Master's in Chemistry

Build advanced chemistry expertise through a customizable curriculum that combines scientific inquiry, hands-on laboratory experience and specialized study aligned with your goals.

Sacred Heart’s MS in chemistry program will equip you with in-demand skills for key roles in the dynamic field of chemistry.

In addition to research or lab positions, many students graduating with this master’s degree pursue a doctoral degree or attend medical school, veterinary school, dental school, or another professional program in the health field. Students also go into intellectual property (patent) or environmental law, chemical or pharmaceutical research, chemical sales, education, and other science-related fields.

Learn more about tuition rates and payment options for the chemistry program.

Why Earn Your MS in Chemistry at Sacred Heart University?

SHU’s MS in chemistry program combines in-depth lectures with hands-on laboratory experience, giving you theoretical knowledge and practical skills for a successful career in chemistry.

Key benefits include:

• Customizable Tracks: Select from chemistry (thesis or non-thesis), chem-bioinformatics (non-thesis), or molecular biochemistry (thesis or non-thesis) to fit your goals
• Cutting-Edge Facilities: Gain hands-on experience with advanced equipment, including NMR systems
• Prime Location for Opportunities: SHU’s proximity to major employers like Pfizer and Bristol-Myers Squibb provides access to a thriving pharmaceutical and biotech corridor
• Career-Ready Training: Develop advanced laboratory, research, and analytical skills you can apply in scientific and industry settings
• Flexible Scheduling: Complete the program in two years full-time or study part-time at your own pace. Most classes are held on weekday evenings, allowing you to balance work and study

Medical School Preparation

Planning to apply to medical school? SHU’s MS in chemistry provides a strong foundation to enhance your application and prepare for advanced studies.

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Sacred Heart University is committed to making graduate education accessible and affordable. MS in chemistry students may qualify for a range of financial support options, including:

More Details

Choose Your Track

You'll shape your degree around your goals by choosing from five distinct tracks, each designed to build the specialized knowledge and hands-on experience that move your career forward. Whether you're drawn to original research, industry application, or the intersection of chemistry and computational science, you'll find a path that fits.

Chemistry: Thesis Track

Build advanced skills in laboratory techniques and computer modeling and complete a culminating research project and thesis. This track offers a deeper engagement with core chemical concepts and strengthens your ability to evaluate and solve complex research questions, giving you a strong foundation for doctoral study or careers in scientific research.

Chemistry: Non-Thesis Track

Designed for students with industry experience who want to broaden their scientific foundation across a range of topics, including inorganic, organic, physical, and analytical chemistry. Sharpen your ability to analyze scientific literature and strengthen your communication skills, building the versatile expertise that today's chemistry employers value most.

Chem-Bioinformatics: Non-Thesis Track

This track equips you with the computational tools and methods used at the intersection of chemistry and biology. As you learn to build databases, develop algorithms, and apply computational approaches to solve complex chemical and biological problems, you’ll develop a skill set that translates directly to careers in medicine, drug discovery, and pharmaceutical research.

Molecular Biochemistry: Thesis Track

Get direct, hands-on laboratory experience as you explore advanced bioanalytical methods and the chemistry of biomolecules. Working closely with a faculty adviser, you'll complete an original research project and write a thesis, gaining the depth of scientific inquiry and technical precision that doctoral programs and research-focused careers demand.

Molecular Biochemistry: Non-Thesis Track

With a focus on the chemistry of biomolecules and advanced bioanalytical techniques, the molecular biochemistry non-thesis track gives you practical laboratory experience without a thesis requirement. You'll explore the molecular foundations of living systems and develop hands-on skills that translate directly to careers in pharmaceutical research, biotechnology, and related scientific fields.

Career Outcomes

Our graduates have worked in companies and organizations such as:

• Brigham and Women’s Hospital, charge technician
• Eurofins PSS Insourcing Solutions, associate scientist
• AirOmatix, Inc., quality control/assurance and analytical chemists
• Sterling Labs, organic extractions lab technician/HPLC backup
• Clean Harbors, lab chemist I

Lifetime Career Support

Chemistry students benefit from a dedicated career team with industry experience and employer partnerships that connect top talent to major companies. Students and alumni enjoy lifetime access to the Center for Career & Professional Development, where expert coaches provide personalized support with résumés, interviews, and job placement.

Degree Options for SHU Undergraduates

Incoming First-Year Students: 4+1 Dual Degree Program

Students may apply directly to the Bachelor's-Master of Science in chemistry dual degree program as incoming first-year students for a streamlined path to earning both undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Students begin with an undergraduate major in chemistry, biochemistry, molecular & cellular biology or biology.

You’ll build a strong science foundation while progressing seamlessly into advanced coursework in chemistry to earn both degrees in five years—saving you time and offering a clear path to a master’s degree.

Current SHU Undergraduates: 4+1 Combined Degree Program

Sacred Heart undergraduates can fast-track their future by earning a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in just five years. You’ll work with your adviser to develop your seamless 4+1 plan.

Frequently Asked Questions