The Ph.D. is a degree earned primarily by independent research in collaboration with one or more faculty members. A relatively modest amount of graded coursework assures a thorough grounding in the fundamentals of the chosen field, as well as breadth of knowledge in the chemical sciences.
Short courses covering special topics are available during the summers.
Ziggy Uibel leaves Bagley Hall after spending a day in lab with Professor Martin Gouterman. Ziggy discovered and investigated the induction effect showing that when certain paints are illuminated with ultraviolet light, the intensity of the luminescence rises over time. In addition, students often take courses in related areas such as biochemistry, physics, mathematics, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, genetics, medicinal chemistry, and various branches of engineering. Interdisciplinary graduate degrees are possible and are carefully planned with interested faculty. Advisers Students are encouraged to schedule private meetings with faculty soon after classes start to learn more about research being conducted in the department.