chemistry related phd

PhD Program

Professor Wender discusses chemistry with his graduate students.

Doctoral study in chemistry at Stanford University prepares students for research and teaching careers with diverse emphases in basic, life, medical, physical, energy, materials, and environmental sciences.

The Department of Chemistry offers opportunities for graduate study spanning contemporary subfields, including theoretical, organic, inorganic, physical, biophysical and biomedical chemistry and more. Much of the research defies easy classification along traditional divisions; cross-disciplinary collaborations with Stanford's many vibrant research departments and institutes is among factors distinguishing this world-class graduate program.

The Department of Chemistry is committed to providing academic advising in support of graduate student scholarly and professional development. This advising relationship entails collaborative and sustained engagement with mutual respect by both the adviser and advisee.

The adviser is expected to meet at least monthly with the graduate student to discuss on-going research.
There should be a yearly independent development plan (IDP) meeting between the graduate student and adviser. Topics include research progress, expectations for completion of PhD, areas for both the student and adviser to improve in their joint research effort.
A research adviser should provide timely feedback on manuscripts and thesis chapters.
Graduate students are active contributors to the advising relationship, proactively seeking academic and professional guidance and taking responsibility for informing themselves of policies and degree requirements for their graduate program.
If there is a significant issue concerning the graduate student’s progress in research, the adviser must communicate this to the student and to the Graduate Studies Committee in writing. This feedback should include the issues, what needs to be done to overcome these issues and by when.

Academic advising by Stanford faculty is a critical component of all graduate students' education and additional resources can be found in the Policies and Best Practices for Advising Relationships at Stanford and the Guidelines for Faculty-Student Advising at Stanford .

Learn more about the program through the links below, and by exploring the research interests of the Chemistry Faculty and Courtesy Faculty .

Majors & Careers
Online Grad School
Preparing For Grad School
Student Life

10 Top PhD Programs in Chemistry in 2024

A PhD program in Chemistry can equip you with a range of professional skills and advanced knowledge in the field. With a doctorate in chemistry on your resume, you’ll be able to find prestigious jobs in research labs, industry, academia, or government.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary of chemists and material scientists is $79,760 , and jobs are estimated to grow by 6% over the next decade, in line with growth prospects for all professions.

Which of the best PhD programs in Chemistry is right for you?

Read on to learn about the best programs, including essential information like tuition, acceptance rates, and whether you can get a degree online or not.

Table of Contents

Top PhD Programs in Chemistry

1. massachusetts institute of technology.

PhD in Chemistry

Massachusetts Institute of Technology has been ranked first in the nation for Chemistry, so it’s no surprise that this is one of the best PhD in Chemistry programs. The program is flexible because students can choose courses based on their long-term research goals.

Courses include: Principles of inorganic chemistry, crystal structure refinement, and heterocyclic chemistry.
Credits: 48
Duration: 4 years +
Tuition: Full funding
Financial aid: Fellowships, teaching assistantships, and research assistantships.
Delivery: On-campus
Acceptance rate: 7.3%
Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts

2. Stanford University, School of Humanities and Sciences

Stanford University is one of the world’s leading research institutions with innovative and flexible programs. This chemistry PhD program is world-class with a cross-disciplinary approach, collaborating with various other departments and institutes.

Courses include: Advanced inorganic chemistry, organic polyfunctional compounds, and chemical principles.
Duration: 5 years
Tuition: Refer tuition page
Financial aid: Research assistantship, teaching assistantship, fellowships, grants, and loans.
Acceptance rate: 5.2%
Location: Stanford, California

3. California Institute of Technology, Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering

Caltech’s Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering is renowned for its large number of faculty members conducting leading research in chemistry, biochemistry, and chemical engineering. This chemistry doctoral program aims to develop students’ creative and original research abilities.

Courses include: Bioinorganic chemistry, organic reaction mechanisms, and advanced quantum chemistry.
Duration: 5.5 years average
Tuition : $56,364
Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, work-study, fellowships, assistantships, and loans.
Acceptance rate: 6.7%
Location: Pasadena, California

4. Harvard University, The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

PhD in Chemistry and Chemical Biology

Harvard University’s faculty in the Chemistry and Chemical Biology division includes several Nobel and Welch Award laureates conducting research in various areas of interest in chemistry. In this PhD program for chemistry, students can pursue interdisciplinary research in various institutes and research centers in the Boston area.

Courses include: Advanced organic chemistry, materials chemistry, and advanced inorganic chemistry.
Duration: 5-6 years
Tuition: Full funding
Financial aid: Scholarships, research assistantships, and fellowships.
Acceptance rate: 5%

5. Northwestern University, Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences

Northwestern University’s Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences emphasizes interdisciplinary thinking that is adaptive, flexible, and practical in the context of the modern world. This chemistry PhD program aims to provide students with a strong foundation in chemistry and valuable exposure to research projects important to wider society.

Courses include: Organic chemistry, physical/analytical chemistry, and biological chemistry.
Financial aid: Fellowships, graduate assistantships, and loans.
Acceptance rate: 9.3%
Location: Evanston, Illinois

6. Yale University, Department of Chemistry

Yale is one of the most acclaimed universities in the world, with a diverse student population, including 22% international students from a total of 115 different nations . This flexible PhD chemistry program allows students to choose their areas of study based on their research subjects rather than maintaining a rigid course list.

Courses include: Fundamentals of transition metal chemistry, bioinorganic spectroscopy, and organic structures & energetics.
Financial aid: Stipends, fellowships, and grants.
Acceptance rate: 6.5%
Location: New Haven, Connecticut

7. The University of Chicago, Department of Chemistry

The chemistry department was one of the University of Chicago’s first departments to be inaugurated and currently has a strong faculty in organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry, as well as interdisciplinary studies. This is also one of the most flexible Chemistry PhD programs in the country, allowing you to study from different departments as well as giving you the freedom to choose your areas of study.

Courses include: Complex chemical systems, chemical biology, and chemical dynamics.
Tuition : $63,936
Financial aid: Fellowships, research assistantships, health insurance, grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans.
Location: Chicago, Illinois

8. Princeton University, Department of Chemistry

Princeton University’s prestigious Frick Chemistry Laboratory encourages faculty and students to conduct collaborative and interdisciplinary research in the field. This doctorate degree in chemistry encourages students to pursue individualized studies and conduct original research in specific areas of chemistry.

Courses include: Advanced quantum chemistry, biophysical chemistry, and synthetic organic chemistry.
Tuition : $57,410
Financial aid: Assistantships, fellowships, work-study, veteran benefits, and loans.
Acceptance rate: 5.6%
Location: Princeton, New Jersey

9. The University of California, Berkeley, College of Chemistry

The University of California was founded with a vision for a better future and is well-known as a pioneer in various areas, including diversity and free speech. This graduate program offers three concentrations: physical chemistry, synthetic chemistry, and chemical biology.

Courses include: Chemical kinetics, coordination chemistry, and organic reactions.
Tuition : $14,476
Financial aid: Fellowships, teaching assistantships, research assistantships, grants, and loans.
Acceptance rate: 17.5%
Location: Berkeley, California

10. Cornell University, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology

Cornell’s Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology has a history of discovery and innovation and boasts Nobel laureates as well as National Academy Members among its faculty. The TATP (Teaching Assistant Training Program) is an integral part of this PhD program, and a satisfactory performance in this program is a mandatory part of the doctorate.

Courses include: Engineering general chemistry, principles of organic chemistry, and physical chemistry of proteins.
Financial aid: Teaching assistantship, research assistantship, fellowships, grants, stipend, and health insurance.
Acceptance rate: 10.7%
Location: Ithaca, New York

What Do You Need To Get a PhD in Chemistry?

To be admitted as a PhD candidate , you’ll generally need a master’s in chemistry or a related field. As part of the application process, you’ll typically need to submit academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, GRE scores, and a personal statement or research proposal.

Other documentation may be required depending on the program you want to apply for, so check the requirements with the admissions office.

Most PhD in chemistry programs involve a mix of coursework, which may cover chemistry courses and related sciences, and a research thesis or dissertation.

To earn your doctorate in chemistry, you typically also need to participate in seminars, pass oral and written exams, and complete a teaching assistantship.

Preparing for a Chemistry Doctorate Program

A PhD in chemistry is a technical, relatively-difficult advanced degree, so it’s important to prepare well to get the best results. Ahead of commencing, or even applying for the program, familiarize yourself with the latest developments and research in the field.

It can be a good idea to join professional associations, take advantage of other networking opportunities, and seek out extra-curricular activities in the field. Practical experience can also be very valuable, so try to work in a lab if possible.

Things To Consider When Choosing a Chemistry PhD Program

There are a range of chemistry doctorate programs offered by different institutions and covering several different concentrations. Before choosing the right program for you, it’s important to carefully consider your interests, passions, and career goals in order to decide on your preferred area of study.

From there, look for strong programs in this discipline with renowned faculty specializing in your area of interest.

Other key factors to consider include the following:

Mode of delivery: on-campus, online, or hybrid
School location, accessibility, and affordability to live in the area if you’re planning on studying on campus
Program costs, including not only tuition but also fees and other expenses
Financial aid options

Why Get a Doctorate in Chemistry?

A PhD in chemistry is one of the most in-demand and highest-paying PhDs . Graduates with a PhD chemistry are highly employable, with most finding roles in private industry. According to Duke University , from their 242 candidates, 118 were employed in business/industry, and Boston University also tells us that most PhD Chemistry holders are employed in the private sector.

The benefits of studying for a doctorate in chemistry include:

High level of prestige
Many chemistry PhD programs are fully-funded or offer access significant to financial aid
Wide range of job prospects in academia, research, and management
Access to senior leadership positions and opportunities to manage research projects

Jobs you can land with a PhD in Chemistry include:

Post-doctoral Research Assistant ( $52,672 )
Chemical Materials Scientist ( $130,008 )
Professor of Chemistry ( $94,914 )
Development Chemist ( $59,802 )
Director of Research ( $107,150 )

The tuition for a PhD in chemistry can range from $10,000 to $70,000 based on various factors, with public schools being much more affordable than private schools. On top of tuition, you also need to consider other expenses, such as fees, study materials, and living expenses. However, many chemistry doctorates offer scholarships, grants, and even full funding.

For most programs, you’ll take around five years to complete a chemistry PhD when studying full-time. However, it can take up to seven years or even longer in some cases.

What Skills Do You Gain When Doing a Ph.D. in Chemistry?

You’ll build a range of advanced skills as part of a PhD in Chemistry program, most notably:

Research skills
Communication skills
Critical thinking skills
Mentoring and teaching skills
Leadership skills
Organizational skills

PhD in Chemistry FAQs

How long does a phd in chemistry take.

A PhD in Chemistry takes five years to complete on average, though the duration can typically be anywhere between three and seven years.

Which Field of Chemistry Is Best for a PhD?

There is no single field that is best for a PhD in Chemistry. The best option for you will depend on your preferences, interests, and career ambitions. Common specializations include organic, inorganic, physical, analytical, and computational chemistry.

What Can You Do With a PhD in Chemistry?

A PhD in chemistry is typically considered the most advanced degree in this scientific field and opens up a range of positions in academia, research, and the private sector. Positions for graduates with PhD doctorates include lecturers, professors, research leaders, environmental scientists, and materials scientists.

Is It Hard To Get a PhD in Chemistry?

Given that chemistry is a highly technical field and a PhD is an advanced degree, it’s not surprising that a PhD in chemistry is an in-depth, involved, and relatively-challenging degree. There’s no denying that you’ll need a background in the field and a certain degree of dedication to earn your doctorate in chemistry, but it’s certainly not impossible with some hard work and a little passion!

Key Takeaways

A PhD in chemistry is a valuable, advanced degree that opens up a wide range of career prospects, including senior-level positions in research, industry, and academia. There are a number of high-quality PhD programs in chemistry offered by renowned institutions across the country, covering a range of disciplines and including both on-campus and online programs .

Be clear on your areas of interest and career objectives, do your research to choose the best program for you, and you can’t go wrong!

For more options, look at our guide to the best online PhD programs , or if you’re ready to start preparing your application, check out our ultimate grad school test guide .

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

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Chemistry, PhD

Zanvyl krieger school of arts and sciences.

Johns Hopkins University was the first American institution to emphasize graduate education and to establish a PhD program in chemistry. Founding Chair Ira Remsen initiated a tradition of excellence in research and education that has continued until this day. The Hopkins graduate program is designed for students who desire a PhD in chemistry while advancing scientific knowledge for humankind.

The graduate program provides students with the background and technical expertise required to be leaders in their field and to pursue independent research.

Graduate students’ advancement is marked by entrance exams, coursework, teaching, seminars, oral examinations, and an individual research project that culminates in a thesis dissertation. The thesis research project represents an opportunity for graduate students to make a mark on the world. Working in conjunction with a faculty member or team, individually tailored thesis projects enable students to think independently about cutting-edge research areas that are of critical importance. Thesis research is the most important step toward becoming a PhD scientist, and our program provides an outstanding base with a proven track record of success.

Graduate students make up the heart of the Chemistry Department, and the department strives to support students’ individual needs. Each student is carefully advised and classes are traditionally quite small. Multidisciplinary research and course offerings that increase scientific breadth and innovation are hallmarks of the program. In addition to academic and technical development, our department also offers several outlets for professional and social development.

Admission Requirements

Application materials include:

Academic transcripts
Three letters of recommendation
Statement of Purpose
The GRE General Test is required. However, this requirement can be waived for individuals for whom personal circumstances make it difficult or impossible to access the GRE General Test at this present time. If so, please let the Academic Affairs Administrator (information below) be aware of these circumstances, and the application will be given full consideration.
The GRE Chemistry Subject is Test is recommended, but not required.
The application fee is $75. However, fee waivers may be requested for applicants that have documentation showing they are a part of SACNAS, MARCC, oSTEM and many other organizations. To access the full list to see if you qualify, go to the Krieger Graduate Admission and Enrollment page.

Assistance with the application process is available. Candidates with questions about the application process, or requests for a GRE General Test waiver (or on other matters related to the application) should contact the Admissions Committee’s Academic Affairs Administrator ( [email protected] ).

There are no fixed requirements for admission. Undergraduate majors in chemistry, biology, earth sciences, mathematics, or physics may apply as well as all well-qualified individuals who will have received a BA degree before matriculation. A select number of applicants will be invited to visit campus to tour our facilities and interact with our faculty members and their lab members over a weekend in March.

For further information about graduate study in chemistry visit the Chemistry Department website .

Program Requirements

Normally, the minimum course requirement for both the M.A. and the Ph.D. degrees is six one-semester graduate courses in chemistry and related sciences. Exceptionally well-prepared students may ask for a reduction of these requirements.

Requirements for the Ph.D. degree include a research dissertation worthy of publication, and a knowledge of chemistry and related material as demonstrated in an oral examination. Each student must teach for at least one year.

Below is a list of the core Chemistry courses for graduate level students.

Chemistry Graduate Programs in America

1-25 of 325 results

MIT School of Science

Cambridge, MA •

Massachusetts Institute of Technology •

Graduate School

Massachusetts Institute of Technology ,

Graduate School ,

CAMBRIDGE, MA ,

Stanford University Department of Humanities and Sciences

Stanford, CA •

Stanford University •

Stanford University ,

STANFORD, CA ,

Yale Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

New Haven, CT •

Yale University •

• Rating 4.5 out of 5 2 reviews

Master's Student: The resources at Yale are outstanding. While some of the required courses are slow-moving and less informative, I do have more academic freedom in my second year to the program to take classes that I enjoy across all departments (including data science, statistics, computer science, and law). ... Read 2 reviews

Yale University ,

NEW HAVEN, CT ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The resources at Yale are outstanding. While some of the required courses are slow-moving and less informative, I do have more academic freedom in my second year to the program to take classes that I... .

Read 2 reviews.

New Jersey Institute of Technology

Graduate School •

• Rating 4.62 out of 5 26

Colorado School of Mines

• Rating 4.33 out of 5 9

College of Arts, Sciences and Education - Florida International University

Florida International University •

Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

Harvard University •

• Rating 4.56 out of 5 9 reviews

Other: I am Harvard Extension School student pursuing a master degree, ALM, in sustainability. I have achieved a 3.89 in this program so far and have qualified, applied, and accepted as a 'Special Student' in the Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. Through this School, I will be focusing my time at the John A. Paulson school of Engineering & Applied Sciences. Looking forward to wrapping up my final year on campus! ... Read 9 reviews

Harvard University ,

9 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Other says I am Harvard Extension School student pursuing a master degree, ALM, in sustainability. I have achieved a 3.89 in this program so far and have qualified, applied, and accepted as a 'Special Student'... .

Read 9 reviews.

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ •

• Rating 4.33 out of 5 3 reviews

Master's Student: The best part of the Princeton University mechanical engineering graduate degree is the excellent faculty that teach the courses. They are incredibly knowledgeable and also very willing to help students in office hours or in sponsorship of projects. The worst part of the Princeton University mechanical engineering graduate degree is the lack of structure for the graduate research program which can leave you feeling unsure on the direction of your research. ... Read 3 reviews

PRINCETON, NJ ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The best part of the Princeton University mechanical engineering graduate degree is the excellent faculty that teach the courses. They are incredibly knowledgeable and also very willing to help... .

Read 3 reviews.

The Graduate School at Duke

Durham, NC •

Duke University •

• Rating 4.8 out of 5 5 reviews

Current Master's student: The program is the best in the nation. It is the origin of the profession and it has helped developed it to what it is today. They seem to ver much involve alumni and are involved in your future. ... Read 5 reviews

Duke University ,

DURHAM, NC ,

5 Niche users give it an average review of 4.8 stars.

Featured Review: Current Master's student says The program is the best in the nation. It is the origin of the profession and it has helped developed it to what it is today. They seem to ver much involve alumni and are involved in your future. .

Read 5 reviews.

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Brown University Graduate School

Providence, RI •

Brown University •

Brown University ,

PROVIDENCE, RI ,

School of Arts & Sciences - University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA •

University of Pennsylvania •

University of Pennsylvania ,

PHILADELPHIA, PA ,

Wiess School of Natural Sciences

Houston, TX •

Rice University •

Blue checkmark.

Rice University ,

HOUSTON, TX ,

Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences

Evanston, IL •

Northwestern University •

Northwestern University ,

EVANSTON, IL ,

College of Arts and Science

Nashville, TN •

Vanderbilt University •

Vanderbilt University ,

NASHVILLE, TN ,

Washington University in St. Louis - Arts & Sciences

St. Louis, MO •

Washington University in St. Louis •

Washington University in St. Louis ,

ST. LOUIS, MO ,

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Public Administration Graduate Programs

Guarini School of Graduate and Advanced Studies

Hanover, NH •

Dartmouth College •

• Rating 5 out of 5 1 review

Alum: I had a beautiful life-changing experience at the grand Guarini School of Graduate and Advanced Studies. The Guarini graduate program MALS created so many beautiful opportunities in interdisciplinary learning. Guarini is well integrated within the College, which provides a unique world-class learning experience. Guarini went beyond my expectations and made this experience the best I had and will ever have in my life. The only thing I would like changed is having a GRAD diploma in Latin instead of English to keep up with College tradition. ... Read 1 review

Dartmouth College ,

HANOVER, NH ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says I had a beautiful life-changing experience at the grand Guarini School of Graduate and Advanced Studies. The Guarini graduate program MALS created so many beautiful opportunities in interdisciplinary... .

Read 1 reviews.

Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering - California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA •

California Institute of Technology •

California Institute of Technology ,

PASADENA, CA ,

College of Science - University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN •

University of Notre Dame •

University of Notre Dame ,

NOTRE DAME, IN ,

Physical Sciences Division - University of Chicago

Chicago, IL •

University of Chicago •

Master's Student: The masters in computer science at UChicago has an opportunity for students from nontraditional computer science backgrounds to take “immersion courses” to get up to speed before taking the masters level coursework, which is extremely inclusive programming. The program is also a top competitor and prepares students for professional careers. ... Read 1 review

University of Chicago ,

CHICAGO, IL ,

Featured Review: Master's Student says The masters in computer science at UChicago has an opportunity for students from nontraditional computer science backgrounds to take “immersion courses” to get up to speed before taking the masters... .

Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences

Los Angeles, CA •

University of Southern California •

University of Southern California ,

LOS ANGELES, CA ,

Cornell University College of Arts & Sciences

Ithaca, NY •

Cornell University •

Cornell University ,

ITHACA, NY ,

Rackham School of Graduate Studies

Ann Arbor, MI •

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor •

• Rating 5 out of 5 3 reviews

Master's Student: I was nervous about attending a prestigious school like The University of Michigan but once classes started I realized that I had made the right decision. Tuition is very expensive but I love my professors and I believe that I am getting the best education in the country! ... Read 3 reviews

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor ,

ANN ARBOR, MI ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I was nervous about attending a prestigious school like The University of Michigan but once classes started I realized that I had made the right decision. Tuition is very expensive but I love my... .

Graduate School of Arts & Sciences - Georgetown University

Nw Washington, DC •

Georgetown University •

• Rating 5 out of 5 2 reviews

Master's Student: The program is highly practical. The professors explain concepts in class and give us home works to submit on each topic discussed on a weekly basis. This enables us to grasp the concepts more. We are informed of the professors office time and so we can email them to make inquiries and get assistance when needed. We make presentations during class which train us to become more bold and be able to communicate the concepts easily. We are able to discuss and critic writings independently. We work on projects in groups of about 3-4 and discuss findings to the entire class and professor. We review research papers and make meta-analyses inform of class projects. The program is well structured and i am gaining skills. My worst experience is having to worry about Tuition and other related school bills. ... Read 2 reviews

Georgetown University ,

NW WASHINGTON, DC ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The program is highly practical. The professors explain concepts in class and give us home works to submit on each topic discussed on a weekly basis. This enables us to grasp the concepts more. We... .

School of Arts and Sciences - Tufts University

Medford, MA •

Tufts University •

• Rating 4 out of 5 3 reviews

Master's Student: Best: - Incredible colleagues, many of whom are working professionals in the field, all of whom are passionate & come from diverse backgrounds & bring a wide variety of life/ professional experiences that enhance the overall experience -One of the few DEIJ degree programs offered worldwide -flexible options for program completion -many passionate professors & deep learning opportunities -increasing program investment by Tufts, including 2 new FT program-specific professors Most challenging: -program has grown exponentially in the last several years & has experienced commiserate growing pains, including confusion about requirements, need for more faculty, and more opportunities for practice. Tufts is responding but needs to continue its investment. -Since the program is interdisciplinary, students in the DEIJ-L program often need to take classes offered by other dept's/ colleges which may have different requirements & DEIJ-L students may not get preference for registration purposes ... Read 3 reviews

Tufts University ,

MEDFORD, MA ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says Best: - Incredible colleagues, many of whom are working professionals in the field, all of whom are passionate & come from diverse backgrounds & bring a wide variety of life/ professional experiences that... -One of the few DEIJ degree programs offered worldwide -flexible options for program completion -many passionate professors & deep learning opportunities -increasing program investment by Tufts, including 2 new FT program-specific professors Most challenging: -program has grown exponentially in the last several years & has experienced commiserate growing pains, including confusion about requirements, need for more faculty, and more opportunities for... -Since the program is interdisciplinary, students in the DEIJ-L program often need to take classes offered by other dept's/ colleges which may have different requirements & DEIJ-L students may not... .

UCLA College of Letters and Science

University of California - Los Angeles •

• Rating 3 out of 5 1 review

University of California - Los Angeles ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 3 stars.

Krieger School of Arts & Sciences

Baltimore, MD •

Johns Hopkins University •

• Rating 4.53 out of 5 19 reviews

Master's Student: I have yet to enroll for Fall 2023 after receiving my acceptance letter due to a delay in my need-based financial aid from JHU. However the Homewood Campus in Baltimore is beautiful and my Student Advisor, Alexis has been extremely helpful in initiating my enrollment process and answering all of my questions in a timely matter. My intended Advanced Academic Program is the accelerated (2 semester), dual-modality, 40-credit M.S. in Biotechnology, Biodefense concentration. All of the anticipated course subjects are diverse and there's even a customizable core lab course on campus (at least until Summer 2024). I can't wait and I wish you all the best in your search for academic programs or professional certifications. ... Read 19 reviews

Johns Hopkins University ,

BALTIMORE, MD ,

19 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I have yet to enroll for Fall 2023 after receiving my acceptance letter due to a delay in my need-based financial aid from JHU. However the Homewood Campus in Baltimore is beautiful and my Student... .

Read 19 reviews.

Mellon College of Science

Pittsburgh, PA •

Carnegie Mellon University •

Carnegie Mellon University ,

PITTSBURGH, PA ,

The Graduate School of Arts & Sciences - University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA •

University of Virginia •

• Rating 4 out of 5 1 review

Alum: Very good in some areas, excellent in other areas, many academic choices available in all areas of study ... Read 1 review

University of Virginia ,

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says Very good in some areas, excellent in other areas, many academic choices available in all areas of study .

University of North Texas

• Rating 4.61 out of 5 127

Lehigh University

BETHLEHEM, PA

• Rating 4.42 out of 5 19

University of Houston - Clear Lake

HOUSTON, TX

• Rating 4.65 out of 5 68

Showing results 1 through 25 of 325

Best Chemistry Programs

Ranked in 2023, part of Best Science Schools

With a graduate degree in chemistry, scientists may find

With a graduate degree in chemistry, scientists may find jobs in laboratories, government agencies, research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, colleges and universities, and more. These are the best chemistry schools. Each school's score reflects its average rating on a scale from 1 (marginal) to 5 (outstanding), based on a survey of academics at peer institutions. Read the methodology »

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About the Chemistry Ph.D. Program

Ph.d. in chemistry faq's.

The Chemistry PhD program is designed towards developing within each student the ability to do creative scientific research. Accordingly, the single most important facet of the curriculum for an individual is their own research project. In keeping with the goal of fostering an atmosphere of scholarly, independent study, formal course requirements are minimal and vary among disciplines; advisor's tailor course requirements to best prepare the student for the chosen research field.

The Doctoral program includes the following concentrations, each of which has specific degree requirements:

Physical Chemistry : In general, the Physical Chemistry Graduate Program encompasses analytical, nuclear, biophysical, and theoretical chemistry.
Synthetic Chemistry : The Synthetic Chemistry Graduate Program includes emphases in either organic or inorganic chemistry
Chemical Biology : The Chemical Biology Graduate Program covers a range of research areas at the interface of Chemistry and Biology.

Research. A graduate student spends a good deal of time during the first week of the first semester at Berkeley talking to various faculty members about possible research projects, studying pertinent literature references, and choosing an individual project. New graduate students meet shortly after their arrival with a faculty adviser. From the faculty adviser the student obtains a list of faculty members whose research may interest the student. After visiting these and additional faculty, if necessary, the student chooses a research director, with the consent of the faculty member and the graduate adviser. By the end of the first semester most students have made a choice and are full-fledged members of research group. Students in the Chemical Biology Graduate Program will select their thesis advisor after completion of three-ten week rotations. Thereafter, all students become involved in library research on their projects and many begin actual experimental or theoretical work.

Independent Study. A student who chooses to specialize in physical chemistry is normally expected to take two courses per semester during the first year and one or two additional semesters of coursework sometimes during the second year. These may include topics such Quantum Mechanics, Statistical Mechanics, Group Theory, Interactions of Radiation with Matter, and many more. At the other extreme, a student specializing in inorganic chemistry will concentrate more heavily on special topics seminars and take fewer courses. The course offerings in the University are varied so that individual students have the opportunity to take other courses which serve their own needs. Such as, a student working on nuclear chemistry will probably elect additional graduate physics courses, while a student working on biophysical or bio-organic problems may take courses offered by the Biochemistry Department. Students in the Chemical Biology program will take courses from both Chemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology departments.

Seminars. Because of the size and diversity of the Berkeley faculty, there are many seminars on a variety of topics which students may choose to attend. There are regular weekly seminars in several major areas, including biophysical, physical, nuclear, organic, theoretical, solid state, and inorganic chemistry. These seminars are presented by members of the Berkeley faculty, as well as distinguished visitors to the campus. These seminars allow the students to become aware of the most important current research going on in the field. In addition to these regular seminars, there are several regular department seminars devoted to presentations by graduate students. One of the doctoral program requirements is that each student delivers a departmental seminar known as a graduate research conference during the second year. Individual research groups also hold regular research seminars. The format of these small, informal seminars varies. In some cases, graduate students discuss their own current research before the other members of the research group. On other occasions, the group seminars may be devoted to group discussions of recent papers which are of interest to the particular research group. In any event, small group seminars are one of the most important ways in which students learn by organizing and interpreting their own results before their peers.

Qualifying Exam. Sometime during the second year of graduate work at Berkeley, each student takes a qualifying examination. The examining board, a committee of four faculty members, is appointed to examine the student for general competence in the area of interest. The qualifying examination is centered around the defense of the individual research project. Upon satisfactory completion of the oral qualifying examination, the student is advanced to candidacy for the Ph.D. degree. After advancement, the student completes an original, scholarly contribution to science and writes a dissertation on the subject. Most students complete their work and received their degree within five years.

Teaching. An integral part of the graduate education at Berkeley is teaching. The department requires that each doctoral candidate assist in the instructional program of the department as a teaching assistant for two semesters during their graduate careers. The faculty regard the teaching experience as highly valuable for all graduate students, especially those who plan to teach as a career.

Financial Aid. All students admitted to our graduate program receive a stipend for the duration of study in the form of teaching and research assistantships as long as they are in residence and demonstrate good progress toward the degree. Students also receive full tution, health, dental and vision insurance. Most funds for this support derive from research contracts and grants.

For more information see the Berkeley Bulletin

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Survey of Ph.D. Programs in Chemistry

By Joel Shulman

How does your chemistry Ph.D. program compare to others in terms of department size and student demographics? Requirements for the degree? Graduate student progression and support? Developing skills that go beyond knowledge of chemistry? Answers to these questions and many others can be gleaned from the Survey of Ph.D. Programs in Chemistry recently reported by the ACS Committee on Professional Training (CPT) . Highlights of the survey are given here.

View the full report

The primary objective of the CPT is to facilitate the maintenance and improvement of the quality of chemical education at the postsecondary level. Not only does the Committee develop and administer the guidelines that define high-quality undergraduate education, but it also produces resources such as the ACS Directory of Graduate Education and publishes data on undergraduate and graduate education. Approximately every ten years, CPT fields a survey of Ph.D. programs. The latest survey solicited data from all 196 Ph.D. programs in chemistry and received usable information (base year, 2007) from 139 of these programs.

Figure 1. Size Distribution of Ph.D. Programs

Program size and demographics of students

The 139 reporting Ph.D. programs are divided for purposes of comparison into three groups of approximately equal size according to the total number of graduate students in the program: 44 small (defined as 0 to 40 total graduate students), 46 medium (41 to 105 graduate students), and 49 large programs (106+ graduate students). The number of students in Ph.D. programs ranges from 0 to 394 (see Figure 1) with a total of 13,280 students. Eighteen departments have more than 200 students, accounting for more than one-third (4,460) of the total graduate students in chemistry. The 30 largest programs account for almost 50% of graduate students. The average program size is 96 students (and 23 faculty), while the median program size is 67 students.

Of the doctoral students in responding programs, 27.4% are women, 5.2% are underrepresented minorities, and 42.3% are international students (Table 1). Small programs tend to have a higher percentage of underrepresented minority students (averaging 7.8%), while large programs have a higher percentage of women (28.5%) and a lower percentage of international students (37.3%).

Table 1. Demographics of Graduate Students by Program Size

Requirements for degree (table 2).

Of course, a doctoral dissertation is required by all Ph.D. programs. Most (71%) graduate programs require entering graduate students to take placement exams, although this requirement tends to be less prevalent as program size increases. The average program requires a minimum of 20 credits (semester hours, corrected for programs on the quarter system) of coursework, a number that does not vary significantly by program size. In addition to course work and dissertation, 96% of programs require at least one of the following: cumulative examinations (58%), an oral preliminary exam (54%), a comprehensive oral exam (50%), and/or a comprehensive written exam (31%). All four of these exams are required by 7% of programs; 17% of programs require three; 43% of programs require two; and 28% require only one. Large programs require cumulative exams less often and oral exams more often than small or medium programs. Only four programs (3%) require students to pass a language exam for the Ph.D.

Table 2. Requirement in Ph.D. Program

Graduate student progression and support (table 3).

The mean time to the Ph.D. is 5.1 years, a number that varies neither by program size nor by public vs. private institution (data not shown). Most programs place a limit on the amount of time allowed to achieve a Ph.D. (average of 7.8 years) as well as on the number of years of departmental support allowed a student (average of 5.9 years). More than 80% of students choose a research advisor within six months of entering graduate school. A significant number of programs either require or permit laboratory rotations before a final advisor is selected.

Monetary support for Ph.D. students comes from teaching assistantships more often than from research assistantships at small and medium programs, while the reverse is true in large programs. There is wide variation in TA stipends, depending on both program size and geographic location. Most programs have a range of stipends, which on average run from $18,000 to about $20,000 per year. Teaching assistants at larger programs are more likely to teach discussion (recitation) sections than those in small or medium programs.

Table 3. Student Progression and Support in Ph.D. Programs

Developing student skills.

In addition to chemistry knowledge and laboratory skills, it is important that all Ph.D. chemists develop skills in areas such as critical thinking, oral and written communication, and teamwork. Toward this end, 74% of all programs require students to create and defend an original research proposal (Table 2). All but six programs require students to make presentations (exclusive of the thesis defense) to audiences other than their research group; the average number of required presentations is 2.4, with little variation by program size. When asked whether any graduate students receive student-skills training outside of formal course work, 67% responded that at least some students receive specific training in communications; 59% in ethics/scientific integrity; 43% in grant writing; 37% in mentoring; 37% in intellectual property/patents; and 18% in business/economics. Students in large programs are more likely to receive some training in these skill areas than are students in other programs.

The data from this CPT survey provide a snapshot of graduate student demographics, requirements for the degree, and progression and support in chemistry Ph.D. programs. Survey results highlight similarities and differences among small, medium, and large programs across the country.

Dr. Joel I. Shulman retired as The Procter & Gamble Company's Manager of Doctoral Recruiting and University Relations in 2001 and is now an adjunct professor of chemistry at the University of Cincinnati. He serves the ACS as a consultant for the Office of Graduate Education and the Department of Career Management and Development and as a member of the Committee on Professional Training.

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PhD in Chemistry

The doctoral program in chemistry prepares individuals for teaching and research in academic institutions and for research in industrial and governmental positions. To be eligible for admission, a student must possess a bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a closely related discipline.

Learning Outcomes

Students are required to design, carry out, present, and defend an original work of research at the cutting edge of their discipline.
Students must demonstrate mastery of the subject material relevant to their graduate field of study and advance scholarship.
Students need to be able to identify areas where ethical issues may arise in their discipline, and articulate strategies for dealing with them.
Students are expected to be able to teach and promote their discipline at the undergraduate level.

Course Requirements

A doctoral student must accumulate 64 credits:

Four of these courses must be at or above the 600-level
Two courses acceptable for graduate credit in mathematics or natural sciences other than chemistry may be substituted for chemistry courses
The remaining credits should be PhD research courses (CH 901/902 PhD Research in Chemistry)

Courses completed with a grade lower than B– are not degree-eligible. The student’s major advisor or the Graduate Programs Committee may require that specific nonresearch courses be taken beyond the requirement. Of the nonresearch courses, appropriate courses will be dependent upon the student’s background and interests and will be determined in consultation with the major advisor. Students may petition to be excused from nonresearch courses on the basis of equivalent courses taken elsewhere.

Language Requirement

There is no foreign language requirement for this degree.

Qualifying Examinations

A student who wishes to be promoted to PhD candidacy must successfully complete an oral qualifying examination by spring of their second academic year. The oral qualifying examination is intended to test the student’s background knowledge in the subject specialty and the ability to think critically, independently, and creatively. Each student is required to compose a written research proposal describing their dissertation research project, and to defend the proposal in an oral examination administered by members of the student’s Dissertation Advisory Committee. The written proposal should define the background, objectives, significance, and plan of study for the research problem; a bibliography must be included. Recommendations to the department for advancement to PhD candidacy will depend on the results from the oral qualifying examination and on performance in coursework and research.

Dissertation and Final Oral Examination

The candidate shall demonstrate their ability for independent study by composing a dissertation representing original research or creative scholarship. A prospectus for the dissertation must be completed and approved by the Readers, the Director of Graduate Studies, and the department Chair/Program Director. The candidate must undergo a final oral examination in which the original dissertation is defended as a valuable contribution to knowledge in the candidate’s field. In addition, the candidate must demonstrate expertise in their field of specialization in relation to the dissertation research. All portions of the dissertation and final oral examination must be completed as outlined in the GRS General Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree .

A PhD student who leaves the program with a master’s degree must accumulate 32 credits:

At least 20 credits of academic coursework (five 4-credit courses)
Four of these courses must be at or above the 600 level
At least 8 of the remaining credits should be research coursework (GRS CH 903/904 MA Research in Chemistry)

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PhD Program

Chemistry PhD Program

The University of Pennsylvania is an internationally renowned research institution that attracts the best students from the United States and around the globe. The Graduate Program is designed for students who wish to earn a Ph.D. in Chemistry while undertaking cutting edge research. The program provides students with the necessary theoretical background and hands-on training to become independent and highly successful scientists. Graduate students achieve mastery of advanced chemistry topics through courses in different subdisciplines. Broad exposure to current research also occurs via four weekly departmental seminar programs and many interdisciplinary, university-wide lecture series.

Currently, faculty, students, and postdoctoral associates in Chemistry work in the fields of bioinorganic chemistry, bioorganic chemistry, chemical biology, biophysical chemistry, bioinformatics, materials science, laser chemistry, health related chemistry, structural and dynamical studies of biological systems, X-ray scattering/diffraction, NMR spectroscopy, applications of computing and computer graphics, as well as investigations of chemical communication and hormone-receptor interactions. Many research groups combine different techniques to explore frontier areas, such as nanomaterials applied to biology, photoactive biomolecules, and single-molecule imaging. Novel synthetic procedures are under constant development for targets ranging from super-emissive nanoparticles to highly specialized drug molecules and giant dendrimers, which are being explored, for example, as drug-delivery systems. The Research Facilities in the Department of Chemistry provide a strong technology base to enable the highest level of innovation. Graduate students are a driving, integral force at Penn Chemistry.

GW University Bulletin. Provisonal Edition. 2023-2024. Opens new window

Doctor of Philosophy in the Field of Chemistry (STEM)

Housed in the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, GW’s chemistry program fosters active learning through a research-based curriculum.

Beginning with advanced coursework and training in the discipline as a whole and one or more selected subdisciplines, our award-winning graduate students engage in cutting-edge research alongside expert faculty. Research areas include proteomics, and bioanalytical methods development, synthetic medicinal chemistry and drug design, combustion, battery chemistry and renewable energy sources, laser and molecular spectroscopies, nano- and biomaterials, modeling, coordination chemistry and novel inorganic framework structures.

The PhD program is designed to develop students who are able to plan and carry out original research in analytical, biochemical, inorganic, materials and organic or physical chemistry. Studies begin with core courses in focus areas, with students quickly moving on to join research groups that match their interests. Opportunities abound for research presentations, publications and award achievement. Collaborations with colleagues in medicine, engineering and nearby federal research laboratories—including the National Institutes of Health, Naval Research Laboratory and the National Institute of Standards and Technology—provide rich research experiences.

This is a STEM designated program.

Visit the program website for additional information.

Supporting documents not submitted online should be mailed to:

Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, Office of Graduate Studies The George Washington University 801 22nd Street NW, Phillips Hall 107 Washington DC 20052

For additional information about the admissions process visit the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences Frequently Asked Questions page.

[email protected] 202-994-6210 (phone)

Hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday

The following requirements must be fulfilled:

The general requirements stated under Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, Graduate Programs .

The requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Program

Pre-matriculation requirements

All entering students in graduate chemistry programs are required to take the American Chemical Society Graduate Level Placement Examinations, given by the Department of Chemistry, prior to matriculation. The four placement examinations (in the disciplines of analytical, organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry) are designed to cover the subject matter in the disciplines generally taught in undergraduate programs preparatory for graduate work in chemistry, and the results are used by the department to advise the individual student in planning a program of courses appropriate to the student’s background. All graduate students are required to participate in the seminar and colloquium programs. Upon consultation with course instructors, specific course prerequisites may be waived.

PhD program of study

Students develop a program of study in consultation with their doctoral committee, subject to the approval of the department’s Graduate Affairs Committee. The program of study must include coursework in a minimum of five graduate-level courses; at least three of these courses must be core courses as defined in the department’s Guide for Graduate Students and at least three must be offered by the Department of Chemistry. These course requirements cannot be fulfilled by achievement on placement exams. At least two graduate-level courses must be taken outside the student's subdiscipline and in at least two other subdisciplines/discipline. Equivalent courses offered by another university may be substituted at the discretion of the Graduate Affairs Committee.

General examination

Students must successfully complete the program's general examination, which consists of three parts: a 30-minute seminar, cumulative examinations, and a candidacy examination. To pass the general examination, students must present a 30-minute seminar covering topics from the literature and preliminary research results, prior to the start of their fifth semester in the program. They must also successfully complete their cumulative examinations and candidacy examination no later than the end of their sixth semester in the program.

Students also must present a 60-minute seminar on their research prior to the dissertation defense.

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Chemistry, phd.

The PhD program in chemistry is designed for students who have earned a bachelor’s or a master’s degree in chemistry or related areas and who wish to earn a doctorate in chemistry. Research spans a wide range of multidisciplinary fields, with strengths in clean energy, polymers, materials, medicinal chemistry, bioanalytical chemistry, and chemical biology. Our research programs draw from a strong foundation in analytical, organic, physical, and biological chemistry in a collaborative and diverse environment. Our student-focused approach to mentoring, a strong graduate student association, and faculty deeply rooted both in academics and industry provide a flexible platform for student development toward a large diversity of career paths.

Students typically take courses their first year while supported on teaching assistantships and achieve PhD candidacy in the second year. The primary emphasis of the program is on the completion of an original research project, its articulation in a well-written thesis, and its subsequent defense before the thesis committee through an open seminar followed by oral examination by the committee members.

Bachelor's Degree Entrance

Complete all courses and requirements listed below unless otherwise indicated.

Three qualifying examinations Annual review Candidacy Minimum of two seminars Dissertation committee Dissertation proposal Dissertation defense

Core Requirements

Dissertation, program credit/gpa requirements.

32 total semester hours required Minimum 3.000 GPA required

Advanced entry into the PhD program requires a master’s degree in chemistry or a related area. Graduate courses taken during acquisition of the Master of Science degree allow completion of the PhD program with fewer course credits. Other than the course requirements, which are specified separately, see the PhD program requirements for details.

Industry Entry PhD

This program is strictly for students who already have a master’s degree in chemistry or related area and have full-time employment at a company. The company must commit to all financial responsibilities accrued in obtaining the degree and allow time for the student to work on a PhD thesis in collaborative research with a company supervisor and one of our faculty members. Graduate courses in the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology are generally taught in the evenings to accommodate the fact that our students work in industry during the day.

Three qualifying examinations Annual review Candidacy Minimum of two seminars Dissertation committee Dissertation proposal D issertation defense

7 total semester hours required Minimum 3.000 GPA required

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2023-24 Course Descriptions PDF

This PhD program in Chemistry is designed for students who have earned a bachelor’s or a master’s degree in chemistry or a related field who wish to develop as independent researchers by engaging in cutting-edge research while working closely with faculty who are renowned in their fields.

The program of study includes some course work, but the primary emphasis is on the completion of an original research project, its articulation in a well-written thesis, and its subsequent defense before the thesis (oral examination) committee. The PhD program is a full-time degree program that typically takes five years to complete. Financial support (teaching assistantships or research assistantships) is normally provided for students throughout their period of study if they are found to be making satisfactory progress toward their degree in accordance with departmental and university guidelines.

Boston location ideally positioned in the heart of the Biotechnology Supercluster and Medical Hub
Students eligible for financial support in the form of Teaching Assistantships (TAs) or Research Assistantships (RAs)
Use-inspired research projects in materials, energy, and drug discovery are closely linked with industry via partnerships and collaboration
Departmental research funding is greater than $16 million, across multiple disciplinary foci
Home to the Barnett Institute of Biological and Chemical Analysis, a premier analytical chemistry institute, and the Northeastern University Center for Renewable Energy Technology
Bachelor’s and Advanced-degree entry are possible

Our graduates pursue careers within academia and beyond.

Paul scherrer Institute
Merck Research Laboratories
Bristol-Meyers Squibb
BioAnalytix
Lang Pharmaceutical Nutrition
Empiroko Inc.
Stanford University
Corden Pharmaceuticals
Warner-Babcock
Los Alamos National Laboratory

Application Materials

Application.

Application fee – US $100
Unofficial transcripts for all institutions attended (Official transcripts required upon acceptance of admission offer)
Personal statement
Three letters of recommendation
GRE General – recommended, but not required
Proof of English Proficiency for all applicants

Deadline for completed applications: December 1

Program Website

Request Information for PhD in Chemistry

PhD in Chemistry

The PhD in chemistry is primarily a research degree. It is awarded to students who have displayed competence in planning and conducting original research in the field of chemistry, demonstrated a broad familiarity with the science of chemistry, understanding in the application of the scientific method, and gained a thorough knowledge of their field of specialization.

Students build a solid foundation in all four core areas of chemistry (analytical, inorganic, organic, and physical), and a thorough knowledge of their chosen field of specialization. In the first part of the PhD program, students take at least one formal classroom course in each the core areas of chemistry as outlined in the course requirements below. The courses must be completed successfully (B- or better) by the end of the third semester.

Since original research is the primary requirement for the PhD degree, a student selects a research supervisor and begins research before the end the first year. The student and research supervisor then select two faculty members to serve as the student's Doctoral Research Committee. The Committee, in conjunction with the student's research adviser, take over the advisory function from the graduate committee and guides the student's work to promote development as an independent investigator.

Thus, in addition to research each student must complete the following requirements:

Service as a teaching assistant
Regular progress updates with a faculty Research Committee
A departmental seminar
Defense of an original research proposal.
Completion of a dissertation reporting significant work of publishable quality

Course Requirements

At least one of the following analytical chemistry courses:

Chem 141: Instrumental Analysis
Chem 142: Advanced Analytical Methods
Chem 144: Spectroscopic Methods of Analysis
Chem 145: Separation Science
Chem 146: Electroanalytical Chemistry

At least one of the following inorganic chemistry courses:

Chem 161: Advanced Inorganic Chemistry
Chem 162: Chemistry of Transition Elements
Chem 164: Bioinorganic Chemistry
Chem 165: Physical Methods In Inorganic Chemistry

At least one of the following organic chemistry courses:

Chem 150: Intermediate Organic Chemistry
Chem 151: Physical Organic Chemistry
Chem 152: Advanced Organic Synthesis

At least one of the following physical chemistry courses:

Chem 131: Statistical Thermodynamics
Chem 132: Chemical Kinetics and Dynamics
Chem 133: Quantum Mechanics
Chem 134: Biophysical Chemistry
Chem 136: Spectroscopy and Molecular Structure
Chem 138: Atomic Scale Structure and Properties of Surfaces
Two additional classroom courses, exclusive of research, must be completed satisfactorily by the end of the fourth semester

Doing a PhD in Chemistry

A PhD in Chemistry aims to prepare highly qualified researchers who are able to bring about new advances in the chemistry fields, including Chemical Engineering, Materials Science and Nanoscience etc. In other words, the core objective of a Chemistry PhD is to train researchers to join or lead research groups in universities, independent R&D departments other public or private organisations to meet the growing demands of society.

Browse PhDs in Chemistry

In-situ disposal of cementitious wastes at uk nuclear sites, capturing vibration to drive chemical change, development of fluorescent organic molecules for application in super-resolution imaging techniques, atomic layer deposition of novel nanolayer materials for solar cells, coventry university postgraduate research studentships, what does a phd in chemistry involve.

As a research student, your daily activities will largely depend on two factors: what your specific research project is and what training objectives your department sets.

In short, your daily activities will focus on advancing your project, such as designing and conducting experiments, preparing your thesis and attending conferences etc., all while achieving your training objectives. Although training objectives vary from department to department, you can expect them to include outcomes such as:

Ability to independently devise, plan and carry out scientific research projects.
Acquire the skills to integrate effectively into any R&D team in the chemical sciences and technologies fields.
The ability to advise public and private institutions from a scientific and technical perspective.
To contribute to the development of knowledge, the latest techniques and instrumentation in relation to your specific field of specialisation.
Ability to update their scientific and technical expertise autonomously and continuously.

Since almost all doctoral degrees in chemistry are highly laboratory-based, your research will likely see you using advanced and innovative equipment. Depending on your research topic and your universities facilities, you may have to opportunity to use, for example, a Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectrometer (NMR), Electron Spin Resonance Spectrometer (EPR), Infrared-Raman Fourier Spectrophotometer (FT-IR), Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Spectrometer (ICP) as part of your research.

Lines of Research

As with most STEM subject PhDs, the potential research themes encompassing Chemistry PhDs are numerous; a School of Chemistry may traditionally base their research around the areas of Physical and Theoretical, Organic and Biological and Materials and Inorganic Chemistry.

Academic staff at your particular institution will also have a broad range of research interests they want to pursue, and it’s common to find postgraduate research students involved in a range of projects that overlap with the other sciences.

The following list, whilst not exhaustive, should give you an idea of how many topics you could choose from as part of your doctorate:

Physical Chemistry,
Medicinal Chemistry,
Theoretical Chemistry,
Materials Chemistry,
Environmental Chemistry,
Structural Chemistry,
Biological Chemistry ,
Computational Chemistry,
Supramolecular Chemistry,
Organometallic Chemistry,
Atmospheric Chemistry.

Within these topics, there will be numerous specialist areas, one of which will form the central focus of your original research project. Examples of these specialist areas are:

Electrochemical Sensors and Biosensors,
Liquid chromatography and electrophoresis,
Basic and technological aspects of ceramic materials,
Organometallic chemistry and catalysis,
Asymmetric catalysis with metal complexes and organocatalysis,
Organic chemistry of metal compounds,
Synthesis of pharmacologically interesting compounds from chiral precursors,
Distereo- and enantioselective synthesis of biologically active natural products,
Photoactive molecules, macromolecules and nanoparticles.

How long does it take to get a PhD in Chemistry?

In the UK, a full-time doctoral student usually takes 3 years to complete their postgraduate study, while part-time study will usually take closer to 6 years.

Most Chemistry PhD students will first register as MPhil students , after which they will complete an upgrade viva after 18 months before they are officially registered as a PhD student. While your supervisor will provide mentorship, it’s ultimately the responsibility of postgraduate students to ensure their project and studies run on time and that they meet their agreed deadlines.

What are the typical entry requirements for a Chemistry PhD Programme?

Most UK universities require at least a 2:1 undergraduate masters degree or the equivalent grade from a university outside the UK. The degree must be in a field that is directly relevant or that can demonstrate your understanding of chemistry as a graduate student to the level expected of your prospective supervisor .

If English is not your first language, you will be expected to meet the English language requirements of the university where you applied to prove your proficiency. This usually means obtaining formal English language qualifications such as an IELTS, which, for research programmes, typically requires a minimum test score of 6.5 as part of your application.

How much does a Chemistry PhD cost?

As a postgraduate researcher in the UK, you should expect annual tuition fees of around £4,500 per academic year . Part-time students should expect approximately half this fee at £2,250 per academic year.

For international students, including now-EU students, the annual tuition fee is considerably higher; for example, the School of Chemistry at the University of Birmingham sets international fees at £23,580/year, equating to over £70,500 assuming your PhD project takes three years to complete.

As with every PhD degree, potential students will need to consider additional costs such as living costs and any bench fees that may be expected from their respective project or graduate school. It’s a good idea to discuss these with your potential supervisors before starting your postgraduate degree.

Funding opportunities

Several funding opportunities are available for a Chemistry PhD research project. The opportunities include:

Government funding eg. UKRI BBSRC , EPSRC, ESRC, GATEway for research degrees.
Industry funding eg. AstraZeneca, BP, NC3D, (UK) DSTL (USA), assuming the topic of your PhD study aligns with their research interests.
Independent funding eg. Grants or Specialist Institutes for research projects in Chemistry or other scientific fields supporting the PhD programme.
Research charities eg. Cancer Research, MacMillan.
University funding eg. Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) funding in the form of scholarships/studentships which cover tuition fees and, in some cases, also provide a living allowance.

Thesis grants may also be available to assist with the costs of writing and presenting your thesis at an overseas conference or workshop. These can be awarded directly by institutions or even employers as part of a career development scheme.

What can you do with a PhD in Chemistry?

A PhD degree in Chemistry opens up a wide range of career opportunities, both within academia and industry.

Many graduates follow a career path of becoming postdoctoral researchers, then lecturers and possibly a professor of Chemistry too. Others may see their PhD projects linking with industry partners of the university, naturally leading to opportunities there. This may see graduates going on to work within the chemical engineering field, becoming materials scientists or working within environmental sciences.

With this in mind, the most common career paths after a PhD in Chemistry are:

University Lecturer A university lecturer may teach and run courses but may also advise on undergraduate study or research, supervise students, and be involved in developing education programs.
Post-Doctoral Research Fellowship Most chemistry PhDs go on to secure a post-doctoral position within an institution such as a university, governmental department, research charity or a Commercial Research Organisation (CRO).
Environmental Scientist An Environmental Scientist conducts research to assess and control the impact of human activity on the environment.
Patent Attorney A patent attorney is often employed by organisations that develop new technology. They are responsible for drafting the application for patents to protect a client’s intellectual property rights, focusing on chemical compounds, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology products.

Cosmetic Chemist The Personal Care industry employs over 500,000 people in the UK alone and is an expanding market in the UK and global economy. The ingredients used in these products are often chemical compounds with large molecular structure, which is why they are typically developed by a chemist or chemist-biologist.
Process Engineer (Chemical Industry) A Process Engineer works on designing chemical processes and equipment to increase efficiency and profitability for an organisation. The role requires extensive knowledge of chemical engineering practices, operating conditions, instrumentation and mathematical techniques.

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Medical Chemistry and Drug Discovery (PhD)

YOU ARE BOUVÉ

Students doing research in Northeastern's Drug Discovery Lab

Design and synthesize novel biologically active compounds to address a broad range of social needs.

The PhD Program in Medicinal Chemistry and Drug Discovery educates and trains students in the design and synthesis of novel, biologically active compounds and in delineating their mechanisms of action using biochemical, biophysical, and pharmacological approaches.

Research specializations are available in synthetic, biochemical/pharmacological, and biophysical aspects of medicinal chemistry.

Woman doing research under a hood with test tubes

Faculty Research

Doctoral research in these specializations will relate to faculty areas of research, which currently include:

Substance use disorders and addiction
Neuropathic pain
Obesity and metabolic disorders
Neuropsychiatric disorders (psychoses, ADHD, depression, anxiety, eating disorders)
Neurodegenerative diseases

The main goal of the degree is to improve understanding of how the chemical and physical properties of drugs and their dosage forms affect therapeutic performance in healthy and diseased systems.

Students may elect to concentrate on courses focused on novel drug delivery systems; biopharmaceutics and pharmacokinetics; physical pharmacy and polymeric dosage form development; or drug metabolism.

With a strong focus on nanotechnology-based advanced delivery systems that address contemporary needs, these concentrations also give students the opportunity to study with some of the world’s top researchers.

Students have the option of performing summer industrial internships in some of the most prestigious Boston-area pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. Graduates of the program will also be well prepared to enter related PhD programs at the university.

Degree type: – Medical Chemistry and Drug Discovery (PhD) Study options: – On-ground (Boston Campus) – Fall semester admissions only – Full-tim e

Application deadlines: Dec 6

GRE: Required

F1 Eligible: Yes

Sample Curriculum

Pleas note that the curriculum is subject to change . For the most up-to-date and complete information, please refer to the university’s academic catalog .

Complete all courses and requirements listed below unless otherwise indicated.

Core Courses
Research and Dissertation

Complete the following repeatable course for six semesters:

PHSC 6300 Pharmaceutical Science Seminar

Required Core

PHSC 5100 Concepts in Pharmaceutical Science

PHSC 5102 Concepts in Pharmaceutical Science 2

PHSC 5212 Research Skills and Ethics

PHSC 5305 Professional Development for Pharmaceutical Sciences

PHSC 6213 Ethical Problems in Health Sciences Research

PHSC 6214 Experimental Design and Biostatistics

Medical Chemistry and Drug Discovery

CHEM 5626 Organic Synthesis 1

CHEM 5628 Principles of Spectroscopy of Organic Compound

PHSC 5450 Contemporary Approaches to Drug Design

Prequalifying Exam Course

PHSC 7020 Scientific Writing: Thesis Proposal

Qualifying Exam

PHSC 8940 Doctoral Training and Research

Proposal Preparation

PHSC 9681 Doctoral Proposal

Dissertation

PHSC 9990 Dissertation Term 1

PHSC 9991 Dissertation Term 2

PHSC 6810 Pharmaceutical Science Colloquium

Admissions Requirements

Applicants must have at least two semesters of undergraduate courses (or their equivalent) in each of the following:

Mathematics (including calculus)
Biochemistry
Organic chemistry

Please send all required documents directly to the PharmGrad Application portal . Here is additional information on how to submit documents .

Admissions Checklist

A baccalaureate degree or its equivalent in biology, chemistry, medical technology, pharmacy, chemical engineering or a related field.

A minimum grade point average of 3.0 or higher

Three letters of recommendation (academic and professional)

Personal statement of goals and expectations. Please see application for details.

TOEFL (International Students)

GRE scores are required

Official transcript from baccalaureate program and all college coursework. Applicants who have degree coursework from institutions outside of the United States must submit a credential evaluation. We require the iCAP WES package ( World Education Services, Inc. ) that evaluates your transcripts course by course.

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If you have any additional questions about the graduate program please contact:

Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences

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PhD in Chemistry

Known for Research

Chemistry is at the core of breakthroughs in disciplines as diverse as medicine, technology, nanomaterials and environmental science. PhD students in Clarkson University's chemistry program have the opportunity to participate in research and work alongside world-renowned faculty committed to sharing their knowledge.

Our faculty advisors educate you with the knowledge and skills you need to solve complex problems that impact society, ranging from smart materials to sensors, biotechnology and electronics. Graduate research is supported by federal agencies like the National Science Foundation (NSF), National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Department of Defense (DoD), as well as New York State and private industry.

Our small size encourages faculty to provide personalized training and exceptional mentoring focused on student success.

Why Earn a PhD in Chemistry From Clarkson?

We're driven by research at Clarkson. Our traditional strength is in areas such as colloids, surfaces, electrochemistry and analytical chemistry — topics underpinning much of the work done by our faculty.

Graduate students regularly publish their work in top scientific journals and have the opportunity to present research at national and international conferences. Professional organizations and student chapters are available on campus, including the American Chemical Society (ACS) and the Electrochemical Society (ECS). Students have access to a variety of professional development opportunities focusing on areas like research mentoring, entrepreneurship and leadership.

In our small department, faculty share their knowledge with students while collaborating on joint projects. Graduate students conduct research on projects spanning traditional core areas in analytical, inorganic, organic, biochemistry and physical chemistry, as well as interdisciplinary fields like materials chemistry, bionanotechnology and environmental sustainability.

Get hands-on experience with state-of-the-art instrumentation, like nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

Other instruments available for teaching and research include electron microscopes, UV/visible, fluorescence and atomic absorption spectrometers, mass spectrometers, X-ray diffractometers, particle sizers and thermal and mechanical analyzers.

Outside the lab, seminars and lectures expose students to the groundbreaking research conducted here and around the world. Our Shipley Distinguished Lecture Series has brought nine Nobel laureates to campus.

Curriculum Overview

PhD candidates in chemistry select a concentration from the following:

Analytical chemistry
Biochemistry
Colloids and surface chemistry
Environmental chemistry
Materials chemistry
Organic and inorganic chemistry
Physical (theoretical) chemistry

Sample courses include:

Advanced Bioanalytical Chemistry
Biochemistry & Biotechnology Lab
Biomedical Analysis and Instrumentation
Bioelectronics & Bio-nanotechnology
Colloids and Surface Science
Implantable and Wearable Bioelectronics
Sustainable Nanotechnology
Thesis, Dissertation and Special Projects
Biomaterials
Manufacturing Implications/Advanced Materials
Medicinal Chemistry
Nanostructured Materials
Colloids and Interfaces
Physical Organic Chemistry
Polymer Science
Special Topics/Colloids and Surfaces

The PhD in Chemistry consists of 90 credit hours beyond a bachelor's degree. These credits are taken through coursework, seminars and project work to fulfill all PhD requirements.

Requirements include the following:

A minimum of 90 credit hours, including no less than 24 credit hours of coursework, a six credit-hour seminar and a maximum of 30 transferred credit hours from a Master of Science degree (B grade or better) applied toward PhD degree requirements.
A minimum of three academic years of full-time graduate study or the equivalent in part-time study.
Satisfactory completion of the PhD candidacy procedure within two years of full-time study after admission to the PhD program or, for part-time students, before completing 66 credit hours. If the comprehensive examination is failed twice, the student is required to leave the program.
A written dissertation must be submitted by each candidate and defended orally as part of the final examination. For the final oral examination, a committee is selected by the faculty advisor and approved by the department chair and dean of the respective school. The committee consists of a minimum of five members. The members should include at least four Clarkson faculty of assistant professor rank or higher who possess an earned doctoral degree. At least one of the faculty members must be from a department other than the candidate’s major department.
Time limit: After the comprehensive examination has been passed, all work fulfilled specifically for the doctorate is to be completed within a period of seven calendar years.
Grading system: The grades of A+, A, A-, B+, B, B-, C+, C and P are acceptable for credit toward the degree. For graduation, an average of B or better must be earned in non-dissertation courses and seminar work.
PhD candidates in chemistry must: (i) Complete a minimum of six credit hours of CM900 and (ii) present three seminars as part of their degree requirements.

Faculty members are associated with the New York State-funded Center for Advanced Materials Processing and several other interdisciplinary programs on campus. Their research is supported by sources including grants from the National Science Foundation, as well as New York State and private industry funding.

Current areas of research include:

Analytical, electrochemistry and sensors
Biochemistry and biotechnology
Inorganic and solid-state chemistry
Nanotechnology and nanomaterials
Organic, polymers and soft materials
Physical and computational chemistry

A complete application consists of the following:

Online Application Form
Statement of purpose
Three letters of recommendation
Official transcripts
GRE Test Scores: the GRE requirement will be waived for spring and fall 2024 applicants.
For international applicants, an English proficiency test is required:
Minimum test score requirements: TOEFL (80) and TOEFL Essentials (8.5), IELTS (6.5), PTE (56) or Duolingo English Test (115).
The English language-testing requirement is not waived based on language of instruction, nor do we accept university certificates. English testing is waived if an applicant has a degree from a country where English is the Native Language. Click here to see the list of these countries.

PhD prerequisites: Applicants must possess a baccalaureate (BS) or a Master of Science (MS) degree in chemistry or a related major (e.g., materials science, biochemistry, biophysics, environmental science or a similar discipline).

Applicants must have also completed the following minimum college course preparation:

Introductory chemistry courses, including general chemistry.
Specialized classes, including:
Inorganic chemistry
Organic chemistry
Physical chemistry.
Basic training in mathematics and physics.

Small Sensation

In many communities around the world, people have no way of knowing whether the water they rely on is safe. One Clarkson PhD student is working to build small, inexpensive sensors that can alert residents to hazards before it's too late.

Career Possibilities

Clarkson's emphasis on research allows you to focus on an area of chemistry where you want to make an immediate impact. After defending your dissertation, you can choose from career paths in:

Biotechnology
Forensic labs
Industry (e.g., electronics, environmental, healthcare, energy or law)
Research and development
State and federal agencies

Clarkson's faculty have extensive ties to the chemical and advanced materials industries. These relationships can result in opportunities for technology transfer and jobs. Some of the places our alumni work include:

Applied Materials
Abbott Diabetes Care
AireSun Global
CFD Research
Ferro Corporation
Ford Motor Company
Ichor Therapeutics, Inc.
Lydall Performance Materials
Saint-Gobain
Siemens Healthineers

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| STEM OPT Eligible

Graduate Admissions Email: [email protected] Phone: 518-631-9831

Interested in learning more about the PhD in Chemistry at Clarkson? Contact the Office of Graduate Admissions today with your questions.

100% Graduate Placement Rate - Program Specific

Destination: Anywhere

Next-generation sensors. Biotech product development. Building biobatteries for the military. Students in Clarkson's PhD program in chemistry come from everywhere — and can go anywhere.

See Where our Alumni End Up

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Take the next step.

A PhD in Chemistry from Clarkson can lead to careers in fields as diverse as healthcare, biotech and pharmaceuticals. Ask us for more information today.

Chemistry Department

About the graduate program.

The degree leading to a Ph.D. in Chemistry is awarded as the result of the demonstration of originality and scholarly achievement. It demands intensive specialization in one field as well as broad knowledge of related areas.

Course requirements are intended to achieve two basic goals. 1) Acquisition of background knowledge. There is a central core of material that is basic for all well-trained chemists. Therefore, graduate students are initially expected to develop or demonstrate knowledge of an appropriate one-semester course in each of the areas of organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, biochemistry, physical chemistry, and quantum chemistry. 2) Continued scholarly growth. Graduate students are expected to take one course or its equivalent every semester. This may be a regular advanced course in chemistry or a related discipline, a seminar, or a tutorial designed to meet the special needs of an individual student.

Progress examinations are given multiple times each academic year. Based on articles in the current literature, these examinations are designed to encourage graduate students to keep up with the latest developments in chemistry. In addition, they are a valuable tool for monitoring the expected steady growth of a student's ability to read the chemical literature critically as well as identifying any areas where he or she is deficient.

Proposal writing is one of the most important parts of the entire graduate program in chemistry. Writing scientific proposals teaches evaluation of the literature, integration of knowledge from several areas, formulation of scientific questions, design of a research project to answer those questions, scientific writing and the defense of a project proposal.

Teaching skills and assisting duties are given to each students as a means of developing communication skills. As these develop, more responsible and demanding tasks will be assigned whenever possible. Students are expected to assist in courses for at least one year.

A one-hour seminar talk is expected of each student at least once a year beginning in their second year.

The thesis research and dissertation is an original contribution worthy of publication and is the single most important requirement. Finally, the candidate defends the thesis before his/her committee and then presents a final seminar to the department.

Further details about the graduate program structure and requirements are available here: Graduate Handbook

To learn more about applying to the graduate program, refer to this overview of the application process . *There is no application fee*

PROGRAM DETAILS

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2024 Norma Stoddart Award for Exemplary Citizenship and Excellence in Graduate Research

Posted on April 3, 2024

On March 22, 2024, alumna Dr. Ashley Shin (Ph.D. ’23, Caram group), currently a postdoctoral fellow at the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light at Erlangen, Germany, was presented with the 2024 Norma Stoddart Award for Exemplary Citizenship and Excellence at Graduate Research. Nobel Laureate and UCLA Emeritus Professor of Chemistry Sir Fraser Stoddart visited UCLA, accompanied by his daughter Dr. Fiona McCubbin (also a chemist), to introduce the life of Norma Stoddart and to present Shin with the award.

Stoddart spoke at length about his remarkable late wife, Dr. Norma Agnes Stoddart , whom the prize honors. In his introduction of Stoddart, Professor Ken Houk said, “Norma was a wonderful and important presence – Fraser’s secret weapon!” Stoddart told about her upbringing and many academic achievements, and noted that in addition to being his editor during his Nobel Prize-winning research at UCLA, she was “his harshest critic” but also most valuable advisor.

Stoddart’s talk was followed by Shin’s research lecture. She was introduced by her former thesis advisor, Professor Justin Caram, who described the remarkable impact Shin had on his group and UCLA, not only through her inquisitiveness and powerhouse initiative but also her unwavering commitment to helping graduate and undergraduate students in the community. He said that he expects that Shin will continue to make a significant impact moving forward in her career. “The greatest pleasure of this job is that your impact is magnified exponentially by the small influence you have on the careers of your amazing students,” Caram said.

After Shin’s lecture, Stoddart presented her with the 2024 Norma Stoddart Award. Shin’s father Dr. Inho Shin attended the events, which were held in the department’s Dongwon Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall in the Mani L. Bhaumik Collaboratory in Young Hall.

Select photos can be viewed below and a photo gallery can be viewed here .

About Dr. Ashley Shin

After completing her undergraduate studies in chemistry and computer science at Washington University in St. Louis in 2017, Shin conducted post-baccalaureate research at Oxford University with Professor Mark Brouard and at the University of California, San Diego with Professor Robert Continetti. She joined UCLA’s chemistry program in 2018, working with Professor Justin Caram, and quickly established herself as a leader through her passion and interest in experimental physical chemistry and her dedication to science communication and outreach to underrepresented groups in physical sciences. In addition to her research activities at UCLA, Shin also supervised multiple undergraduate and summer students, with whom she published multiple papers. Notably, she was the co-founder of Quantum Computing Student Association ( QCSA ), which continues to promote student engagement in quantum information science at UCLA. In recognition of her contributions, Shin received the prestigious Charles E and Sue K Young Graduate Student Fellowship Award for 2022-23. After graduating, she joined the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light as a Postdoctoral Researcher working with Professor Vahid Sandoghdar on single molecule spectroscopy and quantum optics.

Shin’s close friend and fellow chemistry graduate student Zerina Mehmedović (Schwartz group) was quick to sing Shin’s praises at the reception following her lecture. “Ashley is beyond deserving of this award,” Mehmedović said. “She is an incredible leader and her drive and determination are inspiring. Ashley completed her Ph.D. with distinction, mentored numerous students in and out of the Caram group, and demonstrated exceptional leadership. Her initiative in establishing a quantum information science group exemplifies her innovative spirit. Ashley’s relentless pursuit of excellence and willingness to explore new fields make her an ideal candidate for future success as a principal investigator. She actively wants to be a better scientist and has always made great strides in doing so. I am honored to call her my best friend and proud of all her accomplishments. I know this is just one of many.”

About the Norma Stoddart Award for Exemplary Citizenship and Excellence in Graduate Research Established in 2004, the award is open to all current and recently graduated research students and fellows in the UCLA Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry. Selections are made by a committee of graduate students within the department. Recipients are chosen for their outstanding science, service and humanity – the same qualities that Norma brought to UCLA. Since 2012, Stoddart has returned to UCLA each year (except during the pandemic) to present the prize at the Norma Stoddart Prize lecture.

Previous Stoddart Prize recipients are Prof. Marco Messina , University of Delaware, Dr. Janice Lin , The Mark Foundation for Cancer Research (2019), Dr. Nako Nakatsuka , ETH Zürich (2018), Dr. Liana Hie, Yale, and Dr. Christian Beren , Colorado School of Mines (2017), Dr. Steven Lopez , Harvard (2016), Dr. Alexander Patananan , Amgen and Prof. Jessica Wang, UC Merced (2015); Prof. Jessica R. Kramer , University of Utah (2014); Dr. Sarah M. Bronner, Maze Therapeutics (2013); Dr. Gregory B. Kuzmanich, Honeywell UOP (2012). (The prize was not awarded in 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid 19 pandemic.)

Photos and article by Penny Jennings, UCLA Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, [email protected].

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PhD Program

10 Top PhD Programs in Chemistry in 2024

Top PhD Programs in Chemistry

2. Stanford University, School of Humanities and Sciences

3. California Institute of Technology, Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering

4. Harvard University, The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

5. Northwestern University, Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences

6. Yale University, Department of Chemistry

7. The University of Chicago, Department of Chemistry

8. Princeton University, Department of Chemistry

9. The University of California, Berkeley, College of Chemistry

10. Cornell University, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology

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Chemistry, PhD

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Survey of Ph.D. Programs in Chemistry

Figure 1. Size Distribution of Ph.D. Programs

Program size and demographics of students

Table 1. Demographics of Graduate Students by Program Size

Table 2. Requirement in Ph.D. Program

Table 3. Student Progression and Support in Ph.D. Programs

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