College of the Sciences
Chemistry
Master of Science | Graduate
Master of Science in Chemistry
In our graduate program, we provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in various areas of chemistry, including analytical, physical, organic, and inorganic chemistry. To tailor the program to a student’s interests, a student will connect with a professor whose research interests align with their own. A thesis or research project will demonstrate expertise at the end of the program.
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Chemistry
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What You'll Study
Academic Catalog | Chemistry Website
Core Courses
For the thesis MS degree in chemistry, you'll complete advanced coursework in topics such as biochemistry, biochemical toxicology, analytical chemistry, organic reaction mechanisms, organic spectroscopy, medicinal chemistry, atmospheric chemistry, quantum and computational chemistry, and advanced physical chemistry.
Electives
You’ll choose elective courses from chemistry and other departments—such as biology, geology, mathematics, physics, science education, business, and psychology—guided by your thesis committee to align with your academic interests and professional goals.
Graduate Committee
By the end of your second quarter, after consulting with chemistry graduate faculty, you'll select a thesis advisor to chair your graduate committee. Together with your advisor, you'll assemble a three-member committee, with at least two members from the chemistry faculty.
Examination
Thesis
For the thesis, you must prepare a written thesis documenting your research methods, analysis, and results. You'll also pass a final oral examination, which includes a public seminar on your thesis and coursework, followed by questions from your committee.
Non-Thesis
For the non-thesis, you'll prepare a written report on your research project or cooperative work and complete a final oral examination on your entire program. This includes a public seminar followed by questions from your committee, where you’ll defend your work and methodology.
Graduate Student Association
The Graduate Student Association at CWU fosters a supportive community for graduate students, providing resources, networking opportunities, and more.
Opportunities to Advance
In the past 5 years, graduate students have published (as co-authors with faculty) in 16 peer reviewed publications, and attended over 30 National and International conferences for presentations on their research.
Advanced Instrumentation
At CWU, you’ll receive hands-on instruction with advanced instrumentation, including ultraviolet-visible and infrared spectrometers, nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometers, and gel electrophoresis for proteins and DNA.
Career Preparation
The program prepares candidates for professional employment in chemistry, for teaching at the community college or secondary level, and for graduate studies beyond the M.S. level in chemistry and related fields.
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Financial Aid
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Student Life
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Lab Work
The chemistry labs at CWU provide a hands-on environment for experiments and collaboration, enhancing your practical skills in the chemical sciences.
Research Groups
Research is the cornerstone of the graduate program in chemistry. Faculty are involved in a variety of fundamental research projects in the chemical sciences and participate in collaborative efforts with other scientists across campus and around the world.
Specialized Skills
Specialize in various fields, including biochemistry, inorganic, organic, analytical, physical, and environmental chemistry, as well as chemistry education.
Why Study Chemistry at Central?
- The faculty in the Chemistry Department at CWU is dedicated to guiding students toward excellence in the chemical sciences.
- With a diverse range of programs, the department tailors educational experiences to meet each student’s unique interests.
- Students can collaborate closely with faculty members on engaging undergraduate research projects.
- There are exciting opportunities for students to take on roles as teaching assistants and tutors, enhancing their learning experience.
Career Pathways
3M
Eli Lilly
Fremont Analytical
HP
Johns Hopkins University
SnowLake
WA State Patrol
Inpria
Blue Origin
Merck