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Department of Chemistry

Chemistry Programs at the University of Memphis

Undergraduate Programs

The Department of Chemistry offers two undergraduate degrees, the B.S. and the B.S.CH. Both degrees have an optional biochemistry concentration. The BSCH requires additional coursework in Chemistry and undergraduate research, and graduates are certified by the American Chemical Society.

Departmental honors can be earned in all undergraduate degrees. To graduate with Honors in Chemistry a student must have a GPA of at least 3.25, both overall and in required science and mathematics courses, must earn honors credit in two upper division CHEM courses and a third at any level, must complete three credits in undergraduate research, and must present a research paper to an audience outside the department.

Accelerated Bachelor/Masters allows outstanding undergraduates to begin the coursework for the Master of Science in Chemistry during their senior year.  Students are encouraged to begin planning to enter the Accelerated B.S./M.S. program early in their undergraduate career, in consultation with their advisor.

Program Objectives

Graduates with an undergraduate degree in chemistry:

  • will have a satisfactory knowledge and comprehension of core concepts of analytical, organic, physical, inorganic and bioorganic chemistry
  • will have the ability to critically assess and solve problems relating to theoretical and practical aspects of chemistry
  • will have satisfactory laboratory skills
  • will be able to communicate chemical concepts, and the results of investigations into chemical phenomena, through oral and written discourse and by way of mathematical sciences
  • will have satisfactory basic computer and computational skills
  • will be prepared for entry level positions in the field, or for admission to graduate or professional school
  • will demonstrate an understanding of professional ethics and the importance of chemistry in its impact on society.

Graduate Programs

  • Master of Science in Chemistry

The Department of Chemistry offers both a Thesis (research) and non-Thesis (coursework) MS degree. The non-Thesis MS degree can be completed in-person or fully online via UMGlobal.

Concentrations are available in Analytical, Computational, Inorganic, Organic, and Physical Chemistry. The M.S. degree requires 30 hours approved by the student's advisory committee:

    • Up to 9 hours in 6000 level courses (see diagnostic requirements)

    • At least 9 hours in courses numbered 7100 - 7899, with at least two areas of chemistry represented

    • Presentation (CHEM 7911)

    • Up to three hours of seminar (CHEM 7913)

    • Up to 9 hours in research and independent study (CHEM 7001, 7910, 7996)

    • Comprehensive examination

  • Doctor of Philosophy (Chemistry Major)

Concentrations are available in Analytical, Computational, Inorganic, Organic, and Physical Chemistry. The Ph.D. degree requires 72 hours approved by the student's advisory committee:

    • Up to 12 hours in 6000 level courses (see diagnostic requirements)

    • At least 15 hours in courses numbered 7100/8100 - 7899/8899, with at least two areas of chemistry represented (courses must be in chemistry or a related discipline approved by the student's advisory committee)

    • Presentation (CHEM 7911) and Advanced Presentation (CHEM 8911)

    • Up to two hours of seminar (CHEM 7913; students are expected to attend all department seminars while in residence)

    • Up to 42 hours in research and independent study (CHEM 7001/8001, 7910/8910, 9000)

    • Comprehensive examinations, including written cumulative examinations and a research prospectus

Further details may be found in the Graduate Catalog and in our Frequently Asked Questions page.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

  • Please do not send application materials, including letters of recommendation, directly to the Graduate Coordinator or any faculty member in chemistry. These materials must be submitted to the Graduate School during the application process. Your application can not be processed or considered by the department until your application to the graduate school is complete.
  • You do not need to contact potential mentors prior to applying or admission.
  •  Application fee waivers are not available through the Department of Chemistry.

Information for after you earn your degree: