Graduate Program

Thank you for your interest in the graduate programs in chemistry at the University of New Orleans!

Doctor of Philosophy

The Ph.D. degree is offered by the Department in the areas of Analytical, Biochemistry, Inorganic, Medicinal, Materials, Organic, and Physical Chemistry. However, many members of the faculty have research interests that cross traditional boundaries to cover a range of interdisciplinary areas. The course of study leading to this degree is designed to provide students with a broad fundamental background in chemistry through a core course curriculum and rigorous experience in particular area of specialization.

The first year program is flexible and is arranged to prepare students for independent study. Formal course work is arranged on an individual basis. An advanced degree also represents experience in, and ability to carry out, original research. A majority of the doctoral program will be dedicated to research in the selected area of chemistry. Students entering the Ph.D. program with a baccalaureate degree in chemistry typically take 5 years to complete the program.  Dissertation research is undertaken under the supervision of a faculty member of the student's choosing. Students are encouraged to make their selection and begin research at the end of their first semester. More details can be found in the Graduate Student Handbook.

Master of Science (Non-Thesis)

The Non‐Thesis Terminal M.S. Degree Program provides B.A. and B.S. degree students with an option of obtaining a M.S. degree based upon completion of program of academic coursework in advanced chemistry. An advisor will be assigned to the student based on his or her area of interest. The minimum course work requirement is 33 hours including 3 credit hours of CHEM 6095 Seminar. Each student is required to prepare and present a literature seminar, the subject matter of which is to be taken from the current chemical/biochemical research literature. The student's Advisor and Committee must approve the topic. Students must present their seminar the semester they intend to graduate. The presentation of the seminar will serve as the comprehensive exam and will be judged by the students' Advisor/Committee as pass or fail.

M.S. students may not directly transfer into the Ph.D. program but may apply to the Ph.D. program at any time. Students admitted to M.S. program are self- supported and are not eligible for departmental assistantships. The Graduate School offers a competitive Master's Scholarship for which students may be eligible.

Financial Support

The Department typically offers financial support to all students accepted into the Ph.D. program. Teaching assistantships and research assistantships are available, and most new doctoral students begin as teaching assistants. The duties associated with a teaching assistantship vary and may include instruction of undergraduate laboratories, grading, and laboratory experiment preparation. Research assistantships are offered by many faculty members and are available to continuing doctoral students. The department also usually has fellowships available through the Louisiana State Board of Regents. All financial support of graduate students is contingent upon available funding.