Program Overview

Chemistry - Master of Science

The Master of Science in Chemistry is offered in the major emphasis areas of analytical, inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry, and biochemistry. The M.S. degree can be obtained through either a thesis option or a non-thesis option. Both options require at least 30 credits of course work, with 15 of these credits must be taken at NMSU.

Program Structure

• The thesis option program is designed to teach students modern approaches to chemistry and biochemistry through courses, experimental methods to problem-solving through research, and communication skills in the discipline through seminars and colloquia.
• The non-thesis option requires students to pass a final exam, the format and content of which will be decided by a departmental committee.

Required Courses

• CHEM 475: Central Concepts in Chemistry - Safety (1 credit)
• CHEM 476: Central Concepts in Chemistry - Research Ethics (1 credit)
• CHEM 477: Central Concepts in Chemistry - Professional Development (1 credit)
• CHEM 501: Central Concepts in Chemistry - Energy (3 credits)
• CHEM 502: Central Concepts in Chemistry - Structure (3 credits)
• CHEM 503: Central Concepts in Chemistry - Dynamics (3 credits)
• CHEM 504: Central Concepts in Chemistry - Measurements (3 credits)
• CHEM 510: Graduate Student Seminar (3 credits, with only 3 credits counting toward the M.S. degree)
• CHEM 600: Research (9 credits, required only for thesis-option)
• Additional required course (3 credits), chosen based on major emphasis area through consultation with the thesis committee or an advisor.

Thesis Option Requirements

• Pass a qualifying exam at the end of the first year.
• Pass a final comprehensive examination, which includes a written thesis.
• At least one credit of CHEM 510 must be taken for a letter grade of B- or better.

Non-Thesis Option Requirements

• Pass a final exam, the format and content of which will be decided by a departmental committee.
• All credits of CHEM 510 may be taken as S/U.

Additional Courses

• Chosen based on major emphasis area, through consultation with the thesis committee or an advisor.
• Can include research credits.
• May include any course numbered 450 or above in the following subject areas: CHEM, BCHE, PHYS, MATH, C S, BIOL, A ST, CHME, GENE, MOLB, SOCI, EDUC, EPWS, ENVS, ANSC.