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CSTEM College of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics

MS in Chemistry

The graduate program in chemistry at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) leads to a research-based Master of Science (MS) degree. The fields of biochemistry and chemistry aim to increase our molecular understanding of the organization of matter in natural and artificial systems and thereby provide solutions to problems of great importance to society. Our program provides students with both the freedom to explore diverse topics as well as a highly-structured “hands-on” research training environment where they can work one-on-one with faculty to systematically learn how to effectively and efficiently develop, plan, test, and present scientific hypotheses, investigations, and results. Graduates with a MS in Chemistry will be prepared not only to continue study at the Ph.D. level, but also to successfully pursue careers in private industry or government affiliated labs and agencies, and to teach at the college level.

The graduate program in Chemistry fosters the integration of many disciplines. A wide range of faculty expertise and research interests enables the department to offer a curriculum that spans the fields of bio-analytical chemistry, biochemistry, bio-organic chemistry, inorganic organic chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, and chemical education. Students may develop a program of courses and research tailored to their individual interests within the areas of faculty expertise. In addition, students may choose a research supervisor outside of the Chemistry & Biochemistry Department to be on their committee, allowing them to pursue interdisciplinary studies, special field research, or industry projects. Seminar courses focus on the primary literature and are presented as a forum for open interchange and dissemination of scientific knowledge.

Specific program student learning outcomes (PSLOs) are students graduating with a MS in Chemistry will be able to:

  • communicate scientific information in a clear and concise manner,
  • critically read and evaluate scientific literature,
  • design and carry out experiments using proper laboratory procedures, and
  • explore new areas of research and demonstrate an in-depth understanding of a specialized subject area.

For additional information, please select the links on the left-hand navigation menu for “Prospective Students” or “Current Students” as appropriate.