Doctoral Program
Chemistry Ph.D.
UCF Chemistry Ph.D. students can choose to specialize in traditional chemistry disciplines or interdisciplinary fields, such as forensic chemistry and chemistry education. All students will complete rigorous coursework to build their advanced knowledge needed to solve complex research challenges. Students will receive training from research faculty that will prepare them for a range of careers. Research in the department is highly collaborative, leveraging partnerships with other units, including the National Center of Forensic Science, the Nanoscience and Technology Center, the Renewable Energy and Chemical Transformation (REACT) cluster, the College of Optics and Photonics, the College of Engineering and Computer Science and the College of Community Innovation and Education (CCIE).
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 the applicant is academically prepared for graduate Chemistry coursework.
2. Motivation. Statement of long-term goals that require completion of a Ph.D and how the UCF Chemistry Department, specifically, will enable the applicant to achieve those goals. Applicants may also explain how their prior experiences, coursework, or research has defined their future goals.
3. Research experience and problem solving. Evidence that the applicant has engaged in the scientific method, problem solving, and/or in-depth technical training. Evidence can include but is not limited to description of applicant’s contribution to research projects, conference posters or presentations, awards, publications, theses, internships, or other activities.
4. Maturity. Evidence that the applicant is developmentally, mentally, and emotionally prepared for the PhD program. This can include evidence for personal responsibility and ability to overcome obstacles and/or adversity.
5. Community and leadership. Activities related to community support, collaborative efforts, mentorship, or leadership.
6. English Language Exam Scores (for international applicants only)
These criteria will be assessed from transcripts, a statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, your CV/resume, Statement of purpose and letters of recommendation should present evidence for fulfillment of these criteria. These documents may also be useful to describe the applicant’s contributions to research projects or include context for weaknesses in the application. International applicants may have additional requirements (see https://graduate.ucf.edu/international-applicants/). Thank you for applying to UCF Chemistry and best of luck preparing all your applications!
Chemistry Ph.D., Graduate CatalogMasters 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 technical focal areas include the following:
- Materials Chemistry
- Environmental Chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Forensic Science
- Chemistry Education Research (CER)
Chemistry M.S. – Forensic Science Track
The Forensic Science Track of the M.S. Chemistry Program is designed to serve the needs of both practicing professionals and full-time students who desire an advanced program of study in the forensic analysis of biological materials.
Focal areas of the track include the following:
- Forensic Analysis: The Forensic Analysis emphasizes the application of modern chromatographic, spectroscopic and micro-analytical techniques to problems in forensic science.
- Forensic Biochemistry: The Forensic Biochemistry has a strong biochemistry-DNA focus to serve the needs of supervisory personnel in DNA sections of crime laboratories. National DNA standards mandate that such personnel have advanced degrees.