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The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry provides graduate programs culminating in Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees. Additionally, the department contributes to the interdisciplinary Ph.D. program in Cellular and Molecular Biology.
During their initial year, incoming graduate students complete diagnostic assessments covering chemistry, biochemistry, and key subdisciplines including analytical, inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry. These evaluations assist the graduate progress committee in designing personalized academic plans for each student's first year.
Advanced coursework and research explore chemical, biochemical, and molecular biological processes across plant, animal, insect, and microbial systems. Students choose their specialization based on personal interests. M.S. candidates typically finish required courses within 12-18 months, while Ph.D. candidates complete theirs in about two years, dedicating subsequent years exclusively to thesis work. On average, students complete their M.S. in three years and their Ph.D. in approximately five years.