The Ph.D. program in Chemistry is designed to train students as mature scientists capable of independent activity, i.e. capable of conceiving a research problem, planning and carrying out the necessary experimental work, properly interpreting the results, and advancing their knowledge by independent study. Traditionally, the Ph.D. degree is the mark of scholarly attainments and connotes a high degree of proficiency in a specialized field in addition to a wide breadth of knowledge of other fields. The program outlined below will assist the student in attaining the required scientific maturity, mastery of a chosen area of chemistry, and adequate proficiency in all other areas. The program also provides a means of testing the progress of the student.
Capable students can complete the doctoral program in four to five years.
Financial support is guaranteed for four years and is normally available to fifth-year students in good standing. The rules and information which follow are intended to supplement those found in the Graduate School catalog. Each student is expected to become familiar with the rules found in the catalog as well as those of this program. The student may elect to major in Analytical, Inorganic, Organic, or Physical Chemistry. Students interested in interdisciplinary areas should consult a separate document governing these areas.