About the Program
The aim of the graduate program in chemistry is to provide an environment for individuals to develop the skills to become leaders in scientific research and education, capable of making original contributions to the advancement of chemistry and related disciplines. Programs leading to the M.S. and Ph.D. degrees are offered in analytical chemistry, biochemistry, inorganic chemistry, materials chemistry, organic chemistry and physical chemistry. Research in the department is conducted in such interdisciplinary areas as bioanalytical, bioorganic, bioinorganic chemistry, chemical biology, physical organic chemistry, organometallic chemistry, chemical physics, and quantum science.
Dual-Title PhD in Cancer Research: Students can participate in an immersive experience at the forefront of cancer research and education. Purdue University Institute of Cancer Research (PICR) offers a Dual-Title PhD Program in Cancer Research, a unique opportunity for aspiring scholars to distinguish themselves in the dynamic field of cancer research. Applications are accepted at any time during the completion of their degree. Each applicant will be thoroughly reviewed by the PICR Committee for Academic and Career Success, led by the committee’s associate director.
As cancer continues to pose complex challenges, the demand for experts in this field has never been higher. Graduates from a degree program focused on cancer are poised for diverse and rewarding career opportunities in academia, industry, private NGOs, and government sectors. However, those with a Dual-Title PhD in cancer research, in combination with one of Purdue University’s established degree programs, elevate their profile as scholars and researchers with a specific disciplinary focus coupled with an in-depth understanding of cancer.
Program Website: Chemistry
Program Website: Cancer Research
GPA Requirements
Each student must earn credit (maintaining a grade-point average no less than 2.8) in a minimum of 18 hours of graduate courses (600 level or approved 500 level). As part of the coursework, students must earn credit, with a grade of “B” or better, in at least one course designated by the faculty as a Foundational Course. Unless the Advisory Committee explicitly approves an exception, this course must be within the student’s declared Disciplinary Research Group (DRG).
Students are encouraged to take more than one Foundational Course. It is strongly recommended that courses in at least three areas of study be completed during the first two semesters. At least nine of the eighteen hours must be in Purdue chemistry courses. No course grade lower than a “C” may be included in the Plan of Study. No changes may be made to a Plan of Study without approval of the student’s Advisory Committee. Part of the course requirements may be satisfied by credit in graduate courses from another institution, subject to the approval of the Advisory Committe.
In addition to the minimum GPA of 2.8 to complete the degree, students must have a minimum graduate GPA of 2.5 (out of 4.0) at the end of the first two semesters of graduate study to continue in the graduate program.
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