The Department of Chemistry in the College of Humanities and Sciences offers programs leading to the master of science and doctor of philosophy degrees. The programs provide opportunities for concentrated study in analytical, inorganic, organic, polymer or physical chemistry, or chemical physics. An important and distinctive feature of the department is close interaction between faculty and graduate students. This interaction, in an active and friendly environment, is designed to promote scholarship, develop experimental ability, and stimulate creative thought.
Graduate students work side by side with faculty members in small research groups.
A plan of study is worked out for each student to ensure a sound basis for research. First hand experience with instrumentation is an essential part of graduate study in chemistry. CHEM 510 Atomic and Molecular Structure CHEM 511 Chemical Thermodynamics and Kinetics Students in both the master's and doctoral programs are expected to participate in the departmental seminar program each semester and to present at least two formal talks in the seminar program. An acceptable research thesis and a final oral examination on the thesis are required. Full-time students should complete these degree requirements in two to three years.