Master of Science in Chemistry

Whether you’re interested in how chemistry affects the environment, applications of chemistry to biology and medicine, or the biochemistry of cancer and its treatments, this advanced degree can open the door to a great career. For more information about applying to our graduate programs, please see these frequently asked questions.

Thesis-based master's degree

The objective of our graduate program is to provide an experience that meets the educational goals of the individual student while providing opportunities for research in traditional and interdisciplinary areas of chemistry. We prepare you for careers in industry and teaching, as well as for post-graduate and professional programs at other institutions. The MS degree requires at least 32 credit hours and the completion of a thesis based on original research. Our faculty conduct research in areas that explore the environment, the causes and potential therapeutics for cancer, the interfaces of chemistry and biology, development of new medicines, and the chemistry of materials. There are research opportunities for master's students in many branches of chemistry, including Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Education, Environmental Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry and Physical Chemistry. You can find more information on our degree focus areas by visiting our faculty.

Coursework-based master's degree

Students may enroll in a non-thesis master's program in Chemistry, starting Fall 2022. This degree is desirable for the growing scientific and technical workforce in Arizona as well as for continuing education for in-service K-12 teachers and employees in Flagstaff's science and technology firms. Notably, the existing thesis-based plan requires a full-time commitment to the program, while the non-thesis degree can be completed part-time. The non-thesis degree also provides additional options for traditional students who find that the thesis-based degree is not suitable to their skills or needs. To earn a master's degree in Chemistry at Northern Arizona University under the non-thesis option, students must complete a minimum of 30 units total, including at least 24 units of formal, letter-graded coursework-that is, courses other than individualized studies such as fieldwork, independent studies, and directed readings.  A maximum of six units of formal, graded coursework may be from 400-level courses with approval by the Graduate Advisory Committee.  A minimum of 15 graded units must have a CHM prefix and may include 400-level courses. Additional graded courses may be selected from an approved list of non-chemistry courses or with approval by the Graduate Advisory Committee. Students may receive up to six credits from fieldwork or internship experiences with approval by the Graduate Advisory Committee.

Accelerated master's program

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers an accelerated bachelor’s to master’s degree program that allows qualified students to start a Master’s degree, while simultaneously completing their Bachelor’s degree. We want you to progress toward your educational and career goals while saving time and money. The Accelerated BS/MS in Chemistry is for academically prepared and highly motivated students who plan on a career or further study in the fields of Chemistry or Biochemistry. Students will gain a solid foundation in chemistry and biochemistry coursework while pursuing in-depth research in an area of focus. The completion of a research-based thesis allows students to demonstrate the skills needed for success in careers in academia, industry, or government entities. This program is only open to current/admitted NAU undergraduate students. The BS/MS is a contiguous program for advanced, distinguished NAU Chemistry undergraduates, leading to both a Bachelor of Science (BS) and Master of Science (MS) degree. Areas of focus are defined by thesis research; research areas include Analytical, Environmental, Inorganic, Organic, Theoretical, Materials, and Biological Chemistry. Students admitted to this program have access to graduate-level courses and will carry out graduate-level research before completing their BS degree. More information on applying for the Accelerated program can be found at the Graduate College website.

Apply to our Graduate Program

See the information from the academic catalog at the top of this page under the Overview and Details tabs. Please note that GRE scores are no longer required for admission to our program, but applicants may choose to submit general and/or subject (Chemistry or Biochemistry) GRE exam scores with their application. Go to this page to apply online. Application deadlines are March 1^st for the following fall semester, and October 1^st for the following spring semester,  

More information

For more information on all graduate emphases, please see our frequently asked questions, as well as the information at the top of the page from the the academic catalog or contact our graduate coordinator.