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Physical and Mathematical Sciences:
Chemistry and Biochemistry >
Program:
Chemistry
PhD

Chemistry

Application Deadline

  • Fall: Jan 14
  • Contact Information

    C-100 BNSN, Provo, UT 84602-5700
    (801) 422-9794
    chemgradsec@chem.byu.edu
    Website
    Admission Requirements
    Required Tests

    None

    Additional Requirements
    • Baccalaureate degree or equivalent preparation in chemistry
    • Resume
    • Application fee exemption deadline: December 20, 2024
    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), 601694 and other courses as required by the area of emphasis and as specified by committee.
    • Semi-annual progress review, examinations, publication/s and presentations.
    • Oral comprehensive qualifying proposal.
    • Dissertation.
    • Final oral examination consisting of two parts: (A) public presentation of original research described in the dissertation; (B) comprehensive examination on course work, research and dissertation.
    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 stated below.

    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 88.0
    International 37.0
    Male 61.0
    Female 27.0
    LDS 62.0
    BYU Undergraduate 16.0
    Five Year Average of Graduated Students
    Average Years to Degree 1.89
    Graduated Per Year 18.6
    GMAT Quantitative Percentile 67.5
    Five Year Average of Admitted Students
    Applied Per Year 21.8
    Admitted Per Year 16.0
    Percent Admitted 73.39
    Average GPA 3.44