The program is focused on several areas of applied chemistry including polymer chemistry, biochemistry, environmental chemistry, hydrogen storage, spectroscopy, etc. Students entering the program must formulate a course of study and research in consultation with the graduate program director (or with the student’s thesis advisor once an advisor has been chosen).  Although course work and seminar presentation/oral exam are important aspects in the program, the student’s primary focus and devotion is on an independent research project in their chosen field.  To accomplish this objective students are expected to join a research group in their second semester in the program, but no later than their third semester. A PhD dissertation based on independent publishable original research must be defended in an oral presentation before the student’s PhD dissertation committee in a formal presentation once the research is completed.

Admission and Degree Requirements:

For admission to this program, applicants must show evidence that they have earned the bachelor’s degree in chemistry, or a related field, at an accredited college or university and possess the ability to carry out graduate work of high quality. Applicants for degree status should have a minimum cumulative undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 (on a 4-point scale) and a scholastic average of 3.00 in their undergraduate major.  If a student has a GPA less than 3.0, the student may be conditionally recommended for acceptance into the program with the recommendation of the Chemistry Department PhD program committee.

Applicants must submit a completed application package that includes the application, the application fee, three letters of recommendation by persons who are acquainted with their potential for graduate study in their discipline, one (1) official transcript from each college or university attended, and a completed essay.  Official scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or its equivalent will be required during matriculation.  The test scores must not be more than five years old.  For foreign students, the official score of TOEFL will be required. The test score must be no more than 2 years old.  The Chemistry Department PhD program committee will review and recommend for approval/disapproval all applications to the PhD program.  Graduate assistantships and tuition waivers are available for well qualified applicants.

The best way to find out more about us is to visit our campus.  Call us and we’ll arrange for you to visit the Department of Chemistry.  To arrange a campus visit, contact the Chemistry Department at 302-857-6530.