Graduate Program
We offer two Master's degrees, the MS in Chemistry and MS in Biochemistry. MS Chemistry students can specialize in organic, analytical, atmospheric, physical, inorganic or materials chemistry. MS Biochemistry students can focus in biochemical specialties such as structural biology, spectroscopy or bioorganic chemistry, or they can join one of the chemistry labs (many of which have projects with biochemical components). Both degrees are research-oriented and require the completion of a thesis as well as coursework. In addition to the graduate (500-level) courses listed in the University Catalog we also offer specialty courses that highlight the most cutting-edge research in areas related to faculty expertise. Other degree requirements include the presentation of a seminar on a current literature topic and a thesis defense seminar.
All of our graduate students are engaged in original research under the supervision of one of our faculty members. A description of the research interests of our faculty can be found here.
Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)
- Demonstrate basic knowledge in the following areas of chemistry: analytical, biochemistry, inorganic, organic, and physical.
- Organize and communicate scientific information clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing.
- Effectively utilize the scientific literature to research a chemistry/biochemistry topic or to conduct chemical/biochemical research.
- Work effectively and safely in a laboratory environment, including the ability to maintain a proper laboratory notebook and use advanced chemical instrumentation.
- Use computer technology for advanced chemical applications.
- Demonstrate the ability to work independently in the lab by designing solutions to problems or devising experiments to test hypotheses.