ÌÇÐÄVlog

The Master of Science in Chemistry exposes students to numerous areas of chemistry, including analytical, atmospheric, inorganic, organic, materials, physical, educational and polymer chemistry. The curriculum prepares students for the research and practical application of chemistry necessary to address the challenges facing mankind in the modern world. Faculty members are active participants in the environmental engineering and biomedical science programs; others are working with physicists and biologists in areas such as atmospheric science, biochemistry, and biophysical chemistry.

The chemistry department strives to maintain a community of research scholars – faculty, postdoctoral fellows, graduate and undergraduate students – that is large enough to provide diverse experiences within chemistry, yet small enough to provide each student with individualized attention. Both full- and part-time study are available.

Program Deadlines

The deadlines below are the dates by which applications must be submitted and all application requirements received.

• Fall (Domestic) – August 1
• Fall (International) – May 1
• Spring (Domestic) – November 1
• No Spring or Summer intake

Graduate Handbook [ PDF ]

Concentrations

Admission Requirements

For admission to graduate study, the department requires a BS in chemistry or the equivalent. This requirement applies to full-time and part-time students working toward either the MS or PhD in chemistry. All entering MS and PhD students are required to take a series of two-hour exams in analytical, inorganic, organic and physical chemistry to help assess their preparation for graduate work in chemistry. The scores obtained on these exams are used as a basis for course selection.

Application Requirements

• Completed online application
• Application Fee (Note: Application fee waivers are generally not offered.)
• Transcripts from all previous post-secondary institutions (note: Drexel can pull ÌÇÐÄVlog transcripts)
• Two (2) Letters of Recommendation
• Resume or CV
• Application Essay: Please write approximately 500 words describing the research advisors whom you envision working with; how your interests, experience, and training align with their research; your reasons for pursuing a Chemistry degree from Drexel; your short-term and long-term career plans; and how a degree from Drexel will enable you to pursue these goals successfully.
• Language Proficiency Exam Scores (International Students Only): TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, and Duolingo examinations accepted.

NOTE: GRE Exam is not required

Minimum Language Proficiency Exam Scores:

• TOEFL: 100/600/250
• IELTS: 7.5 Overall Band
• PTE: 68
• Duolingo: 110

Application Requirements

Research Areas

Chemistry students earning their master’s degree have conducted research in areas such as:

• The use of digital electronic methods to analyze trace constituents of air and water
• A study of the molecules of living systems
• The effects of toxic chemicals and carcinogens
• Synthesis and characterization of compounds of medicinal and industrial interest
• Methods for studying macromolecules and characterization of transient species using lasers

Graduate Co-op for MS Students

Drexel’s strengths as a leader in experiential education are now enhancing graduate student training with the MS in Chemistry graduate co-op option. The graduate co-op program offers full time MS in Chemistry students a unique opportunity to earn valuable professional experience at top-rated companies that counts toward their master’s plan of study. The extensive networks developed by the Steinbright Career Development Center, Drexel's Department of Chemistry, and area companies provide a wealth of opportunities for co-op employment both near and far.

Learn more about graduate co-op

Degree Options

The department offers a Master of Science in Chemistry with both thesis and non-thesis options. The thesis option is best for students who want to expand their background in research. This can be beneficial if the student expects to pursue their doctoral degree. The non-thesis option allows the student to take more electives in lieu of conducting a research project.

Thesis Option

In the first year of coursework, no later than the spring quarter, students should choose a research adviser with whom to work in carrying out an original investigation in chemistry. The results will be written up in thesis form and submitted to a master’s thesis committee consisting of the research adviser and two other departmental faculty appointed by the adviser. The acceptance of the MS thesis by the committee is the final requirement of the thesis option master’s degree. Students who have received financial aid from the department must elect the thesis option if they do not pursue the doctoral program at Drexel.