The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers programs leading to M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Chemistry in the areas of physical, organic, inorganic, biological, and analytical chemistry. Admission to these programs without deficiency is based on an undergraduate program essentially equivalent to that pursued by a chemistry or biochemistry major at this university. All applying students must submit undergraduate transcripts, a personal statement, and CV, and arrange for 3 letters of recommendation. All foreign students from undergraduate programs taught in a language other than English must additionally submit TOEFL or IELTS scores and demonstrate adequate English speaking and writing skills. GRE scores are not required to apply.
The core course work required of students entering with no previous graduate study in chemistry or biochemistry consists of courses exploring the concepts of Energy, Structure, Dynamics, and Measurements as applied to all disciplines of chemistry and biochemistry as well as short courses in Safety, Research Ethics, and Professional Development. Successful completion of a Qualifying Exam taken after the first year of coursework will determine whether a student is qualified to pursue continued study at the M.S. or Ph.D. level. After completion of the qualifying exam, a thesis committee is formed to assist the student in planning a program appropriate to his or her background and goals. Ph.D. candidates must take at least 6 additional credits of specialized coursework chosen in consultation with the thesis committee while M.S.candidates must take at least 3 additional credits. Ph.D. candidates must successfully complete a Comprehensive Exam in order to be eligible to write and defend a Ph.D. thesis. All students are expected to participate in discussion groups and department colloquia.
Since research is central in both the M.S. and Ph.D. programs, the early selection of a research advisor is encouraged. Students may choose to rotate through up to 3 research labs during their first semester before selecting a research advisor. Financial support is provided to all graduate students during their first year through teaching assistantships. Continued support may be provided through a research or teaching assistantship, depending upon individual laboratory funding. All support is contingent upon satisfactory academic and research performance. In addition, numerous traineeships and fellowships are available to qualified students. Inquiries regarding these opportunities should be directed to the graduate program coordinator at chembche@nmsu.edu.
USEFUL INFORMATION
2025 Graduate Student Handbook
Graduate Program Admissions F.A.Q
Graduate School Application and Admissions
Application deadline dates: February 15, April 15, September 30
