MSc in Chemistry and Chemical Biology - Physical in Ithaca United States | Cornell University

The M.S. program requires completing 30 credit hours of study. While some students may finish within one academic year, most typically take longer. Given the varied educational backgrounds and career objectives of each candidate, we expect considerable variation in individual study plans and avoid imposing strict course prerequisites. However, we generally expect most coursework to focus on advanced chemistry and related disciplines. Your personalized curriculum will be developed in collaboration with the M.S. Graduate Program Director, potentially incorporating courses from different departments across Cornell University.

This program caters to individuals seeking advanced training in the chemical sciences while enhancing their research, analytical, and teaching skills. Research-focused students must demonstrate initiative by designing and executing their own projects, with the M.S. degree granted upon successful completion of a research thesis approved by both the student's advisory committee and the Graduate School. First-year students typically enroll in Chem 5110 during fall semester, which introduces diverse chemical research methodologies available within our department and university-wide.

Physical chemistry research integrates physics, chemistry, and mathematics to explore phenomena spanning biological immune responses, semiconductor surface reactions, protein dynamics, quantum-controlled chemical processes, atmospheric chemistry, and polymer electronics. Our investigations employ various advanced techniques including molecular beam experiments, NMR/ESR spectroscopy, scanning probe microscopy, flow cytometry, and multiple laser-based spectroscopic methods (Raman, nonlinear, femtosecond). Much of our physical chemistry research involves interdisciplinary collaborations through specialized centers focusing on contemporary areas like nanoscale science and energy materials.