Chemistry, M.S.

Offered by: College of Science, Chemistry Department
www.csupomona.edu/~chemistry

Lisa Alex, Chair
Timothy Corcoran, Graduate Coordinator
Rakesh Mogul, Graduate Coordinator

The Master of Science degree in Chemistry provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles of chemistry and application in detail to advanced problems. This understanding will be gained through course work, seminar, independent study and research. The program is designed to provide the student with the necessary skills and techniques to reach the applicant’s particular objective, whether it be for a successful career in teaching or industry or to pursue further graduate work. The student in this program may pursue one of several fields of specialization which include analytical, inorganic, organic, physical chemistry and biochemistry.

Admission to the Program

An applicant for admission to the graduate program in chemistry must have received a baccalaureate degree in chemistry or in a related discipline, including at least 36 quarter units of chemistry courses. An applicant lacking these qualifications may be admitted subject to a review of the student’s academic background by the departmental graduate program committee. Admission to the program requires an undergraduate grade point average of 2.5 and an average of 3.0 in chemistry courses. A limited number of students not meeting these requirements may be admitted on a conditional basis if facilities permit. Such students must meet requirements stipulated in the statement of conditional admission within the time limit specified, to remain in the university.

Each selected applicant, with an advisory committee, will design a program in the selected area of specialization based upon interests, preparation and performance on a departmental placement examination. The program will include required courses, selection of courses in an area of specialization, independent study and a thesis. It will normally constitute 45 to 50 quarter units of credit.

Requirements

1. The degree program must include a minimum of 45 quarter units. At least 24 units must be taken in 500-600 level courses.
2. No more than 13 units of acceptable graduate credit may be transferred from another graduate institution. No more than 13 units taken through Extended University may be used on a contract. No more than 13 units of acceptable graduate credit may be petitioned by an undergraduate student. A total limit of 13 transfer, Extended University, and/or units petitioned for graduate credit may be included on a master’s contract. The stipulated time limit of 7 years applies to all of the above.
3. The student must complete his program based upon the curriculum outlined below.
4. The student must demonstrate a reading knowledge of a modern foreign language or proficiency in a computer programming language acceptable to the chemistry department.
5. A grade point average of 3.0 (B) or better must be maintained in all upper division undergraduate and all graduate courses.
6. Advancement to Candidacy must be achieved. Satisfaction of the Graduation Writing Test (GWT) requirement is necessary before advancement.
7. An acceptable thesis must be completed and the necessary copies submitted in accordance with university regulations.
8. An examination in defense of the thesis must be successfully completed.
9. The candidate must be enrolled in the university during the quarter of graduation.