Program Overview
Marquette University's Chemistry graduate program offers MS and PhD degrees with a focus on research and hands-on experience. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, flexible curriculum, and close faculty mentorship. Graduates pursue successful careers in academia, industry, and government, with a high placement rate and competitive starting salaries.
Program Outline
Master's and PhD in Chemistry at Marquette University
Degree Overview:
The Department of Chemistry at Marquette University offers graduate programs leading to Master of Science (MS) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees. The program encompasses a broad spectrum of fields, including analytical, biochemistry, inorganic, organic, polymer, and physical chemistry, as well as chemical physics.
Objectives:
- Provide students with outstanding research and educational opportunities
- Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Foster independent research abilities
- Prepare graduates for successful careers in academia, industry, or government
Program Description:
The program emphasizes hands-on research experience conducted in collaboration with a faculty mentor. Students have access to state-of-the-art research facilities and instrumentation. The curriculum is flexible, allowing students to tailor their program to their individual interests and career goals.
Highlights:
- STEM-designated program: International students are eligible for 36 months of Optional Practical Training.
- Research-intensive: Students begin research in their first semester.
- Faculty mentorship: Close collaboration with faculty members.
- Flexible curriculum: Part-time and full-time options available.
- Financial support: Scholarships, assistantships, and fellowships available.
Outline:
MS Program:
- Requires 30 credit hours
- Can be completed on a flexible schedule
- Includes research projects or essays about research literature
- Culminates in a thesis or non-thesis option
PhD Program:
- Requires 36 credit hours of coursework in the first two years
- Students join research labs and begin research in their first semester
- Advances to candidacy after successfully completing a literature seminar and research meeting
- Culminates in a dissertation
Subspecialty areas of research:
- Photochemistry
- Molecular spectroscopy
- Medicinal chemistry and drug discovery
- Materials chemistry and nanotechnology
- Organometallic, physical organic, bioorganic, polymer, and theoretical chemistry
- Chemical dynamics
Coursework:
The program's coursework varies depending on the student's chosen specialization. However, some examples of courses offered include:
- Advanced Analytical Chemistry
- Advanced Inorganic Chemistry
- Advanced Organic Chemistry
- Advanced Physical Chemistry
- Chemical Thermodynamics
- Quantum Chemistry
- Spectroscopy
- Biochemistry
- Polymer Chemistry
Assessment:
MS Program:
- Research project or thesis
- Oral defense of research
PhD Program:
- Comprehensive exams
- Dissertation research
- Dissertation defense
Teaching:
- The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, laboratory work, and independent research.
- Faculty members are actively involved in research and are dedicated to teaching and mentoring students.
- The program also offers opportunities for students to participate in teaching and outreach activities.
Careers:
- Graduates of the program have gone on to successful careers in a variety of fields, including academia, industry, and government.
- Some examples of potential career paths include:
- Research scientist
- Professor
- Chemical engineer
- Analytical chemist
- Materials scientist
- Pharmaceutical chemist
- The program is located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, which offers a vibrant cultural and scientific community.
- The program has a 90% placement rate for PhD graduates.
- The average starting salary for PhD graduates is $90,000.
Marquette University
Overview:
Marquette University is a Catholic, Jesuit university located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It is a nationally and internationally recognized institution with over 11,000 undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in 11 colleges and schools. Marquette is known for its commitment to academic rigor, innovation, and community engagement.
Services Offered:
Marquette University offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Admissions:
Application processes for undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, including special academic programs like study abroad, study in Washington, D.C., and summer studies.Academics:
A diverse selection of majors and programs across various disciplines, including arts and sciences, business, communication, education, engineering, health sciences, nursing, law, and dentistry.Libraries:
Access to Raynor Library and the Law Library, featuring extensive collections, archives, and digital resources.Research:
Opportunities for students to engage in research, with support from centers, institutes, and faculty awards.Athletics:
Participation in 16 varsity sports teams competing in the BIG EAST Conference.Alumni:
Membership in the Marquette University Alumni Association, providing networking opportunities, events, and resources.Financial Aid:
Support for students through scholarships, grants, and other financial aid options.Career Services:
Guidance and resources for career exploration, job searching, and internship opportunities.Student Life:
A vibrant campus community with numerous student organizations, clubs, and activities.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Marquette University offers a dynamic campus experience with a strong emphasis on community engagement and service. Students can expect:
A diverse and inclusive environment:
Students from various backgrounds and cultures contribute to the vibrant campus community.Opportunities for leadership and involvement:
Numerous student organizations, clubs, and activities provide opportunities for students to develop leadership skills and pursue their interests.A strong sense of Jesuit values:
Marquette's Jesuit mission emphasizes service to others, intellectual curiosity, and ethical decision-making.A vibrant city location:
Milwaukee offers a rich cultural scene, professional sports teams, and a thriving arts and entertainment district.Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong academic reputation:
Marquette is consistently ranked among the top universities in the nation, known for its academic rigor and innovative programs.Exceptional faculty:
Marquette boasts a distinguished faculty committed to teaching and research, providing students with personalized attention and mentorship.Career-focused education:
Marquette prepares students for successful careers with a strong emphasis on practical skills and real-world experience.A supportive and inclusive community:
Marquette fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment where students feel supported and connected.A commitment to service:
Marquette encourages students to engage in service learning and community outreach, making a positive impact on the world.Academic Programs:
Marquette University offers a wide range of academic programs across its 11 colleges and schools, including:
Klingler College of Arts and Sciences:
Offers a broad range of majors in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.College of Business Administration:
Provides programs in business administration, accounting, finance, marketing, and management.Diederich College of Communication:
Offers programs in journalism, advertising, public relations, and communication studies.College of Education:
Prepares students for careers in education, including teaching, administration, and counseling.Opus College of Engineering:
Offers programs in civil, electrical, mechanical, and biomedical engineering.College of Health Sciences:
Provides programs in health sciences, athletic training, and pre-professional health.College of Nursing:
Offers programs in nursing, including bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.Graduate School:
Offers a variety of master's and doctoral programs in various disciplines.Graduate School of Management:
Provides programs in business administration, including an MBA and specialized master's degrees.Law School:
Offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree and specialized law programs.School of Dentistry:
Offers a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree and specialized dental programs.Other:
Marquette University is committed to providing a transformative educational experience that prepares students to "Be The Difference" in the world. The university emphasizes the importance of service, leadership, and ethical decision-making, fostering a community of engaged and responsible citizens.
Admission Requirements:
Minimum GPA:
- 3.00 on a 4.00 scale
English Proficiency:
- Demonstrated English proficiency for non-U.S. citizens.
Academic Background:
- A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution or international equivalent must be completed prior to starting graduate school.
- One year of undergraduate physical chemistry is required (minimum prerequisite).
- An undergraduate course in the area of specialization (e.g., analytical, inorganic, organic) is required.
Additional Requirements:
- A completed online application form and fee.
- An up-to-date Curriculum Vitae.
- Personal statement outlining interests, research experience, and potential faculty mentors.
- Transcripts from all previous institutions.
- Three letters of recommendation.
- GRE scores (optional for the 2023-2024 academic year).
- TOEFL score or other acceptable proof of English proficiency (for international applicants).