Chemistry M.A./M.S.

See University master’s degree requirements. Specific departmental requirements are listed below and in the graduate handbook.

Prior to initial course registration in the M.A./M.S. program, the student must take entrance examinations in those areas of chemistry represented in the student’s previous coursework. Any three of these examinations must be passed by the end of the first three academic terms of residence.

The candidate must complete a minimum of 45 credits in approved graduate courses. Of these, 6 credits of coursework must be outside of the major area of interest but within the Department of Chemistry. All students participate in a one-term course entitled Seminar Preparation as well as present to the department one seminar on an acceptable topic. For the M.A., if the student has not successfully completed two academic years of German, Russian, or French at the undergraduate level, the student must show competence by examination.

Each candidate for the M.S. degree in chemistry must complete a thesis. The thesis, an experimental or theoretical research project resulting in an original contribution to chemical knowledge, must be defended in an oral examination. The examination is not restricted to the thesis material alone but may cover any aspect of chemistry or related fields.