of concentration. Cumulative exams begin in the second semester and are given the third Saturday of January, March, May, September, and November.

Literature Seminar Students must enroll in seminar (Chem 695) each of their first 4 semesters (excluding summers) and attend departmental seminars. Students must make a presentation based on a topic under active discussion in the recent literature during their second or third semester. The remaining seminar attendance requirement may be waived after all other Master's candidacy requirements have been achieved.

Research Proposal Students must develop, explain, and defend a research proposal prior to the beginning of the 7th semester (excluding summers). The proposal may include preliminary results from the student's research and describe possible future directions.

Publications It is expected that prior to the Research Seminar, at least one manuscript based on the student's research would have been submitted to a peer-reviewed journal. Before completion of the Ph.D. program, at least one published article and at least one additional manuscript submitted to peer-reviewed journals is expected.

Research Seminar A one-hour seminar on the student's dissertation research project is to be given before the end of the 8th semester (excluding summers). This seminar must be completed at least 9 months prior to graduation. The MS degree will be awarded upon successful completion of the research seminar.

Dissertation A written dissertation describing the research program is submitted a minimum of 14 days before the defense. The defense consists of a one-hour seminar followed by an oral examination with the Faculty Reading committee.

Ph.D. Milestones

First Year Coursework Attend Seminars Select a Mentor Begin Research Begin Cumulative Exams (2nd semester) Literature Seminar (early)

Second Year Continue/Finish Coursework Continue/Finish Cumulative Exams Literature Seminar (deadline 3rd semester) Attend Seminars Research Organize Dissertation Committee

Third Year Research Finish Cumulative Exams Research Proposal

Fourth Year Research Research Seminar* *M.S. degree awarded

Fifth Year Finish Research Write and defend Dissertation* *Ph.D. awarded

Attention! 2018 Nobel Laureate Dr. George P. Smith to speak at UofL May 4th and 5th. Apr 26, 2023

2023-2024 Dorothy Gibson Memorial Fellowship and Arno Spatola Endowment Fellowship Nominations are now being accepted Feb 17, 2023

2019 Nobel Laureate Dr. M. Stanley Whittingham to speak at UofL Mar 16, 2022

Dr. Frederick Luzzio receives College of Arts and Sciences 2022 Distinguished Faculty Award for Outstanding Scholarship, Research, and Creative Activity - Career Achievement Mar 01, 2022

Chemistry Building Room 138

University of Louisville

2320 South Brook Street

Louisville, Kentucky 40292

Office Hours

M-F 8:00am to 12:00pm       12:30pm to 4:00pm

tel (502) 852-6798

[email protected]

This PhD program in Chemistry is designed for students who have earned a bachelor’s or a master’s degree in chemistry or a related field who wish to develop as independent researchers by engaging in cutting-edge research while working closely with faculty who are renowned in their fields.

The program of study includes some course work, but the primary emphasis is on the completion of an original research project, its articulation in a well-written thesis, and its subsequent defense before the thesis (oral examination) committee. The PhD program is a full-time degree program that typically takes five years to complete. Financial support (teaching assistantships or research assistantships) is normally provided for students throughout their period of study if they are found to be making satisfactory progress toward their degree in accordance with departmental and university guidelines.

• Boston location ideally positioned in the heart of the Biotechnology Supercluster and Medical Hub
• Students eligible for financial support in the form of Teaching Assistantships (TAs) or Research Assistantships (RAs)
• Use-inspired research projects in materials, energy, and drug discovery are closely linked with industry via partnerships and collaboration
• Departmental research funding is greater than $16 million, across multiple disciplinary foci
• Home to the Barnett Institute of Biological and Chemical Analysis, a premier analytical chemistry institute, and the Northeastern University Center for Renewable Energy Technology
• Bachelor’s and Advanced-degree entry are possible

Our graduates pursue careers within academia and beyond.

• Paul scherrer Institute
• Merck Research Laboratories
• Bristol-Meyers Squibb
• BioAnalytix
• Lang Pharmaceutical Nutrition
• Empiroko Inc.
• Stanford University
• Corden Pharmaceuticals
• Warner-Babcock
• Los Alamos National Laboratory

Application Materials

Application.

• Application fee – US $100
• Unofficial transcripts for all institutions attended (Official transcripts required upon acceptance of admission offer)
• Personal statement
• Three letters of recommendation
• GRE General – recommended, but not required
• Proof of English Proficiency for all applicants

Deadline for completed applications: December 1

• Program Website

Request Information for PhD in Chemistry

Chemistry, PhD

Zanvyl krieger school of arts and sciences.

Johns Hopkins University was the first American institution to emphasize graduate education and to establish a PhD program in chemistry. Founding Chair Ira Remsen initiated a tradition of excellence in research and education that has continued until this day. The Hopkins graduate program is designed for students who desire a PhD in chemistry while advancing scientific knowledge for humankind.

The graduate program provides students with the background and technical expertise required to be leaders in their field and to pursue independent research.

Graduate students’ advancement is marked by entrance exams, coursework, teaching, seminars, oral examinations, and an individual research project that culminates in a thesis dissertation. The thesis research project represents an opportunity for graduate students to make a mark on the world. Working in conjunction with a faculty member or team, individually tailored thesis projects enable students to think independently about cutting-edge research areas that are of critical importance. Thesis research is the most important step toward becoming a PhD scientist, and our program provides an outstanding base with a proven track record of success.

Graduate students make up the heart of the Chemistry Department, and the department strives to support students’ individual needs. Each student is carefully advised and classes are traditionally quite small. Multidisciplinary research and course offerings that increase scientific breadth and innovation are hallmarks of the program.  In addition to academic and technical development, our department also offers several outlets for professional and social development.

Admission Requirements

Application materials include:

• Academic transcripts
• Three letters of recommendation
• Statement of Purpose
• The GRE General Test is required.  However, this requirement can be waived for individuals for whom personal circumstances make it difficult or impossible to access the GRE General Test at this present time.  If so, please let the Academic Affairs Administrator (information below) be aware of these circumstances, and the application will be given full consideration.
• The GRE Chemistry Subject is Test is recommended, but not required.
• The application fee is $75. However, fee waivers may be requested for applicants that have documentation showing they are a part of SACNAS, MARCC, oSTEM and many other organizations. To access the full list to see if you qualify, go to the  Krieger Graduate Admission and Enrollment  page.

Assistance with the application process is available. Candidates with questions about the application process, or requests for a GRE General Test waiver (or on other matters related to the application) should contact the Admissions Committee’s Academic Affairs Administrator ( [email protected] ).

There are no fixed requirements for admission. Undergraduate majors in chemistry, biology, earth sciences, mathematics, or physics may apply as well as all well-qualified individuals who will have received a BA degree before matriculation. A select number of applicants will be invited to visit campus to tour our facilities and interact with our faculty members and their lab members over a weekend in March.

For further information about graduate study in chemistry visit the Chemistry Department website . 

Program Requirements

Normally, the minimum course requirement for both the M.A. and the Ph.D. degrees is six one-semester graduate courses in chemistry and related sciences. Exceptionally well-prepared students may ask for a reduction of these requirements.

Requirements for the Ph.D. degree include a research dissertation worthy of publication, and a knowledge of chemistry and related material as demonstrated in an oral examination. Each student must teach for at least one year.

Below is a list of the core Chemistry courses for graduate level students.

CHEM-PHD - Chemistry (PhD)

Program overview.

Chemistry is about the nature of matter, how to make it, measure it, and model it. In that sense, chemistry really matters; it is essential to explaining the real world. It holds the key to making new drugs, creating new materials, and understanding and controlling material properties. It is no wonder that chemistry is called the “Central Science.” Traditionally, it is divided into subdisciplines, such as organic, inorganic, physical, biological, theoretical, and analytical. Still, these distinctions blur as it is increasingly appreciated how all science, let alone chemistry, is interconnected. 

A deeper understanding of chemistry enables students to participate in research and studies involving biotechnology, nanotechnology, catalysis, human health, materials, earth and environmental sciences, and more. Together, faculty, postdoctoral scholars, and graduate and undergraduate students actively work side by side to develop new probes of biological molecules, model protein folding and reactivity, manipulate carbon nanotubes, develop new oxidation and polymerization catalysts, and synthesize organic molecules to probe ion channels. The overarching theme of these pursuits is a focus at the atomic and molecular levels, whether this concerns probing the electronic structure and reactivity of molecules as small as dihydrogen or synthesizing large polymer assemblies. The ability to synthesize new molecules and materials and to modify existing biological structures allows the properties of complex systems to be analyzed and harnessed with massive benefit to both the scientific community and society at large.

Free Form Requisites

Process to candidacy.

Graduate students are eligible to become formal candidates for the PhD degree after taking the department placement examinations, satisfactory completion of most of the formal lecture course requirements, and satisfactory progress on a dissertation research project determined by passing a progress report with one’s thesis committee. There is no foreign language requirement for the PhD degree. Admission to candidacy for the PhD degree must be done before July of the second year of graduate registration.

Placement Examinations

Each new graduate student must take placement examinations upon entrance. These consist of three written examinations of two hours each in the fields of inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry and cover such material as ordinarily is given in a rigorous one-year undergraduate course in each of these subjects. Students concentrating in biophysical chemistry or chemical physics must take examinations in biophysical or chemical physics, physical chemistry, and organic or inorganic chemistry. Students concentrating in chemical biology must take biophysical, organic, and physical or inorganic chemistry examinations. All placement examinations are given the week before instruction begins in autumn quarter and must be taken at that time. Each new graduate student meets with a graduate study committee member to define a course program based on the results of the placement examinations.

General Requirements

After taking the departmental placement examinations, students select a research advisor by interviewing members of the Chemistry faculty. An Application to Start Research form is submitted to the Department as research begins under the advisor’s supervision. All students in good standing must start research by the end of February, during winter quarter of the first year of graduate registration.

Candidates for the PhD degree are required to participate continually in the department colloquium ( course Department Colloquium) and the division seminar of the major subject ( course Organic Chemistry Seminar,  course Inorganic Chemistry Seminar, or  course Physical Chemistry Seminar).

Candidates for advanced degrees must have a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 for all Chemistry lecture courses and all courses taken during graduate study. Required courses must be taken for a letter grade. Most coursework ends in the second year of studies, and students will then focus on full-time dissertation research.

Students may major in organic, chemical biology, physical, biophysical, chemical physics, or inorganic chemistry. All graduate students are required to take six graduate-level lecture courses (course numbers greater than 199) of at least three units each in chemistry or related disciplines (e.g., biochemistry, electrical engineering, mathematics, chemical engineering, chemical and systems biology, physics, materials science), to be selected in consultation with their research advisor and the Graduate Study Committee. All six courses must be taken for a letter grade. At least three of the six courses must be taken within the Chemistry Department. A minimum of four courses should be completed by the end of the first year.

Course Requirements for entering classes beginning with 2018-19

Course requirements for entering classes before 2018-19.

Requirements for students who entered Stanford before 2018-19: consult the  Bulletin  matching the year of matriculation (i.e., starting at) Stanford.

Continuous enrollment in  course Research in Chemistry is expected after the student has chosen a research supervisor.

Post-Candidacy

Before candidates may request the scheduling of the University Oral Examination, clearance must be obtained from the dissertation advisor, and an academic review meeting must be scheduled with the Student Services Manager for the Department of Chemistry.

During the period in which faculty members are reading a dissertation, candidates must be available for personal consultation until the dissertation has received final department approval.

• Future Students
• Parents/Families
• Alumni/Friends
• Current Students
• Faculty/Staff
• MyOHIO Student Center
• Visit Athens Campus
• Regional Campuses
• OHIO Online
• Faculty/Staff Directory

College of Arts and Sciences

• Awards & Accomplishments
• Communications
• Mission and Vision
• News and Events
• Teaching, Learning, and Assessment
• A&S Support Team
• Faculty Affairs
• Human Resources
• Promotion & Tenure
• Centers & Institutes
• Faculty Labs
• Undergraduate Research
• Environmental Majors
• Pre-Law Majors
• Pre-Med, Pre-Health Majors
• Find an Internship. Get a Job.
• Honors Programs & Pathways
• Undergraduate Research Opportunities
• Undergraduate Advising & Student Affairs
• Online Degrees & Certificates
• Ph.D. Programs
• Master's Degrees
• Certificates
• Graduate Forms
• Thesis & Dissertation
• Departments
• Alumni Awards
• Giving Opportunities
• Dean's Office
• Department Chairs & Contacts
• Faculty Directory
• Staff Directory
• Undergraduate Advising & Student Affairs Directory

Helpful Links

Navigate OHIO

Connect With Us

Ph.D. in Chemistry

• Financial Support (Teaching Assistantships)
• Graduate Courses & Resources
• Program Mission and Learning Objectives

Program code: PH3311

Program Overview

The department’s mission is to provide a quality education to graduate students while they pursue state-of-the-art research in chemistry. The objective of the graduate program is to educate and train students to become highly effective scientists by providing them with the interdisciplinary tools, research skills and ethical and service sensibilities needed to succeed in their future career. This includes offering a variety of rigorous graduate level courses, maintaining cutting-edge research programs within individual laboratories and compliance with the Code for Professional Ethical Conduct espoused by the American Chemical Society.

Candidates for a Ph. D. degree in Chemistry must demonstrate the ability to plan, execute, evaluate, and communicate original chemical research. The graduate program spans all five traditional disciplines of chemistry (Analytical, Biochemistry, Inorganic, Organic and Physical). Within these five areas the department boasts particular research strengths in chemometrics, forensic chemistry, mass spectrometry, medicinal chemistry, supramolecular chemistry, materials chemistry, nanoscience and nanomedicine, nucleic acid research, protein and glycoprotein engineering, and spectroscopy.

This is a full-time program. Normative time to completion is five academic years, in line with national average as reported by the American Chemical Society.

Career Opportunities

Graduates with a Ph.D. in chemistry typically pursue academic careers (typically following post-doctoral appointments) and R&D positions in chemical and pharmaceutical companies.

Graduation Requirements

• See Chemistry Graduate Requirements for details .

Brief Overview

The requirements for a Ph.D. in chemistry consist of a combination of coursework, seminars, research proposals, and original research. Each student will be required to pass three classes (12 credits) in three different chemistry divisions (organic, inorganic, physical, analytical and biochemistry), and pass two classes (8 credits) within their major area of research. A grade of B or better must be obtained in each course attempted. Courses are selected with the assistance of a faculty adviser. Ph.D. candidates must submit and orally defend a dissertation research proposal to their dissertation committee no later than the first semester of their third year of study.

Students select a research adviser at the end of their first semester of study after rotations in several laboratories. Intensive research generally begins in the spring of the first year. The Ph.D. program culminates in the preparation of a research dissertation and a final oral examination.

• A minimum of 90 semester hours in chemistry and approved electives.
• Attendance at a seminar course each semester.
• A qualifying exam must be passed for candidacy. This consists of a written research proposal and an oral defense of the proposal.
• A written dissertation describing the results of the student's research.
• Students must present their dissertation orally at a public meeting followed by an oral defense held before the student's dissertation committee.
• The average period of study is five years.

Graduation Requirements  

The following minimum requirements must be satisfied to graduate.

• Complete 90 semester hours in Chemistry and approved electives.
• Demonstrate breadth of knowledge competency by passing at a level of B or higher one 5000-level course in three of these five areas of chemistry: Analytical, Inorganic, Organic, Physical and Biochemistry. One of the three courses must be in the student’s major area, and the other two must be in the other areas. Breadth of knowledge competency must be met during the first year of graduate studies.
• Demonstrate depth of knowledge competency by passing two classes at the 7000-level in the student’s major area of research. A grade of B or better must be obtained in each course attempted.
• Attend each semester the weekly departmental colloquium series.
• Take the graduate seminar course each semester (CHEM 8960, 8970, 8980 or 8990 depending on the student’s research area).
• Participate in the Advanced Seminar in Research Development and Leadership course each semester (CHEM 8900 or equivalent).
• Register to the Doctoral Research and Dissertation course (CHEM 8950) any semester during which research facilities and/or resources are being used. There is no limit on the number of dissertation hours that can be counted toward the 90-hour requirement.
• Take the Chemistry Teaching Assistant Training class (CHEM 5100) during the first semester of graduate studies.
• Take the Graduate Chemistry Research Training class (CHEM 5710) during the first semester of graduate studies.
• Submit and orally defend a dissertation research proposal to a dissertation committee no later than during the fifth semester of study, excluding summers.
• Submit and orally defend a written dissertation to a dissertation committee. The defense is open to the public.
• The student’s graduate advisor and dissertation committee determine the specific requirements for each student within the above framework.

Culminating Experience: All students will write a dissertation that presents the student’s research.

Competency is demonstrated by passing at a level of B or better one 5000 level course in three of the five areas (analytical, biochemistry, inorganic, organic, and physical). One of the three courses can be in the student's major area, but the other two must be outside of the student's major area and must be in the other areas of chemistry and biochemistry. General/review courses will be offered each fall at the 5000 level in each research area of chemistry and biochemistry. Students failing to meet the competency requirement during their first year of graduate study may lose their financial support until competency is demonstrated or may be removed from the program at the discretion of the Graduate Committee.

Program Mission

The department's mission is to provide a quality education to graduate students while they pursue state-of-the-art research in chemistry. The objective of the graduate program is to educate and train students to become highly effective scientists by providing them with the interdisciplinary tools, research skills and ethical and service sensibilities needed to succeed in their future careers. This includes offering a variety of rigorous graduate level courses, maintaining cutting-edge research programs within individual laboratories, and compliance with the Code for Professional Ethical Conduct espoused by the American Chemical Society.

Program Learning Objectives

• To demonstrate a broad understanding of chemical concepts and an in-depth understanding of a selected topic in chemistry.
• To demonstrate competence in identifying a significant scientific problem and solving that problem through creative scientific experimentation, data analysis, and evaluation.
• To effectively communicate, both verbally and in writing, scientific concepts and outcomes.
• To work effectively both as an individual and as a collaborative team member.

Graduate Programs

Chemistry phd.

The goal of the Chemistry PhD is to prepare students for careers in science as researchers and educators by expanding their knowledge of chemistry while developing their ability for critical analysis, creativity, and independent study. A high graduation rate in an average of just over five years can be attributed to the quality of applicants admitted, the flexibility of our program of study, the opportunity for students to begin research in the first year, and the affordability of education made possible by our generous financial support policies.

Program Overview

Programs of study are tailored to the needs of individual students, based on their prior training and research interests. However, progress to a degree is generally similar for all students. During the first year, students take courses, begin their teaching apprenticeships, choose research advisors, and embark on their thesis research; students whose native language is not English must pass an English proficiency examination. Beginning the first summer, the emphasis is on research, although courses of special interest may be taken throughout a student's residency. In the second year, there is a departmental examination which includes a written research proposal and an oral defense of the research proposal. In the third year, students advance to candidacy for the doctorate by defending the topic, preliminary findings, and future research plans for their dissertation. Subsequent years focus on thesis research and writing the dissertation. Most students graduate during their fifth year.

Research Opportunities

Research opportunities for graduate students are comprehensive and interdisciplinary, spanning inorganic, organic, physical, analytical, computational, and theoretical chemistry; surface and materials chemistry; and atmospheric and environmental chemistry. Please refer to the faculty pages for full descriptions of the ongoing research in our department. State-of-the-art facilities and laboratories support these research programs.

At UCSD, chemists and biochemists are part of a thriving community that stretches across campus and out into research institutions throughout the La Jolla and San Diego area, uniting researchers in substantive interactions and collaborations.

Special Training Programs

Interdisciplinary research and collaboration at UCSD is enhanced through a variety of training grants. These programs provide financial support for exceptional graduate and postdoctoral scholars and also unite researchers from across campus and throughout the La Jolla research community in special seminars, retreats, and courses. Doctoral students are usually placed on training grants in their second year or later.

• Molecular Biophysics Training Grant
• Contemporary Approaches to Cancer Cell Signaling and CommunicationBiochemistry of Growth Regulation and Oncogenesis
• Chemistry Biology Interfaces Training Grant
• Contemporary Approaches to Cancer Cell Signaling and Communication
• Interfaces Graduate Training Program
• Molecular Pharmacology Training Program
• Quantitative Biology (qBio) Specialization

Teaching apprenticeships are a vital and integral part of graduate student training, and four quarters of teaching are required. See the Teaching Assistants page to apply. Students can gain experience teaching both discussion and laboratory sections. Excellence in teaching is stressed, and the department provides a thorough training program covering both fundamentals and special techniques for effective instruction. Further training is provided by the Teaching and Learning Commons on campus. Performance is evaluated every quarter, and awards are bestowed quarterly for outstanding teaching performance.

• Financial Support

Students in good academic standing receive a 12-month stipend; fees and tuition are also provided. Support packages come from a variety of sources, including teaching and research assistantships, training grants, fellowships, and awards. Special fellowships are awarded to outstanding students based on their admission files. See Ph.D. Program Support Policy for more information.

Health and Dental Plan

A primary health care program, major medical plan, and dental plan are among the benefits provided by the University's registration fee (see Graduate Student Health Insurance Program, GSHIP) . Minor illnesses and injuries can usually be treated at the Student Health Center . Counseling is provided free of charge through Counseling and Psychological Services .

Creative, bright, and motivated students from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. We admit for the Fall quarter entrance only. See UCSD Ph.D. Admissions FAQ page for full information.

PostGraduate Placement

Graduates typically obtain jobs in academia or in the chemical industry. Many take postdoctoral research positions in academic institutions and national laboratories that lead to future academic or industrial careers at other prestigious institutions. Our faculty and Student Affairs staff provide career advising and job placement services. The department's Industrial Relations program assists students with placement in industrial positions. UCSD's Career Services Center provides many resources for students, including the chance to videotape yourself in a mock interview!

• Biochem & MolBiophysics PhD
• Degree Requirements
• Research Tracks
• Faculty by Track
• Masters Program
• Joint Doctoral Program
• Teaching Assistants
• Student Spotlight
• Graduate Events
• Course Offerings
• Room Requests

Graduate School

• Make a Gift

Home » Chemistry (Ph.D.)

Chemistry (Ph.D.)

The Department of Chemistry has an international reputation for excellence in research across a broad array of disciplines, including analytical, biological, inorganic, organic, materials and physical chemistry. Graduate education at Colorado State aims to train creative and competent scientists through the pursuit of scientifically important research problems. Students are encouraged to cross disciplines and fields.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Chemistry

Areas of study.

• Analytical (biological laser spectroscopy and microscopy, chemical sensors, electrochemistry, microfabrication, nanostructured materials/polymer synthesis and characterization, photoelectrochemistry scanning probe microscopies, plasma chemistry, surface analysis)
• Chemical Biology (biopolymer engineering and evolution, biopolymer catalysis, macromolecular assembly, drug delivery, biopolymeric materials for sensing, analysis of biochemical and biophysical processes)
• Chemistry Education (metacognition, conceptual change, and ability to solve transfer problems, design and assessment of learning environments, low cost undergraduate laboratories)
• Inorganic (bioinorganic chemistry and chemical catalysis, coordination chemistry, kinetics and inorganic mechanisms, nanostructured materials chemistry, organometallic chemistry, solid-state chemistry, synthesis, theory, X-ray crystallography)
• Materials (biomaterials, electronic materials, nanomaterials, polymers, scanning probe microscopies, solid state chemistry, surface science, synthesis, thin films)
• Organic (asymmetric catalysis, bioconjugate chemistry, bioorganic chemistry, biosynthesis, reaction mechanisms, natural products chemistry, organometallic chemistry, organic synthesis)
• Physical (laser spectroscopy, liquids, molecular clusters, polymers, quantum theory of molecular electronic structure, reaction dynamics, solid-state NMR spectroscopy, statistical mechanics, ultra fast spectroscopy)
• Contact your department representative or request more program information .
• Check out department requirements and resources from your department’s website.
• When you’re ready to take the leap, start your application .

Requirements

Coursework, credit requirements, and more information is available in the Colorado State University general catalog . Please contact your department representative with program-related questions.

Student Employment

Graduate students interested in employment positions (GTA, GRA, GSA appointments and hourly positions) should contact their advisor and their departmental graduate coordinator for the process to apply.

Financial Aid

• Financial aid resources available through the Office of Financial Aid website.
• Your department may have financial aid options available and please check our financial resource section for additional opportunities.

Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry

Get your phd in chemistry.

Thank you for your interest in the graduate program at the University of Iowa Department of Chemistry. The Department has had a chemistry PhD program for over 75 years and consists of over 25 research faculty, approximately 130 graduate students, and over 20 postdoctoral associates, research scientists and visiting scholars. Our graduates and postdocs have accepted positions at leading academic and industrial institutions, national laboratories and government facilities, as well as some non-traditional Ph.D. careers.

The Chemistry Building and adjacent Iowa Advanced Technology Laboratory house state-of-the-art laboratories, research support facilities, classrooms, and conference rooms spaces. Extensive resources are readily accessible such as NMR , mass spectrometry , and MatFab facility for fabrication and analysis which houses our X-ray facility and numerous other instruments . The department also supports advanced computational resources, and complete machine, electronics, and glass shops . In addition to strong programs in the core areas of analytical, inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry, we offer cross-discipline research opportunities in emerging areas such as (bio)catalysis, natural product synthesis, materials, surface science, bioinorganic chemistry, chemical sensors, chemical education research, and environmental and atmospheric chemistry.

All Ph.D. students with an accepted offer and good standing with the Department of chemistry are guaranteed financial support, including an annual stipend, tuition remission, and employee benefits such as health insurance. Additional funding to support student research is available from a variety of internal and external sources . 

For more information, contact the graduate program by e-mail at [email protected] .

Student resources

• First year student guide
• Annual review resources
• Teaching assistant resources
• Postdoctoral scholar resources
• Thesis and dissertation
• General catalog
• Current courses

Degree requirements

Proficiency requirement.

Students must demonstrate basic proficiency in three chosen sub-disciplines of chemistry (analytical, biochemistry, inorganic, organic, physical). Proficiency is established in one of the following ways: Scoring at the 50th percentile level (national norm) on the proficiency exam, completing a one-semester review course with a grade of C or better (courses specified below), or completing a one-semester graduate-level/advanced course in that sub-discipline of chemistry with a grade of B or better. The proficiency requirement must be fulfilled before the beginning of the student's third semester in the graduate program.

Review courses

Courses currently designated as review courses are:

• CHEM:4171 (formerly 4:171): Advanced Analytical Chemistry
• BIOC:3120 (formerly 99:120): Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I
• CHEM:4270 (formerly 4:170): Advanced Inorganic Chemistry
• CHEM:4372 (formerly 4:172): Advanced Organic Chemistry
• CHEM:4431 (formerly 4:131): Physical Chemistry I

Advanced course requirement

Beyond the proficiency requirements, students must complete a minimum of four additional advanced courses, totaling at least eleven semester hours of graduate credit, by the end of their fourth semester in residence. Research, seminar, and pedagogy credits; courses that are listed with lower division undergraduate level numbers; and courses taken with the S/U grade option cannot be used to fulfill this requirement. Transfer credits may be applied to a portion of this requirement. Students are encouraged to develop a detailed plan with their research advisor and discuss with the graduate education committee as needed.

Courses that meet the Advanced Course criteria

Graduate Advisory Committee

Before the beginning of the third semester, after a permanent advisor has been appointed, a Graduate Academic Committee (GAC) of four faculty, at least three from Chemistry, will be formed for each student with a PhD degree objective. GACs will be composed of at least four faculty, at least three from Chemistry, who agree to support and advise the student during the course of the Ph.D. and beyond. GAC members will meet the student to discuss research progress and provide feedback and guidance as appropriate.

The committee will consist of the research advisor and three additional members who are nominated by the student, subject to the advisor’s approval, and assigned by the Graduate Education Committee (GEC). 

Comprehensive examination

The comprehensive examination is designed to assess the student's overall progress, knowledge of fundamental chemical principles and chosen area of specialization, and general competency for PhD research. To be eligible to take the Comprehensive Examination, the student must have completed the advanced coursework requirement and maintain a cumulative average of 3.00 or greater on appropriate graduate coursework at The University of Iowa. The comprehensive examination must be completed by the end of the fourth semester in residence, unless written consent for an extension is received from the GAC and is approved by the Director of Graduate Studies.

The comprehensive examination is a two-part process consisting of a written research report and an oral defense of the report.  The written document and oral defense are evaluated by the student’s GAC. Each member of the GAC will use a departmentally prescribed rubric to score the oral exam .  The exam typically occurs in a student’s fourth semester in residence.

Seminar requirements

Each student is expected to give a minimum of two acceptable seminars. One seminar must cover the student's research. The other may also deal with the student's research, or can be an extensive literature report. The student may register for the appropriate divisional seminar course and receive letter grade credit during those semesters in which the seminars are presented. The final PhD defense cannot be used to meet this requirement.

The research conference/three-month seminar

At least three months before the anticipated final defense, the PhD candidate must meet with their graduate academic committee. If scheduling permits, the research work can be reported as a research seminar during a regularly scheduled divisional seminar, with a subsequent committee meeting for questions and advice.

Final defense of the PhD dissertation

The Dean of the Graduate College will make a public announcement of a candidate’s final defense three weeks prior to the exam date. This final oral examination is open to the public. Dissertation copies must be made available to all members of the examining committee not later than two weeks before the examination date.

Milestones toward the PhD

The milestones on the path toward earning your PhD in chemistry at the University of Iowa are described below. These are illustrative of a typical student; most students follow this path, but some variations are possible.

Typical timelines for PhD completion

Create your academic path.

You'll find degree overviews, requirements, course lists, academic plans, and more to help you plan your education and explore your possibilities.

Current course list

The MyUI Schedule displays registered courses for a particular session and is available to enrolled students. The list view includes course instructors, time and location, and features to drop courses or change sections.

Quick links

• Make a Gift
• Directories

Ph.D. in Chemistry

Graduate students earn a Ph.D. through independent research in collaboration with one or more faculty members . A modest amount of graded coursework ensures a thorough grounding in the fundamentals of the chosen field, as well as breadth of knowledge in the chemical sciences. The median time to complete all requirements for the Ph.D. is about five years. Students are required to pass oral examinations in their area of specialization. There are no pre-entrance or qualifying exams.

For complete details about our doctoral program, see the pages below:

• First Year of Study
• Ph.D. Degree Requirements
• Ph.D. Degree Timeline
• 2nd Year Exam Guidelines (pdf)
• General Exam Instructions (pdf)
• Data Science Option (Chem-DSO)
• Elements of Good Academic Standing
• General Policies
• Advising & Mentoring
• Financial Support
• Student Awards
•   Facebook
•   Twitter
•   Newsletter
•   News Feed

Best Chemistry Programs

Ranked in 2023, part of Best Science Schools

With a graduate degree in chemistry, scientists may find

With a graduate degree in chemistry, scientists may find jobs in laboratories, government agencies, research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, colleges and universities, and more. These are the best chemistry schools. Each school's score reflects its average rating on a scale from 1 (marginal) to 5 (outstanding), based on a survey of academics at peer institutions. Read the methodology »

• Clear Filters

• College of Arts & Sciences
• Graduate Division
• College of Liberal and Professional Studies

• PhD Program of Study

The PhD program requirements consist of a minimum of six credit units of lecture courses  of which are usually completed in the first academic year. In addition to the six required courses, students must also take the Chemical Information Course worth 0.5 credits. Frequently, students having interdisciplinary interests will take some courses in other departments in their second semester. Twenty units of combined course and research credit are required for the Ph.D. degree, after which students enter "dissertation" status until they graduate. Graduate Chemistry Courses are listed here : 400 level and above.

The supervisor selection process occurs during the first semester of study. The process is three stages: faculty interviews, faculty seminars, and rank-ordered choices.

Faculty Interviews

First year students must conduct a series of meetings with at least 6 faculty members as potential supervisors.  Students are expected to familiarize themselves with the professors’ research and the work of their groups.  Every student must conduct these “interviews” with faculty and turn in a form  to the Graduate Office.

Faculty Seminars

A weekly seminar series featuring current faculty members interested in recruiting students for their groups.  These are generally held every Wednesday evening from mid‐September through mid-November (5-6:30pm).  Attendance at these seminars is required and recorded for all first-year students, regardless of division interest.

Rank-Ordered Choices

Towards the end of the fall semester, all first‐year students must submit a rank-ordered list of top choices for research group assignments. Students are then matched with supervisors.

We require students to serve as Teaching Assistants for at least two semesters, usually during the first year. Teaching Assistants are responsible for supervising laboratory sections or conducting recitation classes under the guidance of a faculty member. New Teaching Assistants in Chemistry are prepared for their teaching responsibility through a special training program held for one week before the start of the fall semester.

A regular program of seminars, in which distinguished scientists visit the Chemistry Department, is an essential part of the curriculum. At Penn, there are weekly departmental research seminars in biological, inorganic, organic and physical chemistry. Graduate students and postdoctoral fellows are strongly encouraged to participate. Additional interdisciplinary seminar series (Biochemistry/ Biophysics Minisymposium; Interface of Chemistry and Biology) and special sponsored lectures (Aldrich, Axalta Coatings, Novartis, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Edgar Fahs Smith, ACS Philadelphia Section Award, Philadelphia Organic Chemists' Club, etc.) also offer opportunities to hear from premier scientists.

A major portion of the work towards a Ph.D. degree is a research project leading to the thesis. This usually involves several years of research under the supervision of a particular faculty member. Increasingly, chemistry-based students are becoming involved in interdisciplinary areas of research involving collaborations with faculty, students and postdoctoral fellows from other departments or institutions.

About the Chemistry Ph.D. Program

Ph.d. in chemistry faq's.

The Chemistry PhD program is designed towards developing within each student the ability to do creative scientific research. Accordingly, the single most important facet of the curriculum for an individual is their own research project. In keeping with the goal of fostering an atmosphere of scholarly, independent study, formal course requirements are minimal and vary among disciplines; advisor's tailor course requirements to best prepare the student for the chosen research field.

The Doctoral program includes the following concentrations, each of which has specific degree requirements:

• Physical Chemistry : In general, the Physical Chemistry Graduate Program encompasses analytical, nuclear, biophysical, and theoretical chemistry.
• Synthetic Chemistry : The Synthetic Chemistry Graduate Program includes emphases in either organic or inorganic chemistry
• Chemical Biology : The Chemical Biology Graduate Program covers a range of research areas at the interface of Chemistry and Biology.

Research. A graduate student spends a good deal of time during the first week of the first semester at Berkeley talking to various faculty members about possible research projects, studying pertinent literature references, and choosing an individual project. New graduate students meet shortly after their arrival with a faculty adviser. From the faculty adviser the student obtains a list of faculty members whose research may interest the student. After visiting these and additional faculty, if necessary, the student chooses a research director, with the consent of the faculty member and the graduate adviser. By the end of the first semester most students have made a choice and are full-fledged members of research group. Students in the Chemical Biology Graduate Program will select their thesis advisor after completion of three-ten week rotations. Thereafter, all students become involved in library research on their projects and many begin actual experimental or theoretical work.

Independent Study. A student who chooses to specialize in physical chemistry is normally expected to take two courses per semester during the first year and one or two additional semesters of coursework sometimes during the second year. These may include topics such Quantum Mechanics, Statistical Mechanics, Group Theory, Interactions of Radiation with Matter, and many more. At the other extreme, a student specializing in inorganic chemistry will concentrate more heavily on special topics seminars and take fewer courses. The course offerings in the University are varied so that individual students have the opportunity to take other courses which serve their own needs. Such as, a student working on nuclear chemistry will probably elect additional graduate physics courses, while a student working on biophysical or bio-organic problems may take courses offered by the Biochemistry Department. Students in the Chemical Biology program will take courses from both Chemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology departments.

Seminars. Because of the size and diversity of the Berkeley faculty, there are many seminars on a variety of topics which students may choose to attend. There are regular weekly seminars in several major areas, including biophysical, physical, nuclear, organic, theoretical, solid state, and inorganic chemistry. These seminars are presented by members of the Berkeley faculty, as well as distinguished visitors to the campus. These seminars allow the students to become aware of the most important current research going on in the field. In addition to these regular seminars, there are several regular department seminars devoted to presentations by graduate students. One of the doctoral program requirements is that each student delivers a departmental seminar known as a graduate research conference during the second year. Individual research groups also hold regular research seminars. The format of these small, informal seminars varies. In some cases, graduate students discuss their own current research before the other members of the research group. On other occasions, the group seminars may be devoted to group discussions of recent papers which are of interest to the particular research group. In any event, small group seminars are one of the most important ways in which students learn by organizing and interpreting their own results before their peers.

Qualifying Exam. Sometime during the second year of graduate work at Berkeley, each student takes a qualifying examination. The examining board, a committee of four faculty members, is appointed to examine the student for general competence in the area of interest. The qualifying examination is centered around the defense of the individual research project. Upon satisfactory completion of the oral qualifying examination, the student is advanced to candidacy for the Ph.D. degree. After advancement, the student completes an original, scholarly contribution to science and writes a dissertation on the subject. Most students complete their work and received their degree within five years.

Teaching. An integral part of the graduate education at Berkeley is teaching. The department requires that each doctoral candidate assist in the instructional program of the department as a teaching assistant for two semesters during their graduate careers. The faculty regard the teaching experience as highly valuable for all graduate students, especially those who plan to teach as a career.

Financial Aid. All students admitted to our graduate program receive a stipend for the duration of study in the form of teaching and research assistantships as long as they are in residence and demonstrate good progress toward the degree. Students also receive full tution, health, dental and vision insurance. Most funds for this support derive from research contracts and grants.

For more information see the Berkeley Bulletin

top of page

• Utility Menu

gA4 tracking code

Department of chemistry and chemical biology.

• Donate to CCB

Graduate Program

Science in the 21st century is rich with opportunity and challenge. Our pillars for success in this complex world are all tied to interactions—between people and between disciplines. By building both strong interpersonal connections between our students and faculty, and effective bridges between disciplines, entering graduate students in the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology can thrive at the frontiers of research in the chemical and life sciences.

Our graduate programs prioritize research and exploration. With many opportunities to interact with departments, research centers, and institutions across the Boston area, our students benefit from an interdisciplinary environment that encourages curiosity and innovation. Students can choose from one of our following two graduate degree programs:

Chemistry & Chemical Biology

Our program in Chemistry offers research and training opportunities in many subdisciplines of chemistry, including chemical biology, inorganic, organic, physical, and theoretical.

Chemical Physics

Our interdepartmental Chemical Physics program is designed for students who wish to prepare themselves for the study of chemical problems by the methods and theories of modern physics.

Prospective students

Current graduate students, news about our graduate students.

• Chemistry Internship Reunion Celebrates Success of Local High Schoolers
• CCB publishes fourth edition of CCB Magazine
• School of Life

• Diversity and Inclusion
• Faculty & Staff Directory
• Tell Us About You
• Chemistry Advisory Board
• Chemistry Graduate Student Association
• Available Positions
• Programs of Study
• Honors in Major
• Peer Led Team Learning (PLTL)
• Graduate Student Orientation & Placement Exam Schedule Fall 2022
• Chemistry Graduate Program Info Request
• Chemistry Graduate Student Handbook
• Graduation Information
• Research Projects
• Spring 2024 Seminar Series
• Fall 2024 Seminar Series
• Harold A. Iddles Seminar Series
• The Chemistry and Sustainability Lecture Series
• Alumni Engagement Speaker Series
• LaMattina Lecture Series
• Organic Syntheses Distinguished Lecture Series
• Dry Ice and Liquid Nitrogen
• Research Lab Supplies
• Student Course Lab Supplies
• Advising Forms and Info
• Graduate Student Graduation
• Instrumentation
• Give to UNH Chemistry
• Follow Us on Facebook
• Follow Us on Twitter
• Follow Us on Instagram
• Follow Us on YouTube
• Undergraduate Programs
• Graduate Programs
• Chemistry Stockroom

Chemistry: Chemistry Education (Ph.D.)

Why pursue a Ph.D. in chemistry education at UNH?

Our purpose is to prepare professionals who will change the field of teaching and learning in chemistry.This requires developing a deep knowledge of chemistry, fluency with the literature and methods of education,and skill with research tools from the cognitive and social sciences. You will be prepared for careers involving college-level chemistry teaching, STEM curriculum design, student assessment and STEM professional development. You will conduct original research leading to submission of a dissertation, and develop strong written and oral communication skills necessary for advanced work in education, research and academia.

Program highlights

UNH has one of the early national Ph.D. programs in chemistry education. You will engage with the program like all other chemistry graduate students—taking a small set of core advanced chemistry courses and participating in master’s-level chemistry research. Some students may enter the program with a master’s degree, courses, and research experience already in hand. Within the first year, you will begin to participate in chemistry education group meetings and to plan your pathway for study of human cognition, qualitative research methods, and quantitative statistical methods. Your research could involve interviews to understand how a few students conceive of molecules or solve chemistry problems. Or you might design and test a new learning approach within a chemistry course of hundreds. There is a variety of interesting research questions in this relatively new field of study. Financial support is typically available through teaching assistantships.

Potential career areas

• Chemistry professor
• College laboratory coordinator
• Curriculum designer
• Educational program assessment coordinator
• Teaching and learning center professional development provider

Christopher Bauer

Request information.

Contact Information

Curriculum & Requirements

Program description.

The Ph.D. Option in Chemistry Education  is designed for students who plan a career at the interface of Science and Education (e.g. discipline-based education research, educational program assessment, STEM curricular design, chemistry teaching, etc.). The rigorous program involves coursework in Chemistry, Psychology and Education and original research in Chemistry Education, leading to the submission of a dissertation. Students with a research-based MS (or equivalent) will be admitted directly to the program. Students with a BS (or equivalent) will first obtain an MS degree, carrying out original laboratory-based research with a faculty mentor, and submitting a thesis. The program has a focus on developing strong writing and oral communication skills. Financial support is typically available through a teaching assistantship.

Requirements for the Program

Ph.d. option in chemistry education.

• Demonstration of a broad understanding of undergraduate chemistry by passing a series of basic examinations or satisfactory performance in approved courses.
• Demonstration of chemistry laboratory research proficiency by completing a thesis-based M.S. (or equivalent) either at UNH or another university.
• Satisfactory performance in a series of courses in science education, cognition, and qualitative/quantitative research methods.
• Attendance at Department seminars.
• Attendance at Graduate Research Update (GRU) sessions and presentation once annually from year 2 onward.
• Satisfactory presentation of a Thesis Research Proposal (TRP) in the second year of residence,
• Preparation and oral defense of an Original Research Proposal (ORP) in the third year of residence. Successful completion of the Original Research Proposal (ORP) enables the student to advance to candidacy.
• One oral presentation at a regional or technical conference, and one oral or poster presentation at the UNH Graduate Research Symposium.
• Preparation, public presentation, and oral defense of a written dissertation.
• GPA of 3.0 or higher required to graduate.
• Please contact the department for additional information on this option.

Faculty Research Advisor and Dissertation Committee

Students select a research advisor during the first semester in the program after interviewing at least three faculty members. During each semester thereafter, students conduct independent research under the supervision of the Faculty Research Advisor. In the second year of residence and before the Thesis Research Proposal, a dissertation committee is selected. This committee evaluates the student's Thesis Research Proposal and the Original Research Proposal. Once the Original Research Proposal has been passed and the student advances to candidacy, a fifth committee member is selected and added to the Dissertation Committee to evaluate the Dissertation Defense.

Student Learning Outcomes

All Chemistry graduate students will be able to:

Display a comprehensive knowledge of chemistry, with greater depth demonstrated in at least one subdiscipline.

• Chemistry students in the Ph.D. and the M.S. program should have a basic knowledge of the field, with that knowledge being at least the level of the material taught in first-year chemistry and the initial courses in undergraduate sub-disciplinary classes (analytical, inorganic, organic, physical chemistry, and biochemistry).

Ph.D. students should demonstrate focused and deep expertise in their area of scholarly exploration, including an understanding of the current status of the topic. M.S. students should also demonstrate clear focus in scholarly pursuits.

• In the area of specialization, a Ph.D. student’s knowledge of the field should, at a minimum, be comparable to special topics classes at the graduate level.
• Students should demonstrate capabilities of searching the literature to become familiar with the current state of the field.

Apply critical thinking skills in the evaluation of scientific work, by analyzing, organizing, and evaluating scientific data and knowledge.

• Careful attention to and critical evaluation of material encountered in the literature, in seminars, and research activity is evidence of scientific maturation.

Generate hypotheses, design strategies, perform studies, and interpret results that lead to new knowledge in the field, including the

• Application of central methods and techniques, including laboratory skills, statistical and computational methods, data gathering, and record-keeping to deliver detailed information and reproducible results.
• Demonstration of an understanding of the scientific method through the Original Research Proposal and through laboratory research (dissertation).
• Conduct of consequential scientific inquiry that advances a scientific field as required for a dissertation and peer-reviewed publications.

Communicate scientific information with effectiveness to both experts and novices in oral and written form, including methods, results, and conclusions.

• Demonstration of the ability to engage in communication appropriate for the audience.
• Present scientific material with clarity, accuracy, and precision.

Perform research in a professional, ethical, and safe manner.

• Students must participate in and apply knowledge from required training in laboratory safety and the responsible conduct of research; additional specialized training in these areas is encouraged.
• Students should develop skills in applicable professional areas, such as pedagogy, teamwork and team building, and leadership, through mentoring, instructional activity, and workshops.
• Safety and ethical behavior should be demonstrated in all activities, including both instructional and research activity.

Application Requirements & Deadlines

Applications must be completed by the following deadlines in order to be reviewed for admission:

• Fall : Feb. 15 (for funding); April 1 (final)
• Spring : Dec. 1
• Summer : N/A
• Special : N/A

Application fee : $65

Campus : Durham

New England Regional : No

Accelerated Masters Eligible : No

New Hampshire Residents

Students claiming in-state residency must also submit a Proof of Residence Form . This form is not required to complete your application, but you will need to submit it after you are offered admission or you will not be able to register for classes.

Transcripts

If you attended UNH or Granite State College (GSC) after September 1, 1991, and have indicated so on your online application, we will retrieve your transcript internally; this includes UNH-Durham, UNH-Manchester, UNH Non-Degree work and GSC. 

If you did not attend UNH, or attended prior to September 1, 1991, then you must upload a copy (PDF) of your transcript in the application form. International transcripts must be translated into English.

If admitted , you must then request an official transcript be sent directly to our office from the Registrar's Office of each college/university attended. We accept transcripts both electronically and in hard copy:

• Electronic Transcripts : Please have your institution send the transcript directly to [email protected] . Please note that we can only accept copies sent directly from the institution.
• Paper Transcripts : Please send hard copies of transcripts to: UNH Graduate School, Thompson Hall- 105 Main Street, Durham, NH 03824. You may request transcripts be sent to us directly from the institution or you may send them yourself as long as they remain sealed in the original university envelope.

Transcripts from all previous post-secondary institutions must be submitted and applicants must disclose any previous academic or disciplinary sanctions that resulted in their temporary or permanent separation from a previous post-secondary institution. If it is found that previous academic or disciplinary separations were not disclosed, applicants may face denial and admitted students may face dismissal from their academic program.

Letters of recommendation: 3 required

Recommendation letters submitted by relatives or friends, as well as letters older than one year, will not be accepted.

Personal Statement

Prepare a brief but carefully crafted statement that includes: 1) Research experience. State the goals of your previous research and accomplishments to date. Including a list of publications, presentations, and awards within the Experience and Background section of the application is encouraged; however, please do not send actual publications or presentations. 2) Clear reasons why you wish to perform graduate work in chemistry education research. Include your immediate and long-range objectives. 3) Those UNH Chemistry faculty whose research interests you and why. If you do no yet hold a research-based M.S. degree, be sure to include those faculty whose laboratory-based research interests you. 4) Additional information that will enhance the selection committee’s understanding of your personal background and life experiences, including educational (e.g. teaching and leadership experience), cultural, familial, or other opportunities or challenges.

Statements must be included with your submitted application.

Important Notes

All applicants are encouraged to contact programs directly to discuss program-specific application questions.

International Applicants

Prospective international students are required to submit TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent examination scores. English Language Exams may be waived if English is your first language. If you wish to request a waiver, then please visit our Test Scores webpage for more information.

Explore Program Details

Faculty directory.

Carmela Amato-Wierda

Aylin Aykanat

Marc Boudreau

Christine Caputo

Sean Edington

Jeffrey Halpern

Stacey Hughes

Glen Miller

Marie-Josiane Ohoueu

Nate Oldenhuis

Roy Planalp

John Tsavalas

Krisztina Varga

Harish Vashisth

Brittany White-Mathieu

Katharine Winans

Charles Zercher

Checklists & forms.

• Graduate Student Handbook

Related Links

• Parsons Hall Emergency Operations Plan
• Resources Chemistry Stockroom, Instrumentation, Chemistry Library, Chemistry Hygiene Plan
• Scholarships

take the next step

Department of Chemistry

Ph.D. Courses

Chem 5010 inorganic chemistry.

A survey of modern inorganic chemistry including coordination compounds and the compounds of the main-group elements. Representative reactions and current theories are treated. No credit for students who have earned credit for 3010. [3]

CHEM 5020 Introduction to Bioinorganic Chemistry

(Also listed as CHEM 3020) Functions of inorganic elements in living cells. The manner in which coordination can modify the properties of metallic ions in living systems. No credit for students who have earned credit for 3020. [3]

CHEM 5030 Physical Methods in Inorganic Chemistry

Application of spectroscopic methods to inorganic chemistry. Discussion of symmetry and group theory as required for the use of spectroscopic methods is also included. [3]

CHEM 5040 Nanoparticles

Bottom-up synthetic schemes for nanoparticle construction; characterization techniques; consequences of quantum confinement, and surface area enhancement; design for specific applications. No credit for students who earned credit for 304 section 1 in fall 2011 or spring 2013. Prerequisite or corequisite: 3010. [3]

CHEM 5050 Introduction to Organometallic Chemistry

(Also listed as CHEM 4050) A general description of the preparation, reaction chemistry, molecular structure, bonding, and spectroscopic identification of organometallic compounds of the transition metals. No credit for students who have earned credit for 4050. [3]

CHEM 5120 Instrumental Analytical Chemistry

(Also listed as CHEM 3120) Chemical and physical principles of modern analytical chemistry instrumentation. No credit for students who have earned credit for 3120. [3]

CHEM 5130 Advanced Analytical Chemistry

Design and analysis of experimental data, instrumental design, and analytical surface science. [1-3]

CHEM 5140 Analytical Mass Spectrometry

Theory, design, and interpretation of mass spectrometry instrumentation and experiments. [3]

CHEM 5150 Electrochemistry

Theory and Analysis. [3]

CHEM 5160 Separation Methods

Theories of separation science; distillation, capillary electrophoresis, membrane separation, and supercritical fluid extraction; emphasis on chromatography. [3]

CHEM 5210 Organic Structure, Mechanism, and Reactions

Theory, models, and description of chemical bonding. Stereochemistry, and conformational analysis. Reaction thermodynamics, kinetics, and mechanism. Synthetic transformations employed in small molecule synthesis. Serves as repeat credit for CHEM 4210. Not open to students who have earned credit for CHEM 5209 without permission. Total credit earned for this course and CHEM 5209 will not exceed 4 hours. Credit reduced from most recent course taken (or from test or transfer credit) as appropriate. Prerequisite: One year of organic chemistry. [4]

CHEM 5220 Spectroscopic Identification of Organic Compounds

(Also listed as CHEM 3220) Theoretical and practical aspects of spectroscopic methods, with an emphasis on NMR spectroscopy, for structural characterization of organic compounds. No credit for students who have earned credit for 3220. [3]

CHEM 5230 Physical Organic Chemistry

Also listed as CHEM 4230) Structure and bonding in organic molecules. Reactive intermediates and organic reaction mechanisms. No credit for students who have earned credit for 4230. [3]

CHEM 5240 Advanced Organic Reactions

(Also listed as CHEM 4240) A comprehensive study of organic reactions and their application to the preparation of small molecules. Three lectures per week. No credit for students who have earned credit for 4240. [3]

CHEM5310 – Physical Chemistry: Chemical Thermodynamics and Equilibrium

(Also listed as CHEM 3310) Chemical thermodynamics and equilibrium, their statistical foundation, and applications to chemical phenomena. [3]

CHEM 5320 Quantum Chemistry

Limits of classical mechanics at the atomic and molecular level; postulates of quantum mechanics applied to problems in one, two, and three dimensions; perturbation and other methods. Prerequisite: 3300 or equivalent. [3]

CHEM 5330 Spectroscopy

Experimental and theoretical aspects of spectroscopy. Energy levels, selection rules, and spectral transitions related to atomic and molecular structure. Design of contemporary magnetic resonance and optical spectroscopy measurements. Prerequisite: 3310. [3]

CHEM 5340 Applications of Group Theory

Molecular symmetry, point groups, and character tables. Application to molecular orbitals, vibrational spectra, organic and inorganic systems. [3]

CHEM 5350 Statistical Thermodynamics

Statistical mechanics and chemical equilibrium; distribution laws, partition functions, and thermodynamic properties of atoms and molecules; applications to gases, liquids, and solids. Prerequisite: 232. [3]

CHEM 5360 Advanced Quantum Chemistry

Advanced topics in the application of quantum mechanics to chemical bonding and spectroscopy. Prerequisite: 5320. [3]

CHEM 5410 Molecular Modeling

Computer simulation studies of molecules with emphasis on applications to biological molecules and complexes. Background theory, implementation details, capabilities, and practical limitations. Prerequisites: 3300 and 3310. Includes one three-hour laboratory per week. Serves as repeat credit for students who completed 233 prior to fall 2010. [4]

CHEM 5420 Computational Structural Biochemistry

Theoretical and practical aspects of protein sequence alignments, secondary structure prediction, comparative modeling, protein-protein and protein-ligand docking. Structure-based drug design, virtual screening, quantitative structure activity relations, cheminformatics, and pharmacophore mapping in therapeutic development. Prerequisite: 3310. Serves as repeat credit for students who completed 238 prior to fall 2010. [4]

CHEM 5600 Chemical Literature

(Also listed as CHEM 3600) Assigned readings and problems in the nature and use of the chemical literature. No credit for students who have earned credit for 3600. [1]

CHEM 5610 Chemistry of Inorganic Materials

Chemical synthesis, processing, characterization, and applications of inorganic materials. Molecular precursor routes to inorganic solids. Structure and bonding properties of materials at the atomic, molecular, or extended molecular level and their relationship to desired properties. Carbon-based materials (graphene, fullerenes, diamond), ceramics and zeolites, semiconductors, electronic, magnetic, and optical materials, and nanomaterials. Prerequisite: General chemistry. Serves as repeat credit for students who completed 350 in fall 2011, fall 2009, or fall 2007. [3]

CHEM 5620 Chemistry of Biological Materials

The synthesis, directed self-assembly, and hierarchical organization of naturally occurring materials. Engineering of new bioinspired artificial materials for diverse applications. Materials and devices from DNA, genetic reprogramming of the design of new materials. Peptide-, protein-, and carbohydrate-based materials. Biomineralization, biomimetic systems, and complexity in self-assembly. [3]

CHEM 5630 Macromolecular Chemistry:

Polymers, Dendrimers, and Surface Modifications: (Also listed as CHEM 3630) Synthesis and characterization of macromolecular materials including linear, branched, dendrimetric, and star polymers. Mechanical and physiochemical properties of polymeric types. Kinetics of living polymerization. Applications to nanostructures, templates, and advanced devices. No credit for students who have earned credit for 3630. [3]

CHEM 5710 Bioorganic Chemistry

 (Also listed as CHEM 3710) Essential metabolites including vitamins, steroids, peptides, and nucleotides. Consideration of phosphate esters and the synthesis of oligodeoxynucleotides. Three lectures per week. No credit for students who have earned credit for 5710. [3]

CHEM 5720 Drug Design and Development

(Also listed as CHEM 4720) Concepts of drug design; physical chemistry of drug interactions with receptors, enzymes, and DNA; drug absorption and distribution. Organic chemistry of drug metabolism; mechanism of action for selected therapeutic classes. No credit for students who have earned credit for 4720. [3]

CHEM 6050 Special Topics in Inorganic Chemistry

Special Topics in Inorganic Chemistry

CHEM 6150 Special Topics in Analytical Chemistry

Special Topics in Analytical Chemistry

CHEM 6250 Special Topics in Organic Chemistry

Special Topics in Organic Chemistry

CHEM 6340 Special Topics in Chemical Physics

Special Topics in Chemical Physics

CHEM 6900 Professional Development

Grant writing, from specific aims and development of hypotheses to broader impact statements. The curriculum vitae, the “three-minute thesis” pitch, scientific presentations, and responsible conduct in research. Open only to chemistry graduate students. May be repeated for credit once for a total of two credit hours. [1]

CHEM 6901 Introduction to Research

Introduction to chemical research under the guidance of individual faculty members. Students participate in three rotations among faculty research groups and provide graded work. For chemistry graduate students only. [1-2]

CHEM 6902 Practicum in Chemistry Instruction

Preparation for and the teaching of chemistry to undergraduate students. [0-1]

Chemical and Physical Biology

Cpbp 8306 introduction to chemical and physical biology.

An introduction to living systems, with strong emphasis on the logic of component interactions, in scales ranging from molecules to organisms. Basic properties of complex biological systems are covered, including robustness, adaptability and self-organization. Cell component parts surveyed include: Nucleic Acids, Proteins, Carbohydrates, Lipids, Cytoskeleton, Secreted Factors, Transcription Factor Networks, Channels and Receptors. The Cell is presented as the principal context and actor for biology to happen, covering: Cell Identity, Epigenetics, Metabolism, Cell Growth Pathways, Stress Response Pathways, Tissue architecture, Organs, Immune System. State-of-the-art methods for computational and experimental analyses are addressed both throughout the lectures, and in specific topics including Drug Discovery, Imaging, Working with Big Data [1-5]

CPBP 8310 Graduate Seminar in Chemical Biology

This course aims to introduce fundamental concepts of contemporary science at the interface of chemical biology. A series of overviews and in-depth case studies will demonstrate the breadth of chemical biology and the importance of this emerging field in advancing biological sciences. [1]

CPBP 8320 Foundations in Chemical Biology

A series of overviews and in-depth case studies will demonstrate the breadth of chemical biology and the importance of this emerging field in advancing biological sciences. [3]

Biochemistry

Bchm-gs 8300 introduction to structural biology.

Introduction to methods to determine the three-dimensional structures of biological macromolecules and macromolecular complexes at or near atomic resolution. Techniques covered include X-ray crystallography, NMR, EPR, and fluorescence spectroscopies, cryo-electron microscopy, and computational modeling. Emphasis is placed on practical aspects of each technique and the range of applications for which each technique is applicable. The course is given during the first third of the semester, just preceding Biochemistry 8303. SPRING. [1] Chazin, Egli, Lacy, Lang, Mchaourab, Sheehan.

BCHM-GS 8301 Enzyme Mechanisms and Kinetics of Catalysis

This course is focused on the chemical mechanisms by which enzymes catalyze reactions. Chemical principles are applied to biochemical problems. Major topics include principles of catalysis, enzyme kinetics (both steady-state and pre-equilibrium), roles of cofactors and prosthetic groups in catalysis, and interpretation of kinetic results. Prerequisites: Organic chemistry, biochemistry. SPRING [1] Guengerich

BCHM-GS 8303 Biomolecular X-Ray Crystallography

Introduction to the theory and practice of X-ray crystallography for the determination of the three-dimensional structure of biological macromolecules at atomic resolution. Topics to be covered include X-ray diffraction, symmetry and space groups, crystallization, data collection, phasing, model building, refinement and validation. Prerequisite: Biochemistry 8300, Introduction to Structural Biology. Prerequisite: BCHM-GS 8300, SPRING. [2] Egli, Harp.

BCHM-GS 8336 Biochemical and Molecular Toxicology

Chemical and biological aspects of toxicology and carcinogenesis, including basic principles and mechanisms, metabolism and enzymology, cellular biology, chemistry of reactive intermediates, tissue-specific toxicity, and a survey of several classes of environmentally important compounds and drugs. Prerequisite: organic chemistry and general biochemistry. Three lectures per week. FALL. [3] Guengerich

BCHM-GS 8337 Molecular Aspects of Cancer Research

(Also listed as Cell and Developmental Biology 8337) A focused series of seminars and discussions to explore the molecular basis of cancer. Seminars rely heavily on extramural speakers with recognized expertise in selected research areas. Discussion sections led by a faculty member following each series of three to four seminars. SPRING. [1] Hiebert and Staff.

BCHM-GS 8343 Biomolecular NMR Spectroscopy

Introduction to the theory and practice of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy for the study of the structure, dynamics, and biochemistry of biological macromolecules. After introducing the basic concepts of NMR and formalisms for predicting the outcome of experiments, topics to be covered will include multidimensional NMR, scalar and dipolar couplings, chemical exchange, relaxation, resonance assignment strategies, and determination of 3D structures. Prerequisite: Biochemistry 8300. FALL. [3] Chazin, Sanders, Voehler.

BCHM-GS 8352 Analytical Proteomics

Introduces analytical proteomics methods and approaches through lectures, directed readings, and group and individual data analysis exercises. Topics include (a) mass spectrometry instrumentation, (b) mass spectrometry approaches to protein and peptide analysis, (c) protein and peptide preparation and separation methods, (d) bioinformatics tools for identification of proteins from mass spectrometry data, (e) quantitative proteomics methods, (f) applications of proteomics in common experimental designs in biochemistry and cell biology, (g) applications to clinical studies. SPRING. [2]. Schey

Interdisciplinary Materials Science

Ims 5320 nanoscale science and engineering.

A multidisciplinary study of the fundamentals uniquely pertaining to the processing, structure, and performance of materials on the dimensional scale of tens to hundreds of atoms. The science and engineering of nanomaterials. Methods for synthesis and fabrication, techniques for characterization, and the attainment of special properties at the nanoscale. An examination of applications in biotechnology, medicine, and engineering. FALL. [3]

PHYS 8124 Physical Measurements on Biological Systems:

(Also listed as Biomedical Engineering 7425) A survey of the state of the art in quantitative physical measurement techniques applied to cellular or molecular physiology. Topics include the basis for generation, measurement, and control of the transmembrane potential; electrochemical instrumentation; optical spectroscopy and imaging; X-ray diffraction for determination of macromolecular structure; magnetic resonance spectroscopy and imaging. One lecture and one recitation. [3]

Environmental Engineering

Enve 5600 environmental chemistry.

(Also listed as ENVE 4600) Theoretical aspects of physical, organic, and inorganic chemistry applied to environmental engineering. Estimation of chemical parameters based on thermodynamic and structural activity relationships, kinetics of chemical reactions, equilibrium processes in the environment, including the carbonate system, metal complexation and precipitation. No credit for students who have earned credit for 4600. FALL. [3]

Biomedical Engineering

Bme 7425 physical measurements on biological systems.

A survey of the state-of-the-art in quantitative physical measurement techniques applied to cellular or molecular physiology. Topics include the basis for generation, measurement, and control of the transmembrane potential; electrochemical instrumentation; optical spectroscopy and imaging; x-ray diffraction for determination of macromolecular structure; magnetic resonance spectroscopy and imaging. Prerequisite: PHYS 2250. SPRING. [3]

BME 8901 Special Topics – Systems Biology

Special Topics – Systems Biology

Electrical Engineering

Eece 6301 introduction to solid state materials.

Properties of charged particles under the influence of an electric field, quantum mechanics, particle statistics, fundamental particle transport, and band theory of solids. FALL. [3]

Chemistry (Online), M.S.

Department Is Consistently in Top 5% of Master's Degree-Granting Institutions in the Country

Classes Are Completely Online — No On-Campus Requirement

Our alumni work in:

Work with scientists developing new drugs and treatments for disease.

Test for pollutants in water, the atmosphere and in food.

Develop new chemicals for construction, aerospace industry and cosmetics.

Work in drug companies, the cosmetic industry and the food industry.

Teach science in high schools, community colleges and universities.

Demonstrate knowledge of concepts in chemistry (organic, general, physical, and biochemistry)

Apply knowledge in chemistry to real-world problems

Engage in rigorous scientific inquiry and communicate ideas in writing

Advance Your Career Goals

Our program deepens your knowledge of chemistry with extensive coursework, while also providing tracks in business, education, or clinical research to advance career goals.

Obtaining a graduate degree in chemistry while working full-time can seem like an insurmountable challenge.

UNCW's fully online program is designed for someone with an undergraduate science degree who is working full-time.

Flexibility

Our program requires only online coursework, and there is no on-campus requirement to complete the program.

Pursuing an online master’s degree has distinct advantages over the traditional path for working students. This includes:

• You have more time flexibility. You will be able to remain employed full-time while earning a graduate degree. Since there is no designated class time, you can go over the course material at any time of the day.
• You can set your own pace based on your experience and background. If you are familiar with a certain topic, you can quickly move through that section of the course. Conversely, you can spend more time on a topic if it is unfamiliar or difficult.
• You can take the course anywhere with internet access: at work, home or while traveling. If you relocate, you can still finish the degree from the new location.

Sample Courses in Chemistry

How do i apply to the chemistry (online), m.s. program.

Applicants seeking admission to the online graduate program in chemistry are required to submit the following:

• An official application for graduate admission
• Official transcripts of all college work (undergraduate and graduate)
• Three professional references

A major factor in admissions decisions is how a person did as an undergraduate. We look for a GPA of at least 3.0 and a strong chemistry background.

Work experience and recommendations are also considered.

Although an undergraduate degree in chemistry is desirable, some of our traditional graduate students have undergraduate degrees in other disciplines (often biology) but have taken several chemistry courses as undergraduates.

Admission Deadlines & Requirements

Information: m.s. chemistry - online.

• Complete applications are reviewed for admission by the program as they are received.
• All application and supporting documents must be received by the published deadline.

Coordinator

• Dr. Hyunjung "Kelly" Lee - Distance Education 910-962-7123 [email protected]  

Location/Delivery Method

• Distance Education - Fully Online - asynchronous (instructional materials made available on the Internet and available 24 hours a day every day-not time-dependent slots).

Concentration

• Chemical - Non-thesis (distance education)

Deadlines (11:59 p.m. EST)

• November 15, 2023
• July 1, 2024

Transcripts

• One official transcript is required from each U.S. post-secondary institution attended. Refer to the Getting Started page for international transcript instructions.

Test Scores

• GRE General Test
• WAIVED - Test scores are waived for this program during 2024 due to the pandemic. No additional action required. Test scores will be waived during application processing.

Recommendations

• 3 recommendations by individuals in professionally relevant fields

Additional Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree: A bachelor’s degree with a concentration in chemistry from a regionally accredited college or university in this country, or its equivalent in a foreign institution, is required for admission, along with a “B” average or better in chemistry courses. 

Learn more about the Department

Related Programs

Biology, b.s..

Designed to meet the needs of BIO majors who may wish to pursue further education in graduate school in Biology or professional schools in the health sciences.

Environmental Science, B.S.

Designed to give students the depth of intellectual and analytical skills along with the scholarly background necessary to understand and solve environmental problems.

• Request Info
• Grad School? Apply Now
• Bachelor's? Apply Here

You're capable of more. We'll help you prove it.

• Online Degrees
• Certificate Programs

Chemistry - Online Graduate Certificate

Earning certificates can earn you more..

Earning a Chemistry certificate is the perfect opportunity for students who have already earned a bachelor's degree in chemistry, or a related STEM discipline, with a minor or equivalent in chemistry. By enrolling, you'll have the chance to expand your expertise, stay ahead of the curve, and position yourself as a sought-after asset in the competitive job market.

Why UW-Whitewater Online?

• Asynchronous program lets you learn day or night
• Build connections through online assignments and discussion boards
• Affordable tuition

Fully Online

No requirements to come to campus.

Flexible and convenient for your schedule

Specialized

Enhance your career and expand your knowledge.

The online graduate certificate in Chemistry is an 18-credit program. This program can be started in the spring, summer or fall terms, and at a pace that works best for you. Full-time students can finish in as little as a year in a half.

For a comprehensive overview of the program structure and required courses, please refer to the  Graduate Catalog .

Admission Requirements

To qualify for the certificate program, you must have earned a chemistry or STEM-field bachelors degree with a minor or the equivalent in chemistry and meet graduate admission criteria .

Deadlines vary by term and are subject to change without notice. Accurate and up-to-date admission deadlines can be found on the graduate admission deadlines website .

If you do not meet the graduate admission criteria, please  email  us to determine if you could be admitted on a conditional basis.

International students must meet additional criteria and will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.  Contact us  for information and assistance.

Online Tuition

This program at UW-Whitewater is a superior value at $610.55 USD per credit as a resident and $1,198.54 USD per credit as a non-resident for the 2023-24 academic year.

If you compare our graduate tuition to others, you will find that this per-credit price is quite reasonable. Visit the  Tuition and Fees webpage for complete information.

Course materials Graduate students can purchase textbooks and other instructional materials through the University Bookstore or elsewhere online. Students should verify what materials are needed with their instructor.

Financial aid

Students enrolled in a graduate certificate program only are not eligible for federal aid. 

Students completing a certificate with a degree program may be eligible for financial aid in the form of grants, loans, scholarships, or employment. All of these make up a “Financial Aid Package” and may be offered singly or in various combinations. Since funds are limited, priority for aid is based on financial need and how promptly applications are filed. To find out if you qualify, or if you have other financial aid questions, contact the financial aid staff person assigned to you  or try  [email protected]  or 262-472-1130.

Tour UW-Whitewater

Intersted in taking a tour of UW-Whitewater campus? You can visit in person or virtually.

Information Sessions

Like to learn more about degree options through UW-Whitewater School of Graduate Studies? There are a few ways you can get the information you need.

Visit our information sessions website to select a virtual information session related to the program you are interested in. You can also fill out a  request for information to connect with an advisor who can discuss your goals and help guide you to the right program to pursue your dreams.

Consider a Master's Degree at UW-Whitewater

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater offers an excellent opportunity to leverage your existing certificate coursework. 

Transfer up to 12-credits of your certificate coursework towards the master's degree, saving you time and money.

Check out our Master's programs .

Find Out More

Are you ready to redefine your future? Get started by requesting information or take a test drive to experience easier and more engaging learning.

Are You Ready?

Get started by clicking below.  Apply now to further your education.

Mercedes-Benz South Africa is offering a unique development opportunity for recently qualified graduates, who desire to be an integral part of the MBSA talent pool.

What does the MBSA Graduate Development Programme offer?   

• relevant practical experience in your field of study
• exposure to a world class manufacturing facility and environment
• an opportunity to apply for positions within the organisation
• coaching and mentoring support

Contact: Jade Vengadajellum

Email: [email protected]

Closing date: 22 April 2024

In your application, please include

• A CV as an attachment (ensure that the file size is small enough to upload, e.g. PDF) 
• Certified copies of your Grade 12 and tertiary certificates, and your latest Tertiary academic record
• A copy of your ID
• Ensure a contact number and email address is provided

EMAIL ADDRESS PROVIDED IS FOR QUERY PURPOSES ONLY.

Applications sent by email will not be considered.

If you do not hear from us within 4 weeks , please consider your application to be unsuccessful.

Mercedes-Benz South Africa is committed to Employment Equity when recruiting, this includes persons with disabilities. Interested foreign nationals who wish to apply must qualify for a work visa/permits as per the provisions of the Immigration Act 13, 2002.

Who can apply?

• Candidates who have recently graduated within the last 3 years
• South African Citizens
• Graduates from the Eastern Cape region will have an added advantage when applying for the programme
• Recently qualified graduates, (with a full NQF 6 or higher), in the following career streams:
• Electrical / Electronic Engineering
• Chemistry / Analytical Chemistry (Bachelor of Science)
• Industrial Engineering (Bachelor of Technology, Bachelor of Science)

What is the selection criteria?

• Grade 12, with distinction in Mathematics and/or Physical Science an advantage 
• Relevant Tertiary Qualification, with an average pass mark of 65%