Chemistry
PhD
Application Deadlines
Fall:January 5
Contact Information: 
C-100 BNSN, Provo, UT 84602-5700
(801) 422-9794
chemapp@byu.edu
Website
Program Requirements: 

The chemistry PhD degree prepares a scientist to contribute on the creative front of chemical science. The PhD student will select one of the four chemistry areas of emphasis (i.e., analytical, inorganic, organic, or physical chemistry), but there is sufficient flexibility in course and committee selection that a program of study can acquire a significant interdisciplinary character. Some courses on advanced topics related to the student’s professional goals will be taken, but the PhD degree is primarily a research experience that is to be reported in a dissertation and in the scientific literature. The PhD chemist is prepared for a wide range of career choices and will be expected to act with considerable independence and enjoy major responsibilities. A new PhD chemist may seek employment in industry, government agencies, or the university or college setting.

Requirements for Degree.

  • Credit hours (54): 36 hours of course work and research plus 18 dissertation hours (Chem 699R). (With departmental approval, some credit from an MS degree may be applied toward this requirement.)
  • Required courses: Chem 692R and 594R (multiple semesters), 601, 694 and other courses as required by the area of emphasis and as specified by committee.
  • Semi-annual progress review, examinations and presentations.
  • Comprehensive qualifying exam: written and/or oral.
  • Dissertation.
  • Final oral examination consisting of two parts: (A) public presentation of original research described in dissertation; (B) comprehensive examination on course work, research and dissertation.
Admission Requirements: 

Required Tests

GRE general test is required, GRE subject test in chemistry or biochemistry is recommended.

Additional Requirements

  • Baccalaureate degree or equivalent preparation in chemistry
  • Resume

Fellowship consideration deadline: January 5

Program Outcomes: 


Productive and Ethical Contributors

Graduates of this program will demonstrate the necessary skills to become productive, ethical, and independent scientists. They will be prepared to further their educations through postdoctoral training, enter industry, and/or begin an academic career. This broad outcome is further elaborated in outcomes 2-5.

Critical Evaluation of Current Research

Program graduates will understand and critically evaluate current research in their chosen subdiscipline in chemistry. Coursework that builds upon the student's undergraduate education will provide the initial steps to achieve this outcome. Continued critical reading of current literature is essential for reaching this outcome.

Proficiency in Laboratory Techniques

Program graduates will demonstrate proficiency in laboratory techniques necessary to contribute to knowledge in their chosen subdiscipline of chemistry.

Effective Writing, Communication, and Presentation

Program graduates will learn to effectively write scientific manuscripts describing their research and to make oral presentations of their research at scientific meetings.

Research Skills

Program graduates will demonstrate the ability to identify new research opportunities, plan effective strategies for pursuing these opportunities, and conduct research that contributes in a meaningful way to current knowledge in their chosen subdiscipline of chemistry or related areas.

Program Stats

Characteristics of Students from Past Academic Year
Total Students 61
International 38
Female 19
LDS 34
Non-White 38
BYU Undergraduate 3
Three Year Average Test Scores of Admitted Student
GRE Composite Score 309.8
GRE Quantitative Score 158.6
GRE Quantitative Percentile 70.8
GRE Verbal Score 151.2
GRE Verbal Percentile 50.0
GRE Analytical Score 3.4
GRE Analytical Percentile 33.4
Five Year Average of Graduated Students
Average Years to Degree 5.4
Graduated Per Year 11.0
Five Year Average of Admitted Students
Applied Per Year 33.2
Admitted Per Year 15.2
Percent Admitted 45.78
Average GPA 3.55