Program Overview
This doctoral program in Chemistry prepares students for advanced research and careers in various fields, including chemical research, teaching, and industry. It requires 60 credit hours, including research, and involves coursework, original research, a dissertation, and teaching experience. The program's unique approach includes a mentoring committee that provides guidance and support throughout the student's journey.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Objective:
Prepare students for advanced study and research in chemistry, as well as careers in chemical research, teaching, medicine, environmental science, or industry.
Program Description:
This doctoral program requires a minimum of 60 credit hours, including research hours. Students demonstrate proficiency in biochemistry, organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry. They conduct original research and write a dissertation. Students also attend seminars and teach as teaching assistants.
Outline:
Coursework
Research
Comprehensive Examination
Dissertation Proposal
Dissertation
Assessment:
Comprehensive Examination
- Writing an original research proposal
- Oral defense evaluated by student's committee
Dissertation Proposal
- Written component submitted to Comprehensive Examination committee and presented as a seminar
- Oral defense before the Comprehensive Examination Committee
Dissertation
- One copy submitted upon completion of research
Teaching:
Teaching Assistantships:
Available to qualified applicants
Faculty:
The Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry faculty provide instruction and supervision for the program.
Unique Approaches:
Comprehensive Exam Committee:
Also serves as a mentoring committee, meeting with students each spring semester to review progress and provide recommendations.
Careers:
The Ph.D. in Chemistry prepares graduates for advanced study and research in Chemistry, and for careers in the chemical industry, academia, government, and non-profit organizations.
University of Missouri St. Louis
Overview:
University of Missouri St. Louis (UMSL) is a public research university located in St. Louis, Missouri. It is the largest university in the St. Louis metropolitan area and boasts a diverse student body. UMSL offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and professional programs, with a focus on affordability and accessibility.
Services Offered:
UMSL provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
Academic advising, tutoring, and writing centers.Career Services:
Career counseling, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.Health, Counseling, and Disability Access:
Counseling services, health services, and disability support.Residential Life:
On-campus housing options and residential life programs.Student Involvement:
Clubs, organizations, and volunteer opportunities.Veterans Services:
Support and resources for veteran students.Student Life and Campus Experience:
UMSL offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a variety of activities, including:
Athletics:
UMSL is home to the Tritons, who compete in NCAA Division II athletics.Performing Arts:
The Touhill Performing Arts Center hosts a variety of performances and events.Student Organizations:
Over 200 student organizations cater to diverse interests.Campus Events:
UMSL hosts numerous events throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and festivals.Key Reasons to Study There:
Affordability:
UMSL is ranked #1 in Missouri for affordability.Accessibility:
UMSL offers a variety of flexible learning options, including online and evening programs.Research Opportunities:
UMSL is a research-intensive university with a strong focus on community engagement.Location:
UMSL is located in the heart of St. Louis, providing access to a vibrant city and a wealth of cultural and historical attractions.Alumni Network:
UMSL has a large and active alumni network, providing valuable connections for students.Academic Programs:
UMSL offers over 50 undergraduate degrees and numerous graduate programs across a variety of disciplines, including:
Arts and Sciences:
Biology, Chemistry, English, History, Mathematics, Psychology, and more.Business Administration:
Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Management, and more.Education:
Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Special Education, and more.Engineering:
Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and more.Nursing:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).Optometry:
Doctor of Optometry (OD).Social Work:
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW).Other:
UMSL is committed to transforming its campus and the surrounding region through strategic initiatives. The university is investing in new facilities and programs to enhance the student experience and contribute to the economic and social well-being of the St. Louis community.
Entry Requirements:
Individuals with at least the equivalent of the B.A. degree in the natural sciences may be admitted to the Graduate School as candidates for the M.S. degree or as precandidates for the Ph.D. degree in chemistry. A student in the M.S. program may request to transfer to the Ph.D. program by petition to the department. The department admissions committee considers applicants' grade point averages and normally requires above-average performance in all areas of chemistry as well as physics and mathematics, or other evidence of high aptitude for graduate work in chemistry. Applicants' GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and academic programs are also considered. In some cases the committee may require successful completion of undergraduate course work as a condition of enrollment as a regular student. Students with bachelor's degrees in fields other than chemistry may be admitted to pursue graduate studies in chemistry, but they must make up background deficiencies, usually by taking undergraduate course work.