MS Applied Chemistry - University of A

Program start date	Application deadline
2024-06-01	-
2024-09-01	-
2024-12-01	-
2025-03-01	-
2025-06-01	-
2025-09-01	-
2025-12-01	-
2026-03-01	-
2026-06-01	-
2026-09-01	-
2026-12-01	-
2027-03-01	-
2027-06-01	-
2027-09-01	-

About Program

Program Overview

The MS in Applied Chemistry program at University at Albany equips working professionals with advanced knowledge and skills in chemistry and biochemistry. Students choose a concentration in organic or forensic chemistry and complete a research-based thesis, preparing them for leadership roles in industries such as pharmaceuticals, environmental consulting, and forensics. The program offers flexibility for working professionals and international students seeking OPT extensions.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Objective: This program aims to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills in modern chemical and biochemical methods.
Overview: The program caters to working professionals who seek to advance their careers while balancing their studies with professional commitments.
Description: Students gain expertise in advanced analytical and research techniques, develop leadership skills, and learn to navigate complex business, legal, and environmental challenges within the chemical industry.

Outline:

Structure: The program requires the completion of 30 credits, distributed as follows:
Core courses (15-16 credits, depending on concentration)
Electives (3 credits)
Internship/Practicum in Applied Chemistry (8 credits)
Research Thesis (6-12 credits)
Seminar in Chemistry (2 credits)
Course Schedule: The program offers courses throughout the year, with different starting dates for each semester.
Modules:
Organic Chemistry Concentration:
Core Courses: Physical Organic Chemistry I & II, Experimental Methods of Organic Structure Determination, Advanced Organic Chemistry, Advanced Organic Synthesis.
Electives: Organic Chemistry Seminar, Internship/Practicum in Applied Chemistry.
Forensic Chemistry Concentration:
Core Courses: Advanced Forensic Chemistry, Advanced Forensic Chemistry Lab I & II, three additional courses from a specified list, Research Tool (Experimental Methods of Organic Structure Determination or Theory and Techniques of Biophysics and Biophysical Chemistry), Chemical Research (Chemical Research and Chemical Research Thesis), Seminar in Chemistry.
Recommended Electives: Forensic Drug Chemistry Internship/Practicum I & II, Introduction to Medicinal Chemistry/Pharmacology, Techniques in Forensic Science, Courtroom Testimony for Forensic Scientists.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods: Evaluation methods may include written exams, laboratory reports, presentations, and the research thesis.
Assessment Criteria: Students are evaluated on their understanding of theoretical concepts, their ability to apply knowledge to practical situations, their research skills, and their communication abilities.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods: The program utilizes a combination of lectures, hands-on laboratory sessions, seminars, and independent research.
Faculty: The program boasts a team of experienced and research-active faculty with expertise in various areas of chemistry, including organometallic chemistry, organic synthesis, crime scene analysis, and disease diagnostics.
Unique Approach: The program offers flexibility for working professionals by allowing them to substitute a portion of the research thesis with relevant work experience.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths: Graduates are well-prepared for leadership and supervisory roles in various industries, including:
Chemical and pharmaceutical companies
Environmental consulting firms
Law enforcement agencies
Forensic laboratories
Research institutions
Job Titles:
Forensic chemist
Analytical chemist
Biochemist
Industrial research scientist
Medical laboratory manager
Principal chemist
Production officer
Research manager
Research scientist
Toxicologist

Other:

Application Deadlines:
Fall: Rolling
Spring: November 1
Special Notes:
The program is designed to be completed in 2-3 years, depending on the student's pace.
The Organic Chemistry concentration requires an internship, field experience, or research component.
Students with prior felony convictions may face limitations in certain career paths.

Admission Requirements

Entry Requirements:

Academic Requirements:

A bachelor's degree in chemistry, biochemistry, forensic science, or a related field.
Students must also meet the general requirements for admission to the University at Albany.

Specific Coursework Requirements:

Applicants should have completed coursework in the following areas:
General chemistry (with lab)
Organic chemistry (with lab)
Physical chemistry (with lab)
Calculus

Additional Requirements for International Applicants:

International students whose native language is not English must have a TOEFL score of 80 or higher, or an equivalent score on an approved English proficiency test.
Applicants with less than 3 years of study at a university in the United States or Canada must submit a statement of financial support from a sponsor.

Additional Considerations:

Students with a GPA below 3.0 may be required to submit additional materials, such as letters of recommendation or a writing sample.
Applicants with strong academic backgrounds in other fields may be eligible for admission if they can demonstrate a strong foundation in chemistry through coursework or other relevant experiences.

Language Proficiency Requirements:

International students whose native language is not English must meet the language proficiency requirement specified by the University at Albany, which is typically a TOEFL score of 80 or higher, or an equivalent score on an approved English proficiency test.

Location

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