Master's in chemistry

What is an MS in chemistry?

Master of science (MS) programs in chemistry cover a wide array of advanced chemistry topics. They build off undergraduate foundations and feature specialized learning opportunities that help you prepare for targeted careers or doctoral studies.

Traditionally offered in face-to-face formats, MS in chemistry programs are now also available online.

What can you do with a master's degree in chemistry?

A master's degree in chemistry can lead to career opportunities in many fields, including:

• Agriculture and food science
• Biotechnology research and development
• Environmental chemistry
• Forensic sciences
• Pharmaceuticals

Some companies also employ professionals with advanced chemistry knowledge in specialized business development, consulting, product development, sales, and workforce training roles.

A can also help you advance into a doctoral program. A doctorate can open doors to advanced careers in research, academia, and private industry.

Examples of job titles held by professionals with a master's degree in chemistry include:

• Analytical technologist
• Food scientist
• Forensic chemist
• Product developer
• Research and development technologist
• Toxicologist

Salary expectations for chemistry graduates

According to the BLS, chemists earned a median annual salary of $84,680 as of May 2023. Factors such as your level of education, location, experience, job title, and level of responsibility may impact your earnings.

Career outlook for chemistry graduates

The BLS projects faster-than-average job growth of 8% for chemists and materials scientists from 2023 to 2033. According to BLS data from May 2023, the following industries have the highest levels of employment for chemists:

• Scientific research and development services
• Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing
• Architectural, engineering, and related services
• Chemical manufacturing
• Federal, state, and local government

What can you learn in a graduate chemistry program?

MS programs immerse students in both general and specialized areas of chemistry. Some common specialization areas include:

• Biochemistry
• Chemical engineering
• Environmental chemistry
• Materials chemistry
• Medicinal chemistry

Programs have variable lengths. Some cover 10 courses, while others require 18 to 20. If you study full time, you can typically graduate in two to three years.

Master's in chemistry can help programs prepare students for career entry and for further studies at the doctoral level. They typically build toward a research thesis or comprehensive final examination. Some schools offer students a choice between these two culminating experiences, or other alternatives.

Admissions requirements for a master's in chemistry program

When evaluating applications, schools usually favor candidates with a bachelor's degree in chemistry or another science discipline with significant chemistry content. Examples of these fields include biochemistry, chemistry education, and chemical engineering.

If standardized exams are required, they likely involve the general GRE or the GRE subject test in chemistry. However, many schools continue to embrace test-free and test-optional admissions policies.

You should also expect to provide:

• Academic transcripts
• A personal essay or statement of purpose
• Multiple letters of recommendation

If English is not your mother tongue, you may also need to take a recognized language proficiency test such as IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.

Curriculum for online chemistry programs

Explore core, elective, and culminating courses you may take in your master's in chemistry program:

• Advanced biochemistry: This course examines advanced biochemistry principles and laboratory practices. Schools may offer similar courses in analytical, organic, or physical chemistry, or other chemistry specializations.
• Principles of chemical safety: Chemists must command extensive knowledge of chemical reactions, safety practices, and laboratory techniques. Students build on existing knowledge in this required class.
• Chemistry communications: This literature survey elective explores historical perspectives and current topics in chemistry. It helps develop advanced research literacy and sourcing skills.
• Chemistry seminar: In this elective, students learn about recent theoretical and experimental advancements in chemistry and its subfields. Alternately, students may seek faculty approval to use the course to pursue specialized topics of research interest.