Chemistry

Master of Science (M.S.)

Chemistry student in lab using lab equipment

Earn your M.S. in chemistry at UW

The University of Wyoming’s M.S. in chemistry equips students with the advanced knowledge and research skills necessary for impactful work in academia or industry.

Our program provides students with cutting-edge research opportunities, personalized mentorship from faculty, support from a dedicated M.S. committee and practical experience through seminars and internships. While at UW, all students complete comprehensive training in analytical, inorganic, organic and physical chemistry. Our graduates emerge as well-rounded professionals ready to tackle complex scientific challenges and excel in their careers.

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Chemistry student in lab using lab equipment

This program is currently offered in
the following locations:

Laramie Campus

About the M.S. in Chemistry

Masters students take advanced coursework in analytical, inorganic, organic and physical chemistry. All students also complete research in their area of interest. In addition to coursework and research, students gain presentation and teaching skills, classroom training and get access to ample professional development opportunities.

Chemist working with lab equipment

 

 

 

Prospective students must have completed the following undergraduate coursework:

 

  • One year of general chemistry
  • One semester/quarter of quantitative analysis
  • One year of organic chemistry with laboratory
  • One year of physical chemistry with laboratory
  • One year of physics
  • Mathematics through multivariable calculus


All applicants must also take the General Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Both verbal and quantitative scores are evaluated as part of the admission process. 

Chemistry student working in a lab

 

M.S. in Chemistry Program Highlights

Professional Development

All UW programs place importance on professional development and preparing our students for fulfilling careers in their field of choice. The chemistry master’s program is no different. Our students get access to teaching opportunities, conferences and workshops throughout their degree program. The chemistry department also hosts regular seminars that allow students to interact with visiting scholars, industry professionals and alumni. These events offer opportunities to discuss current research trends and gain insight into potential career paths.

 

UW’s chemistry department boasts notable faculty members, each contributing significantly to their respective fields of research.

  • Dr. John Smith specializes in inorganic chemistry, focusing on the synthesis and characterization of novel materials with applications in catalysis and energy storage.
  • Dr. Emily Johnson is an expert in analytical chemistry. She is known for her work in developing advanced spectroscopic techniques for environmental monitoring and forensic analysis.
  • Dr. Michael Brown is a leader in Organic Chemistry research. He’s recognized for his contributions to the synthesis of natural products and medicinal chemistry, with a focus on drug discovery.
  • Dr. Sarah Lee is a prominent figure in Physical Chemistry, conducting research on molecular dynamics and computational chemistry, particularly studying reaction mechanisms and kinetics.

Meet Our Faculty

All students have access to state-of-the-art chemistry and biochemistry laboratories equipped with advanced instrumentation and resources. These resources include:

  • Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometers
  • Mass spectrometers
  • X-ray diffractometers
  • Chromatography systems
  • Computational chemistry tools
  • Clean rooms for nanomaterials synthesis
  • Environmental chambers

 

Our graduate program offers specialized courses across analytical, inorganic, organic and physical chemistry. These courses are designed to deepen understanding and expertise in key subfields of chemistry, so that graduates are prepared for advanced research and professional careers.

 

UW offers various financial aid opportunities to chemistry master’s students, including assistantships, scholarships and travel grants.

Funding Options

What can you do with a chemistry master’s degree?

UW chemistry graduates are well-prepared for diverse scientific careers in research, industry and academia. Graduates of this program gain strong analytical, laboratory and problem-solving skills that make them valuable in pharmaceuticals, environmental science, education and more.

  • Chemist
  • Professor of Chemistry
  • Research and Development Scientist
  • Associate Manager of Chemistry
  • Senior Scientist
  • Secondary Chemistry Teacher
  • Laboratory Manager
  • Quality Control/Assurance Analyst
  • Regulatory Affairs Specialist
  • Product Development Scientist
  • Analytical Chemist
  • Environmental Consultant
  • Pharmaceutical Scientist
  • Forensic Scientist
  • Materials Scientist
  • Chemical Safety Officer
  • Technical Sales Representative
  • Science Policy Analyst

  • Vanderbilt University
  • SC Johnson
  • Biogen
  • Agilent Technologies
  • CoorsTek, Inc.
  • University of New Mexico
  • Heidelberg University

You can't become a licensed pharmacist with just a chemistry degree, but it’s a great starting point. A chemistry background prepares you well for pharmacy school, which you’ll need to complete, along with licensing exams, to become a pharmacist.

It really depends on your goals. A master’s in chemistry prepares you for advanced roles in labs, industry, or government, allowing quicker entry into the workforce. A Ph.D. involves in-depth research and is ideal for careers in academia, high-level R&D, or leadership positions in scientific fields.