Why Should I Get a Master’s Degree in Chemistry?

There is a lot more you can do with a chemistry degree than you may think.

Chemistry is everywhere. It is the scientific study of the properties of matter, behavior of matter and the molecular composition of matter. Chemists play key roles in many industries and, because of this, the possibilities for employment are nearly endless for graduates with a chemistry degree.

Sacred Heart University offers a master of science (MS) in chemistry for individuals looking for opportunities in the dynamic field of chemistry. Linda Farber, assistant professor of chemistry and program director for the MS in chemistry program, and Joseph Audie, professor of chemistry, share how earning an MS in chemistry can advance students’ careers.

Why should I study chemistry?

There are so many career paths you can take with an MS in chemistry. Many students graduating with this degree are looking to get their doctoral degree, 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.

How will an MS in chemistry prepare me for these different career paths?

Not only does an MS in chemistry advance the knowledge you already have, but it introduces new ideas and provides valuable new skills valued in the workforce. SHU’s MS in chemistry has various tracks for students to choose from depending on their areas of interest.

General chemistry

The general chemistry track is for students looking to strengthen their knowledge in inorganic, physical, analytical and biochemistry. “Students in this track get a deeper understanding of these concepts and also strengthen their abilities to evaluate and solve research inquiries,” said Farber.

Chem-bioinformatics

The chem-bioinformatics track is for students who want to enhance their theoretical knowledge of computer science, mathematics and statistics. “This is where artificial intelligence and machine learning comes into play,” said Audie. “This track builds upon those methods and techniques.”

Molecular biochemistry

The molecular biochemistry track is where students learn the chemistry of biomolecules. “This track has more of a biochemistry focus. Students use all their chemistry foundations and apply them to biological applications,” said Farber.

Thesis vs. non-thesis tracks

SHU’s general chemistry and molecular biochemistry tracks offer thesis and non-thesis options for students. Students on the thesis track are paired with faculty members to pursue independent and original research. This involves a lot of time, thought and hands-on skills. The non-thesis tracks are ideal for individuals already working in the industry who are in the master’s program to advance their career.

SHU’s chem-bioinformatics track only offers a non-thesis option.

Can I get an MS in chemistry if I did not get a bachelor’s degree in chemistry?

Yes. You don’t have to earn a bachelor’s degree in chemistry to earn an MS in chemistry. If you have background knowledge in chemistry, you have the potential to succeed in the master’s-level classes.

“You really could have any background as long as you have basic knowledge in general and organic chemistry,” said Farber. “Pre-med students, for example, likely have a lot of the foundational knowledge and have taken required courses.”

Are you interested in earning an MS in chemistry?

SHU’s MS in chemistry program provides a variety of options designed to meet students’ academic, professional and personal interests, leading to exciting professional opportunities. SHU also offers a bachelor’s-master of science in chemistry 4+1 dual degree program, allowing first-year students to be admitted into the graduate program at the same time as their admission to the undergraduate program. Students can also apply for this program while already enrolled in the bachelor’s in chemistry program.

For more information about these programs, schedule an appointment with Whitney Kolwicz or contact program director Linda Farber at farberl@sacredheart.edu.