DEGREE- GRADUATE (Master of Science in Chemistry)
Cal State LA's Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers a Master of Science degree in Chemistry and a Master of Science degree in Chemistry with an Option in Biochemistry. See Fall 2023 Admission Deadlines.
These research-based degree programs are designed to provide students with an expansion and a deepening of knowledge of the molecular sciences while developing critical writing, presentation skills, and laboratory manipulative techniques. Students will be prepared for supervisory and product development positions, teaching positions, and/or more advanced studies toward a Ph.D. in chemistry, biochemistry, or in the molecular life sciences.
Our Graduate Program Learning Outcomes outlines the knowledge, skills, and abilities students will gain after graduating with a degree in chemistry or biochemistry.
The program begins with core requirements courses, elective requirements courses, culminating with research and thesis requirements. Students can choose the Thesis Option, Biochemistry Option, or Comprehensive Examination Option.
Links for more information:
- Application to our Master of Science Program
- Comprehensive Examination Policy (Updated 02/2022)
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry Graduate Student Handbook (PDF)
- Graduate Resource Center
- Graduate Thesis, Project, and Dissertation Guidelines
- MS Advancement to Candidacy Form (GS10) (PDF)
- MS Approval Page for Graduate Thesis, Project Report, or Dissertation (GS13) (PDF)
- MS Chemistry Prospectus
- Cal State LA University Graduate Student Handbook (PDF)
ADVISEMENT
Department Graduate Advisor
Chemistry and Biochemistry's graduate advisor is Dr. Robert Vellanoweth. To make an appointment, please e-mail Dr. Vellanoweth at [email protected].
Graduate Placement Exam
Entering students are required to take a placement exam administered by the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. The department offers five examinations (see below). All students will take an exam in their area of specialization AND in two other areas of their choice.
- Physical Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Analytical
- Inorganic