Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

Our graduate offerings include four degree options and a graduate certificate. The Ph.D. and thesis-based M.S. programs emphasize research.

• The Ph.D. program (research-based) aims to prepare students for independent research careers in academia or industry. Moderate coursework requirements paired with our strong research programs offer many opportunities for students interested in a broad range of scientific inquiry.
• The M.S. program (research-based) increases the professional competence of the chemist beyond the bachelor's degree. Coursework, independent research and small group discussions are emphasized to achieve these goals. The Master of Science degree can be viewed as an important professional goal or as preparation for study toward the doctoral degree.
• The non-thesis M.S. program (coursework only) is to provide an alternate pathway for students to obtain an M.S. degree in chemistry that does not involve an in-depth research project or thesis. This degree option is intended for students whose current work responsibilities, or intellectual property issues with their employer, preclude the possibility of conducting the requisite research for the traditional research-based M.S. degree. School teachers, non-traditional students and employees of local industry who want to earn an M.S. degree for promotions and/or to meet eligibility requirements for teaching positions at regional community colleges may wish to pursue this degree option.
• The Green Chemistry and Engineering concentration, an affiliated Professional Science Masters program, is another 30-credit-hour M.S. degree option.

• The Green Chemistry and Engineering Graduate Certificate is a 12-credit program covering green chemistry, environmental chemistry, and green engineering principles and applications. Students develop skills in sustainable chemical processes, evaluating environmental impacts, and selecting safer chemicals. See the University Catalog for curriculum and requirements.