M.A./M.S.Chemistry

Students will gain a specialized body of knowledge that furthers their academic development, proficiency in laboratory techniques, and professional growth.

Program Overview

Chemistry and biochemistry faculty have been recognized nationally and internationally for both stellar teaching and research. Students and faculty actively conduct cutting-edge research funded by the National Science Foundation, the U.S. DoD, and the National Institutes of Health. The department is also home to the nationally-recognized Xiphophorus Genetic Stock Center.

Course Work

The master of science (M.S.) degree in chemistry is a research degree that normally requires two years of full-time course work and research to complete. The degree requirements include 30 hours composed of 21 hours of lecture course work, three hours of departmental seminar, and six hours of thesis research support courses. The M.S. in chemistry degree includes courses in organic chemistry, physical chemistry, analytical chemistry, and elective courses. The master of arts (M.A.) in chemistry has the same credit-hour requirement as the M.S., but a thesis is not required.

Program Details

Current students are recognized at international, national and regional levels through scholarships and research competitions. Graduates have been very successful in pursuing professional careers in medicine, pharmacy or doctoral education.

Program Mission

The programs in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry cultivate students’ ability to:

• perform both qualitative and quantitative laboratory procedures
• synthesize, purify, and/or characterize a variety of chemical/biochemical compounds
• search the scientific literature and accurately cite published information
• accurately and thoroughly describe experimental procedures
• critically evaluate and report experimental results
• interpret and solve problems in chemistry and biochemistry

Career Options

Upon graduation, students will be prepared for a variety of career paths, including positions in the following:

• environmental scientist
• toxicologist
• forensic scientist
• science education
• pharmaceutical sales representative
• research assistant
• industrial chemist
• biomedical technician
• analytical chemist
• material scientists/technicians

Program Faculty

As teacher-scholars equally devoted to both roles, department faculty are committed to maintaining and improving the quality of student instruction and have established a research program that emphasizes student involvement. Faculty also focus on grant support and publications and have fostered a service component that benefits the department, college, university, profession, and community at large. Fields of research include: analytical, inorganic, organic, polymer, and physical chemistry and chemical education, as well as protein biochemistry, biomaterials, molecular biology, and biophysics.