PhD in Chemistry

Class Profile

Class Size

25

Average Age

27

Average Work Experience

2 Years

Diversity

California:

20%

Florida:

5%

Illinois:

4%

Texas:

10%

New York:

30%

Others:

31%

Career Outcomes

Median Earnings After Graduation

$1,10,000 / year

Top recruiters

Abbott Laboratories

Eli Lilly and Company

Pfizer

AstraZeneca

GlaxoSmithKline

Roche

Novartis

AbbVie

Sanofi

Dow Chemical

Mitsubishi Chemical

FAQs

• What is the focus and research environment of the program?
  
  The department is known for cutting-edge research across all major chemistry disciplines, including bioinorganic, bioorganic, biophysical, chemical physics, and nanotechnology. Students are expected to engage in independent research, present findings, and contribute to the advancement of chemical science.
• What are the statement of purpose requirements?
  
  Applicants must address four areas: Scientific Goals (motivation, research interests, alignment with at least three faculty members) Research Preparation (prior research experience, publications, skills gained) Non-Technical Skills (leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, mentorship, etc.) Extenuating Considerations (optional: barriers or obstacles faced and how they were managed).
• What are the admission requirements?
  
  Applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a closely related field; a master’s is not required. Required application materials include transcripts, three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo), and an online application. There is no GRE requirement.
• What is the duration and structure of the program?
  
  The PhD is a full-time program, typically completed in four years (48 months). The curriculum emphasizes both broad-based knowledge and independent research, culminating in a dissertation and public defense.
• What are the main coursework requirements?
  
  PhD students must complete five graduate-level courses, chosen based on their interests and field of study, with guidance from their advisor. Courses can include intermediate and advanced chemistry, as well as related fields such as biochemistry, pharmacology, biophysics, physics, optics, and mathematics.