Degree Requirements
The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers MS and Ph.D. programs in chemistry and biochemistry. Both the MS and Ph.D. programs require the completion of an original research project and the presentation and defense of a thesis (dissertation). The MS degree is not a prerequisite for the Ph.D. The graduate program of study is divided into the areas of biochemistry, analytical, physical, organic, and inorganic chemistry. An active seminar program is viewed as an essential component of the graduate educational process and provides many opportunities for feedback and cross-fertilization of ideas from different areas. Each year faculty members present an overview of their research programs and highlight their latest discoveries. Students participate each year by presenting either literature discussions or seminars on their individual research projects. In addition, a number of national and international scientists from both academia and industry present talks during the year.
During the first semester of study, students discuss potential research projects with several professors and then select three research laboratories to rotate through for about one month. When rotations are complete, students decide which research group they would like to join. A supervisory committee, is selected by the student and approved by the department head during the third quarter of residence. The committee provides assistance in establishing the student's detailed course of study, evaluating his or her progress towards a degree, and lending additional assistance and direction as needed.
Specific information are included in:
Applications for graduate studies in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry must be submitted using the button below. We look forward to receiving your application!
FAQ:
What are the minimum requirements for Admission?
General Admission Requirements
- Statement of Purpose
- Resume or CV
- Three Letters of Recommendation
- Official Transcripts and Degree Certifications from all institutions attended
- General Exam (GRE) Test Results: 40th percentile minimum score
- GPA 3.0 or higher for the terms that include your last 60 semester or 90 quarter credits
What are the language requirements for foreign students?
-Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
minimum required score for Internet-based test 79
minimum required score for paper-based tests 59
-International English Language Testing Systems (IELTS)
minimum required scores: 6.0 overall (and a minimum scores of 5 on each subscale)
How do I submit my application?
Online applications are submitted through applynow.usu.edu. First, create an account and electronically submit all needed documentation. Letters of recommendation are submitted to the recommender electronically from the applicant. Transcripts can be sent electronically from your institution to Utah State University by requesting your institution to send them to graduateschool@usu.edu.
All materials do not have to be submitted at the same time. When the application fee is paid the application is submitted to the School of Graduate Studies and will be processed. The department Graduate Program Coordinator will also be notified that your application is ready for review. The department will review applications as they are referred to the department.
When is my application due?
The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry will be accepting Fall 2021 graduate applications beginning August 2020. Completed applications will be reviewed in the order that they are received until all Fall 2021 positions have been filled. Contact Cindy Weatbrook at cindy.weatbrook@usu.edu or 435-797-1618 with any questions.
Where can I find more information about the graduate programs in Chemistry & Biochemistry at Utah State University?
Faculty Research Interests
Degree Requirements
Find your degree offers students information on all degrees offer by Utah State University.
What financial support is offered?
The department offers financial support to students in the form of teaching assistantships and research assistantships. All applications for admission to the Graduate School constitute an application for financial assistance; it is not necessary to file a separate request. The current support package includes:
- $25,575 annual assistantship salary
- Full cost of tuition (up to $15,900 a year)
- 80% of health insurance premiums
- $1,000 one-time signing bonus
Other scholarships are available through Utah State University. Students are notified via their aggiemail account when applications are available.
What if I have other questions?
