Graduate Chemistry

Doctoral Program

Chemistry Ph.D.

The Chemistry PhD program focuses on Materials Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Forensic Science and Biochemistry. The training prepares future scientists and educators for research within contemporary fields to accommodate changing and growing industry demands.

The PhD program in Chemistry provides a doctoral education in three technical focal areas: Materials Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Forensic Science and Biochemistry, drawing upon the strengths of the Department of Chemistry and other units, such as the College of Optics and Photonics and Advanced Materials Processing and Analysis Center. These areas meet the ever-pressing demand for the development of new materials and the increasing urgency of addressing crucial environmental and security problems. The curriculum has been formulated in collaboration with industrial scientists and represents a response to current and projected competencies needed by the industry. The purpose of the program is to develop scientists and educators capable of conducting research to solve important problems in contemporary fields of the chemical sciences while preparing a highly skilled work force to ensure the technological/economic health and competitiveness in central Florida.

Admissions Criteria

Thank you for your interest in applying to the UCF Chemistry graduate program. For your reference, below is the most common profile of competitive applicants to the UCF Chemistry Ph.D. program:

  • Have a B.A. or B.S. (or their international equivalents) in Chemistry or a related field.
  • Obtained a 3.0 GPA (or higher) with a similar or higher GPA in chemistry-related coursework.
  • Completed most of the following courses: organic chemistry I and II, physical chemistry I and II, analytical chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and biochemistry (or their equivalents).
  • Have 0.5 to 1.0 years of research experience (e.g., undergraduate research, internship, industry, etc.).

Please note that we use a holistic approach to decide on admission to UCF Chemistry graduate programs. This means all applications are thoroughly reviewed, and there are no cut-off scores or criteria that preclude a full review of all applications. This process can allow strengths in your application to outweigh any weaknesses. For example, if your overall GPA is less than 3.0, you may still be accepted to the program based on the strengths of other criteria. The criteria by which we review all applications are listed below:

  1. Prior academic performance. Evidence that applicant is academically prepared for graduate coursework in Chemistry.
  2. Drive to pursue a Ph. D/Commitment to learning. Evidence of long-term goals and the need for a Ph. D to achieve those goals; evidence for intellectual curiosity, research and/or teaching experience in all its forms.
  3. Research experience and/or ability to complete long-term tasks independently. Prior research or work experiences, evidence of research presentations or publications, internships or other activities that require long-term commitment.
  4. Maturity, resilience, and persistence. Applicant demonstrates personal responsibility and ability to overcome obstacles and/or adversity.
  5. Problem Solving. Applicant has demonstrated the ability to identify and solve problems with creativity and innovation.
  6. Activities related to community support, collaborative efforts, mentorship, or leadership.
  7. English Language Exam Scores (for international applicants only)

These criteria will be assessed from a combination of your application materials including transcripts, a statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, resume, and English Language Exam Scores (Required for International applicants only; minimum scores apply). Please write your statement of purpose to provide evidence for some (or all) of the criteria above. This document may also be useful to describe prior research or project experiences or provide context for weaknesses in the application, including challenges that arose during your undergraduate career. Please also provide your letter of recommendation writers these criteria, so they can provide further evidence to support your application. Thank you for applying to UCF Chemistry and best of luck preparing all your applications!

Chemistry Ph.D., Graduate Catalog

Masters Programs

Chemistry M.S.

The Master of Science in Chemistry (MS) program prepares students for careers in the chemical industry or further graduate studies. The curriculum is designed to provide a broad overall perspective of the chemical sciences field while placing the primary emphasis upon chemistry and the application of chemical principles.

This program concentrates in four technical focal areas:

  • Materials Chemistry
  • Environmental Chemistry
  • Biochemistry
  • Forensic Science
  • Chemistry Education Research (CER)
Chemistry M.S., Graduate Catalog