chemistry phd programs in california

UCI Department of Chemistry

Search form, doctoral program in chemistry.

The UCI Department of Chemistry offers a traditional Chemistry foundation blended with research experience in emerging fields.  Areas of specialization include:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Atmospheric Chemistry
• Chemical Biology
• Inorganic Chemistry
• Materials Chemistry
• Nuclear Materials Chemistry
• Organic Chemistry
• Physical Chemistry
• Theoretical Chemistry

Students primarily enroll into the Ph.D. program and are awarded a M.S. degree when they have completed the necessary requirements. The Ph.D. is granted in recognition of breadth and depth of knowledge of the facts and theories of modern chemistry and an ability to carry out independent chemical research. Chemistry Ph.D. students are competitive for top-level academic and industrial research positions, as well as many other career pathways.

Chemical and Materials Physics (ChaMP) is an interdisciplinary program between condensed matter physics and physical chemistry, which is designed to eliminate the barrier between these two disciplines. The goal of the concentration in is to provide students with a broad interdisciplinary education in the applied physical sciences that emphasizes modern laboratory and computational skills.

What Sets Us Apart?

The UCI Department of Chemistry is ranked 15th nationwide by Academic Analytics, which is based on the overall quality of the research program and faculty productivity. Our rich department history includes Nobel Laureate F. Sherwood Rowland, and amongst our current faculty are three National Academy of Science members, eight Beckman Young Investigator awardees, twenty-three Sloan Foundation Fellows, thirteen Dreyfus Teacher-Scholars, and eighteen NSF CAREER awardees.

UCI Chemistry Faculty members receive about $10M in new extramural research funding each year, with total funding on the order of $20M at any given time. The UCI Department of Chemistry is also home to one of nine NSF Centers for Chemical Innovation (CCI) programs: Chemistry at the Space-Time Limit (CaSTL). Steady resources have enabled the Chemistry Department to maintain and expand state-of-the-art instrumentation user facilities, including a laser spectroscopy facility, a mass spectroscopy facility, an X-ray crystallography facility, an NMR facility, a molecular modeling facility, and a nuclear reactor, all of which are staffed by Ph.D. specialists. These facilities are accessible to graduate researchers, some on a 24/7 open access basis.  

Home to more than 250 chemistry graduate students, the UCI Department of Chemistry offers a rich and dynamic research environment with an abundance of opportunity for collaboration. Students enjoy the benefits that a large, vibrant research community brings, while still receiving plenty of specialized and individual attention.  Faculty mentors and area advisors meet with students regularly to discuss research, plan coursework, and make sure students are making progress towards their degrees. In the past five years, over thirty chemistry graduate students at UCI have been awarded the prestigious NSF GRFP, another indicator of the quality of student research and individual faculty mentoring.

• Department of Chemistry Program Learning Outcomes

Prospective Students

Current students.

Chemistry Graduate Programs in California

1-23 of 23 results

Stanford University Department of Humanities and Sciences

Stanford, CA •

Stanford University •

Graduate School

Stanford University ,

Graduate School ,

STANFORD, CA ,

Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering - California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA •

California Institute of Technology •

California Institute of Technology ,

PASADENA, CA ,

Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences

Los Angeles, CA •

University of Southern California •

University of Southern California ,

LOS ANGELES, CA ,

Mississippi College

Graduate School •

CLINTON, MS

• • Rating 4.37 out of 5   35

University of Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH, PA

• • Rating 4.43 out of 5   74

Sacred Heart University

FAIRFIELD, CT

• • Rating 4.4 out of 5   45

UCLA College of Letters and Science

University of California - Los Angeles •

• • Rating 3 out of 5   1 review

University of California - Los Angeles ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 3 stars.

Read 1 reviews.

UC Berkeley College of Chemistry

Berkeley, CA •

University of California - Berkeley •

Blue checkmark.

University of California - Berkeley ,

BERKELEY, CA ,

College of Letters and Science - UC Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, CA •

University of California - Santa Barbara •

University of California - Santa Barbara ,

SANTA BARBARA, CA ,

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School of Physical Sciences - University of California - Irvine

Irvine, CA •

University of California - Irvine •

University of California - Irvine ,

IRVINE, CA ,

UC Davis College of Letters and Science

Davis, CA •

University of California - Davis •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   2 reviews

Master's Student: Very informative and hard-working staff, graduate students and faculty. Anthropology department is robust, first-rate and diverse. Faculty are continuously researching and dedicating time to advancing the field. ... Read 2 reviews

University of California - Davis ,

DAVIS, CA ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says Very informative and hard-working staff, graduate students and faculty. Anthropology department is robust, first-rate and diverse. Faculty are continuously researching and dedicating time to... .

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UC San Diego Division of Physical Sciences

La Jolla, CA •

University of California - San Diego •

University of California - San Diego ,

LA JOLLA, CA ,

University of San Francisco College of Arts and Sciences

San Francisco, CA •

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University of San Francisco ,

SAN FRANCISCO, CA ,

College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics - California State University - Long Beach

Long Beach, CA •

California State University - Long Beach •

California State University - Long Beach ,

LONG BEACH, CA ,

College of Sciences - San Diego State University

San Diego, CA •

San Diego State University •

San Diego State University ,

SAN DIEGO, CA ,

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Division of Physical & Biological Sciences - UC Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, CA •

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University of California - Santa Cruz ,

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College of Natural and Agricultural Sciences

Riverside, CA •

University of California - Riverside •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   1 review

Doctoral Student: I just completed my first year in my PhD program here at UCR. The course work was solid and the faculty are laid back. I haven't felt the extra pressure of living up to my PI's expectation, meanwhile I am encouraged to push my limits to prepare me for the workforce in the near future. ... Read 1 review

University of California - Riverside ,

RIVERSIDE, CA ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says I just completed my first year in my PhD program here at UCR. The course work was solid and the faculty are laid back. I haven't felt the extra pressure of living up to my PI's expectation,... .

College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics - California State University - Fullerton

Fullerton, CA •

California State University - Fullerton •

California State University - Fullerton ,

FULLERTON, CA ,

College of Science - California State Polytechnic University - Pomona

Pomona, CA •

California State Polytechnic University - Pomona •

California State Polytechnic University - Pomona ,

POMONA, CA ,

College of Science and Mathematics - California State University - Fresno

Fresno, CA •

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California State University - Fresno ,

FRESNO, CA ,

College of Science and Mathematics - California State University - Northridge

Northridge, CA •

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NORTHRIDGE, CA ,

School of Natural Sciences - University of California - Merced

Merced, CA •

University of California - Merced •

University of California - Merced ,

MERCED, CA ,

College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics - California State University - Sacramento

Sacramento, CA •

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California State University - Sacramento ,

SACRAMENTO, CA ,

College of Natural and Social Sciences - California State University - Los Angeles

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College of Science - San Jose State University

San Jose, CA •

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San Jose State University ,

SAN JOSE, CA ,

College of Science - California State University - East Bay

Hayward, CA •

California State University - East Bay •

Graduate Student: As a graduate student at CSUEB I find the online MSN program convenient, enlightening and educational. The professors make themselves readily available for support throughout the program with designated office hours and constant communication through blackboard and emails. Because I work full time as a night shift RN it is convenient for me to be able to work on my assignments whenever works best for me. I am enjoying the program so far and look forward to furthering my education in the years ahead as I continue through the hybrid program. ... Read 1 review

California State University - East Bay ,

HAYWARD, CA ,

Featured Review: Graduate Student says As a graduate student at CSUEB I find the online MSN program convenient, enlightening and educational. The professors make themselves readily available for support throughout the program with... .

College of Science and Engineering - San Francisco State University

San Francisco State University •

SAN FRANCISCO, CA

College of Business - University of La Verne

University of La Verne •

LA VERNE, CA

• • Rating 4.54 out of 5   13

School of Christian Leadership - William Jessup University

Jessup University •

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Showing results 1 through 23 of 23

PhD Program

Professor Wender discusses chemistry with his graduate students.

Doctoral study in chemistry at Stanford University prepares students for research and teaching careers with diverse emphases in basic, life, medical, physical, energy, materials, and environmental sciences.

The Department of Chemistry offers opportunities for graduate study spanning contemporary subfields, including theoretical, organic, inorganic, physical, biophysical and biomedical chemistry and more. Much of the research defies easy classification along traditional divisions; cross-disciplinary collaborations with Stanford's many vibrant research departments and institutes is among factors distinguishing this world-class graduate program.

The Department of Chemistry is committed to providing academic advising in support of graduate student scholarly and professional development.  This advising relationship entails collaborative and sustained engagement with mutual respect by both the adviser and advisee.

• The adviser is expected to meet at least monthly with the graduate student to discuss on-going research.
• There should be a yearly independent development plan (IDP) meeting between the graduate student and adviser. Topics include research progress, expectations for completion of PhD, areas for both the student and adviser to improve in their joint research effort.
• A research adviser should provide timely feedback on manuscripts and thesis chapters.
• Graduate students are active contributors to the advising relationship, proactively seeking academic and professional guidance and taking responsibility for informing themselves of policies and degree requirements for their graduate program.
• If there is a significant issue concerning the graduate student’s progress in research, the adviser must communicate this to the student and to the Graduate Studies Committee in writing.  This feedback should include the issues, what needs to be done to overcome these issues and by when.

Academic advising by Stanford faculty is a critical component of all graduate students' education and additional resources can be found in the  Policies and Best Practices for Advising Relationships at Stanford  and the  Guidelines for Faculty-Student Advising at Stanford .

Learn more about the program through the links below, and by exploring the research interests of the  Chemistry Faculty  and  Courtesy Faculty .

Chemistry PhD

The Chemistry PhD program is designed towards developing the ability to do creative scientific research. Accordingly, the single most important facet of the curriculum for an individual is his or her own research project. In keeping with the goal of fostering an atmosphere of scholarly, independent study, formal course requirements are minimal and vary among disciplines. Advisers tailor course requirements to best prepare the student for the chosen research field.

The doctoral program includes the following concentrations, each of which has specific degree requirements:

• Physical Chemistry: In general, the Physical Chemistry Graduate Program encompasses experimental physical, analytical, nuclear, biophysical, and theoretical chemistry.
• Synthetic Chemistry: The Synthetic Chemistry Graduate Program includes emphases in preparation of organic or inorganic compounds, development of methods for their synthesis, and their characterization and use.
• Chemical Biology: The Chemical Biology Graduate Program covers research areas at the interface of chemistry and biology, ranging from the synthesis of bioactive materials to the characterization of living systems.

Contact Info

[email protected]

419 Latimer Hall

Berkeley, CA 94720

At a Glance

Department(s)

Admit Term(s)

Application Deadline

December 4, 2023

Degree Type(s)

Doctoral / PhD

Degree Awarded

GRE Requirements

Department of Chemistry

College of Natural & Agricultural Sciences

Ph.D. Program of Study

All Ph.D. students in good standing are fully supported during their studies. The Ph.D. program at UCR is designed to provide students with the academic background, research experience, and professional development to make them successful and independent scientists. Emphasis is placed on creating a base of chemical knowledge that can serve as the foundation for fostering high-level critical and creative problem-solving skills.

Classes and Teaching

Beginning graduate students arrive in mid-September for TA training and to take orientation exams in the areas of Analytical, Inorganic, Organic and Physical chemistry. Based on previous coursework, performance on the placement exams, and discussion during individual meetings, the Graduate Advisor will determine a schedule of classes that will best meet each student’s needs. Students typically take 5-6 graduate classes (1-2 classes per quarter) to fulfill course requirements during their first year. Each research area (Analytical, Inorganic, Organic and Physical) also has a seminar course which all graduate students take every year (Chem. 251, 252, 253, and 254). After their first year, every student presents a 20-30 minute seminar once per year to students and professors in their area. This class is designed to provide students with valuable seminar presentation experience, as well as updating their peers on the progress of their research.

Choosing a Research Advisor

The Ph.D. is a research degree, and arguably the most important task of a student during the first year of graduate study is to choose a research area and faculty advisor. Chemical research at UCR spans a wide range of areas, and students are encouraged to investigate broadly before choosing a research advisor. Interdisciplinary research and joint research projects are encouraged. Feel free to contact individual faculty members to discuss opportunities within their labs. Phone numbers and E-mail addresses are in provided in the Faculty Profiles on this website. Students are encouraged to choose a research group by January of their first year.

Advancement to Candidacy

Shortly after completion of their first year, students participate in a Second Year Research Evaluation (SYRE) that covers each student's individual research topic. The SYRE consists of writing a short research proposal that discusses their proposed Ph.D. research and their progress to date, and presenting that proposal to a committee of three faculty members orally. The SYRE provides students an opportunity to receive early feedback on their research progress and helps prepare them for the format of the Qualifying Exam. Towards the end of their second year, students take the Qualifying Exam. It consists of two research proposals: an independent research proposal on work unrelated to the student’s Ph.D. research, and a separate proposal on the student’s own Ph.D. research. The student prepares short written proposals for each topic and then presents and defends them orally. Upon successful completion of the exam, the student is officially advanced to candidacy. There are no cumulative exams.

Thesis Defense

After a student has completed all the requirements for advancement to candidacy, there are no more requirements until the thesis is completed and submitted to the committee. On average, this occurs in the student’s 5th year. Successful completion of the Thesis Defense includes evaluation of the written document and oral presentation of the research to the committee, after which the student is officially awarded the Ph.D. degree.

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Berkeley Berkeley Academic Guide: Academic Guide 2023-24

About the Program

The Chemistry PhD program is designed towards developing the ability to do creative scientific research. Accordingly, the single most important facet of the curriculum for an individual is his or her own research project. In keeping with the goal of fostering an atmosphere of scholarly, independent study, formal course requirements are minimal and vary among disciplines. Advisers tailor course requirements to best prepare the student for the chosen research field.

The doctoral program includes the following concentrations, each of which has specific degree requirements:

• Physical Chemistry: In general, the Physical Chemistry Graduate Program encompasses experimental physical, analytical, nuclear, biophysical, and theoretical chemistry.
• Synthetic Chemistry: The Synthetic Chemistry Graduate Program includes emphases in preparation of organic or inorganic compounds, development of methods for their synthesis, and their characterization and use.
• Chemical Biology: The Chemical Biology Graduate Program covers research areas at the interface of chemistry and biology, ranging from the synthesis of bioactive materials to the characterization of living systems.

Visit Department Website

Admission to the University

Applying for graduate admission.

Thank you for considering UC Berkeley for graduate study! UC Berkeley offers more than 120 graduate programs representing the breadth and depth of interdisciplinary scholarship. A complete list of graduate academic departments, degrees offered, and application deadlines can be found on the Graduate Division website .

Prospective students must submit an online application to be considered for admission, in addition to any supplemental materials specific to the program for which they are applying. The online application can be found on the Graduate Division website .

Admission Requirements

The minimum graduate admission requirements are:

A bachelor’s degree or recognized equivalent from an accredited institution;

A satisfactory scholastic average, usually a minimum grade-point average (GPA) of 3.0 (B) on a 4.0 scale; and

Enough undergraduate training to do graduate work in your chosen field.

For a list of requirements to complete your graduate application, please see the Graduate Division’s Admissions Requirements page . It is also important to check with the program or department of interest, as they may have additional requirements specific to their program of study and degree. Department contact information can be found here .

Where to apply?

Visit the Berkeley Graduate Division application page .

Doctoral Degree Requirements

The requirements for a phd degree in chemistry.

Coursework: There is no formal coursework requirement, however, the equivalent of four semester-long courses is normally taken. Courses you will take will depend on your background and research interests.

Graduate student instructor service: A total of two semesters of graduate student instructor service is required with a third semester as optional. Graduate Student Instruction is usually fulfilled in the first semester and one semester in each of the next two years.

First-year report (synthetic and chemical biology division): An original, journal-quality research proposal no more than 10 pages read by two chemistry faculty.

Second-year seminar (all divisions): A 25-minute presentation to the department on your research progress.

Qualifying examination (all divisions): An oral examination with a committee of three chemistry faculty and one outside department faculty member on your research and defense of an original research proposal (synthetic) or critical analysis of a recent outside paper (non-synthetic).

Dissertation (all divisions): Submission of your dissertation approved by a committee of your research adviser, a second chemistry faculty member, and one outside department faculty member. No dissertation defense.

CHEM 200 Chemistry Fundamentals 1 Unit

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022 Review of bonding, structure, stereochemistry, conformation, thermodynamics and kinetics, and arrow-pushing formalisms. Chemistry Fundamentals: Read More [+]

Rules & Requirements

Prerequisites: Graduate standing or consent of instructor

Hours & Format

Fall and/or spring: 6 weeks - 3 hours of lecture and 0 hours of voluntary per week

Additional Format: Three hours of lecture and zero hour of voluntary per week for 6 weeks.

Additional Details

Subject/Course Level: Chemistry/Graduate

Grading: Letter grade.

Chemistry Fundamentals: Read Less [-]

CHEM 201 Fundamentals of Inorganic Chemistry 1 Unit

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022 Review of bonding, structure, MO theory, thermodynamics, and kinetics. Fundamentals of Inorganic Chemistry: Read More [+]

Fall and/or spring: 6 weeks - 3 hours of lecture per week

Additional Format: Three hours of lecture per week for five weeks.

Fundamentals of Inorganic Chemistry: Read Less [-]

CHEM 208 Structure Analysis by X-Ray Diffraction 4 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022 The theory and practice of modern, single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Groups of four students determine the crystal and molecular structure of newly synthesized materials from the College of Chemistry. The laboratory work involves the mounting of crystals and initial evaluation by X-ray diffraction film techniques, the collection of intensity data by automated diffractometer procedures, and structure analysis and refinement. Structure Analysis by X-Ray Diffraction: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Consent of instructor

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 2 hours of lecture and 8 hours of laboratory per week

Additional Format: Two hours of Lecture and Eight hours of Laboratory per week for 15 weeks.

Structure Analysis by X-Ray Diffraction: Read Less [-]

CHEM 214 Heterocyclic Chemistry 3 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2022, Spring 2020 Advanced topics in organic chemistry with a focus on the reactivity and synthesis of aromatic heterocycles. Classic and modern methods for the synthesis of indoles, pyridines, furans, pyrroles, and quinolines will be covered, as well as complex, multi-heteroatom ring systems. Applications to medicinal and bioorganic chemistry will be included where appropriate. Heterocyclic Chemistry: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Graduate student standing or consent of instructor. A year of organic chemistry with a grade of B- or better is required for undergraduate enrollment

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 3 hours of lecture per week

Additional Format: Three hours of lecture per week.

Instructor: Maimone

Heterocyclic Chemistry: Read Less [-]

CHEM 220A Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics 3 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022 A rigorous presentation of classical thermodynamics followed by an introduction to statistical mechanics with the application to real systems. Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 120B

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 3 hours of lecture and 0 hours of voluntary per week

Additional Format: Three hours of lecture and zero hour of voluntary per week.

Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics: Read Less [-]

CHEM 220B Statistical Mechanics 3 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2023, Spring 2022, Spring 2021 Principles of statistical mechanics and applications to complex systems. Statistical Mechanics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 220A

Additional Format: Three hours of Lecture per week for 15 weeks.

Statistical Mechanics: Read Less [-]

CHEM 221A Advanced Quantum Mechanics 3 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022 Basic principles/postulates of quantum mechanics, Hilbert space and representation theory, quantum theory of measurements, advanced descriptions of harmonic oscillator and theory of angular momentum, time independent and time dependent approximation methods, applications to quantum mechanics of atoms and molecules. Advanced Quantum Mechanics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Chem120A or Physics137A, Chem120B and Chem122, or equivalents

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 3-3 hours of lecture and 0-2 hours of voluntary per week

Additional Format: Three hours of lecture and zero to two hours of voluntary per week.

Advanced Quantum Mechanics: Read Less [-]

CHEM 221B Advanced Quantum Mechanics 3 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022 Time dependence, interaction of matter with radiation, scattering theory. Molecular and many-body quantum mechanics. Advanced Quantum Mechanics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 221A

CHEM 222 Spectroscopy 3 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2017, Spring 2017, Spring 2015 This course presents a survey of experimental and theoretical methods of spectroscopy, and group theory as used in modern chemical research. The course topics include experimental methods, classical and quantum descriptions of the interaction of radiation and matter. Qualitative and quantitative aspects of the subject are illustrated with examples including application of linear and nonlinear spectroscopies to the study of molecular structure and dynamics and to quantitative analysis. This course is offered jointly with 122. Spectroscopy: Read More [+]

Spectroscopy: Read Less [-]

CHEM 223A Chemical Kinetics 3 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2022, Spring 2021 Deduction of mechanisms of complex reactions. Collision and transition state theory. Potential energy surfaces. Unimolecular reaction rate theory. Molecular beam scattering studies. Chemical Kinetics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 220A (may be taken concurrently)

Chemical Kinetics: Read Less [-]

CHEM C230 Protein Chemistry, Enzymology, and Bio-organic Chemistry 2 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2013 The topics covered will be chosen from the following: protein structure; protein-protein interactions; enzyme kinetics and mechanism; enzyme design. Intended for graduate students in chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular and cell biology. Protein Chemistry, Enzymology, and Bio-organic Chemistry: Read More [+]

Fall and/or spring: 10 weeks - 3 hours of lecture per week 15 weeks - 2 hours of lecture per week

Additional Format: At the instructor's discretion, this course may be taught over a 10 week period with three hours of lecture per week or over a 15 week period with two hours of lecture per week.

Also listed as: MCELLBI C214

Protein Chemistry, Enzymology, and Bio-organic Chemistry: Read Less [-]

CHEM C234 Green Chemistry: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Sustainability 3 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2013 Meeting the challenge of global sustainability will require interdisciplinary approaches to research and education, as well as the integration of this new knowledge into society, policymaking, and business. Green Chemistry is an intellectual framework created to meet these challenges and guide technological development. It encourages the design and production of safer and more sustainable chemicals and products. Green Chemistry: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Sustainability: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: One year of chemistry, including a semester of organic chemistry, or consent of instructors based on previous experience

Summer: 6 weeks - 20 hours of lecture per week

Additional Format: Three hours of Lecture per week for 15 weeks. Twenty hours of Lecture per week for 6 weeks.

Instructors: Arnold, Bergman, Guth, Iles, Kokai, Mulvihill, Schwarzman, Wilson

Also listed as: ESPM C234/PB HLTH C234

Green Chemistry: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Sustainability: Read Less [-]

CHEM C236 Energy Solutions: Carbon Capture and Sequestration 3 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2018, Spring 2017, Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2013 After a brief overview of the chemistry of carbon dioxide in the land, ocean, and atmosphere, the course will survey the capture and sequestration of CO2 from anthropogenic sources. Emphasis will be placed on the integration of materials synthesis and unit operation design, including the chemistry and engineering aspects of sequestration. The course primarily addresses scientific and engineering challenges and aims to engage students in state-of-the-art research in global energy challenges. Energy Solutions: Carbon Capture and Sequestration: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Chemistry 4B or 1B, Mathematics 1B, and Physics 7B, or equivalents

Instructors: Bourg, DePaolo, Long, Reimer, Smit

Also listed as: CHM ENG C295Z/EPS C295Z

Energy Solutions: Carbon Capture and Sequestration: Read Less [-]

CHEM C238 The Berkeley Lectures on Energy: Energy from Biomass 3 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2015, Fall 2014, Fall 2013 After an introduction to the different aspects of our global energy consumption, the course will focus on the role of biomass. The course will illustrate how the global scale of energy guides the biomass research. Emphasis will be places on the integration of the biological aspects (crop selection, harvesting, storage, and distribution, and chemical composition of biomass) with the chemical aspects to convert biomass to energy. The course aims to engage students in state-of-art research. The Berkeley Lectures on Energy: Energy from Biomass: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Biology 1A; Chemistry 1B or 4B, Mathematics 1B

Repeat rules: Course may be repeated for credit under special circumstances: Repeatable when topic changes with consent of instructor.

Instructors: Bell, Blanch, Clark, Smit, C. Somerville

Also listed as: BIO ENG C281/CHM ENG C295A/PLANTBI C224

The Berkeley Lectures on Energy: Energy from Biomass: Read Less [-]

CHEM C242 Machine Learning, Statistical Models, and Optimization for Molecular Problems 4 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2023 An introduction to mathematical optimization, statistical models, and advances in machine learning for the physical sciences. Machine learning prerequisites are introduced including local and global optimization, various statistical and clustering models, and early meta-heuristic methods such as genetic algorithms and artificial neural networks. Building on this foundation, current machine learning techniques are covered including deep learning artificial neural networks, Convolutional neural networks, Recurrent and long short term memory (LSTM) networks, graph neural networks, decision trees. Machine Learning, Statistical Models, and Optimization for Molecular Problems: Read More [+]

Objectives & Outcomes

Course Objectives: To build on optimization and statistical modeling to the field of machine learning techniques To introduce the basics of optimization and statistical modeling techniques relevant to chemistry students To utilize these concepts on problems relevant to the chemical sciences.

Student Learning Outcomes: Students will be able to understand the landscape and connections between numerical optimization, stand-alone statistical models, and machine learning techniques, and its relevance for chemical problems.

Prerequisites: Math 53 and Math 54; Chem 120A or 120B or BioE 103; or consent of intructor

Credit Restrictions: Students will receive no credit for BIO ENG C242 after completing BIO ENG 242. A deficient grade in BIO ENG C242 may be removed by taking BIO ENG 242.

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 3 hours of lecture and 1 hour of discussion per week

Additional Format: Three hours of lecture and one hour of discussion per week.

Instructor: Teresa Head-Gordon

Formerly known as: Bioengineering C242/Chemistry C242

Also listed as: BIO ENG C242

Machine Learning, Statistical Models, and Optimization for Molecular Problems: Read Less [-]

CHEM 243 Advanced Nuclear Structure and Reactions 3 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2013, Fall 2009, Fall 2008 Selected topics on nuclear structure and nuclear reactions. Advanced Nuclear Structure and Reactions: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 143 or equivalent and introductory quantum mechanics

Advanced Nuclear Structure and Reactions: Read Less [-]

CHEM 250A Introduction to Bonding Theory 1 Unit

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022 An introduction to group theory, symmetry, and representations as applied to chemical bonding. Introduction to Bonding Theory: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 200 or 201 or consent of instructor and background in the use of matrices and linear algebra

Introduction to Bonding Theory: Read Less [-]

CHEM 250B Inorganic Spectroscopy 1 Unit

Terms offered: Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2013 The theory of vibrational analysis and spectroscopy as applied to inorganic compounds. Inorganic Spectroscopy: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 250A or consent of instructor

Fall and/or spring: 6 weeks - 3 hours of lecture per week 15 weeks - 0 hours of lecture per week

Inorganic Spectroscopy: Read Less [-]

CHEM 251A Coordination Chemistry I 1 Unit

Terms offered: Fall 2018, Fall 2017, Fall 2016 Structure and bonding, synthesis, and reactions of the d-transition metals and their compounds. Coordination Chemistry I: Read More [+]

Coordination Chemistry I: Read Less [-]

CHEM 251B Coordination Chemistry II 1 Unit

Terms offered: Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Spring 2014 Synthesis, structure analysis, and reactivity patterns in terms of symmetry orbitals. Coordination Chemistry II: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 251A or consent of instructor

Coordination Chemistry II: Read Less [-]

CHEM 252A Organometallic Chemistry I 1 Unit

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Fall 2022, Fall 2021 An introduction to organometallics, focusing on structure, bonding, and reactivity. Organometallic Chemistry I: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 200 or 201 or consent of instructor

Organometallic Chemistry I: Read Less [-]

CHEM 252B Organometallic Chemistry II 1 Unit

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Fall 2022, Fall 2021 Applications of organometallic compounds in synthesis with an emphasis on catalysis. Organometallic Chemistry II: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 252A or consent of instructor

Organometallic Chemistry II: Read Less [-]

CHEM 253A Materials Chemistry I 1 Unit

Terms offered: Spring 2023, Spring 2022, Fall 2019 Introduction to the descriptive crystal chemistry and electronic band structures of extended solids. Materials Chemistry I: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 200 or 201, and 250A, or consent of instructor

Materials Chemistry I: Read Less [-]

CHEM 253B Materials Chemistry II 1 Unit

Terms offered: Spring 2023, Spring 2022, Fall 2019 General solid state synthesis and characterization techniques as well as a survey of important physical phenomena including optical, electrical, and magnetic properties. Materials Chemistry II: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 253A or consent of instructor

Materials Chemistry II: Read Less [-]

CHEM 253C Materials Chemistry III 1 Unit

Terms offered: Spring 2023, Spring 2022, Fall 2019 Introduction to surface catalysis, organic solids, and nanoscience. Thermodynamics and kinetics of solid state diffusion and reaction will be covered. Materials Chemistry III: Read More [+]

Fall and/or spring: 5 weeks - 3 hours of lecture per week

Additional Format: Three hours of Lecture per week for 5 weeks.

Instructors: Somorjai, Yang

Materials Chemistry III: Read Less [-]

CHEM 254 Bioinorganic Chemistry 1 Unit

Terms offered: Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2013 A survey of the roles of metals in biology, taught as a tutorial involving class presentations. Bioinorganic Chemistry: Read More [+]

Bioinorganic Chemistry: Read Less [-]

CHEM 260 Reaction Mechanisms 2 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022 Advanced methods for studying organic reaction mechanisms. Topics include kinetic isotope effects, behavior of reactive intermediates, chain reactions, concerted reactions, molecular orbital theory and aromaticity, solvent and substituent effects, linear free energy relationships, photochemistry. Reaction Mechanisms: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 200 or consent of instructor

Fall and/or spring: 10 weeks - 3 hours of lecture and 0 hours of voluntary per week

Additional Format: Three hours of lecture and zero hour of voluntary per week for 10 weeks.

Formerly known as: 260A-260B

Reaction Mechanisms: Read Less [-]

CHEM 261A Organic Reactions I 1 Unit

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022 Features of the reactions that comprise the vocabulary of synthetic organic chemistry. Organic Reactions I: Read More [+]

Organic Reactions I: Read Less [-]

CHEM 261B Organic Reaction II 1 Unit

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022 More reactions that are useful to the practice of synthetic organic chemistry. Organic Reaction II: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 261A or consent of instructor

Organic Reaction II: Read Less [-]

CHEM 261C Organic Reactions III 1 Unit

Terms offered: Fall 2013, Fall 2012, Fall 2011 This course will consider further reactions with an emphasis on pericyclic reactions such as cycloadditions, electrocyclizations, and sigmatropic rearrangements. Organic Reactions III: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 261B or consent of instructor

Organic Reactions III: Read Less [-]

CHEM 262 Metals in Organic Synthesis 1 Unit

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022 Transition metal-mediated reactions occupy a central role in asymmetric catalysis and the synthesis of complex molecules. This course will describe the general principles of transition metal reactivity, coordination chemistry, and stereoselection. This module will also emphasize useful methods for the analysis of these reactions. Metals in Organic Synthesis: Read More [+]

Metals in Organic Synthesis: Read Less [-]

CHEM 263A Synthetic Design I 1 Unit

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022 This course will provide an exposure to the range of catalytic reactions of organometallic systems, the identity of the catalysts for these reactions, and the scope and limitations of these reactions. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the mechanisms of homogeneous catalytic processes. Students will see the types of molecular fragments generated by catalytic organometallic chemistry and see the synthetic disconnections made possible by these reactions. The scope of transformations will encompass those forming commodity chemicals on large scale, pharmaceuticals on small scale, and both commodity and specialty polymers Synthetic Design I: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 262 or consent of instructor

Synthetic Design I: Read Less [-]

CHEM 263B Synthetic Design II 1 Unit

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022 This course will provide an exposure to the range of catalytic reactions of organometallic systems, the identity of the catalysts for these reactions, and the scope and limitations of these reactions. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the mechanisms of homogeneous catalytic processes. Students will see the types of molecular fragments generated by catalytic organometallic chemistry and see the synthetic disconnections made possible by these reactions. The scope of transformations will encompass those forming commodity chemicals on large scale, pharmaceuticals on small scale, and both commodity and specialty polymers. Synthetic Design II: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 263A or consent of instructor

Synthetic Design II: Read Less [-]

CHEM 265 Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Theory and Application 1 Unit

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022 The theory behind practical nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and a survey of its applications to chemical research. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Theory and Application: Read More [+]

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Theory and Application: Read Less [-]

CHEM 268 Mass Spectrometry 2 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2023, Spring 2022, Spring 2019 Principles, instrumentation, and application in mass spectrometry, including ionization methods, mass analyzers, spectral interpretation, multidimensional methods (GC/MS, HPLC/MS, MS/MS), with emphasis on small organic molcules and bioanalytical applications (proteins, peptides, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, noncovalent complexes); this will include the opportunity to be trained and checked out on several open-access mass spectrometers. Mass Spectrometry: Read More [+]

Fall and/or spring: 10 weeks - 3 hours of lecture per week

Additional Format: Three hours of Lecture per week for 10 weeks.

Mass Spectrometry: Read Less [-]

CHEM 270A Advanced Biophysical Chemistry I 1 Unit

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022 Underlying principles and applications of methods for biophysical analysis of biological macromolecules. Advanced Biophysical Chemistry I: Read More [+]

Fall and/or spring: 7.5 weeks - 2 hours of lecture per week

Advanced Biophysical Chemistry I: Read Less [-]

CHEM 270B Advanced Biophysical Chemistry II 1 Unit

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022 More applications of methods for biophysical analysis of biological macromolecules. Advanced Biophysical Chemistry II: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 270A or consent of instructor

Additional Format: Two hours of Lecture per week for 7.5 weeks.

Advanced Biophysical Chemistry II: Read Less [-]

CHEM C271A Chemical Biology I - Structure, Synthesis and Function of Biomolecules 1 Unit

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022 This course will present the structure of proteins, nucleic acids, and oligosaccharides from the perspective of organic chemistry. Modern methods for the synthesis and purification of these molecules will also be presented. Chemical Biology I - Structure, Synthesis and Function of Biomolecules: Read More [+]

Also listed as: MCELLBI C212A

Chemical Biology I - Structure, Synthesis and Function of Biomolecules: Read Less [-]

CHEM C271B Chemical Biology II - Enzyme Reaction Mechanisms 1 Unit

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022 This course will focus on the principles of enzyme catalysis. The course will begin with an introduction of the general concepts of enzyme catalysis which will be followed by detailed examples that will examine the chemistry behind the reactions and the three-dimensional structures that carry out the transformations. Chemical Biology II - Enzyme Reaction Mechanisms: Read More [+]

Also listed as: MCELLBI C212B

Chemical Biology II - Enzyme Reaction Mechanisms: Read Less [-]

CHEM C271C Chemical Biology III - Contemporary Topics in Chemical Biology 1 Unit

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022 This course will build on the principles discussed in Chemical Biology I and II. The focus will consist of case studies where rigorous chemical approaches have been brought to bear on biological questions. Potential subject areas will include signal transduction, photosynthesis, immunology, virology, and cancer. For each topic, the appropriate bioanalytical techniques will be emphasized. Chemical Biology III - Contemporary Topics in Chemical Biology: Read More [+]

Also listed as: MCELLBI C212C

Chemical Biology III - Contemporary Topics in Chemical Biology: Read Less [-]

CHEM 274A Programming Languages for Molecular Sciences: Python and C++ 3 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022 Course provides in-depth coverage of programming concepts and techniques required for scientific computing, data science, and high-performance computing using C++ and Python. Course will compare and contrast the functionalities of the two languages. Topics include classes, overloading, data abstraction, information hiding, encapsulation, file processing, exceptions, and low-level language features. Exercises based on molecular science problems will provide hands-on experience needed to learn these languages. Course serves as a prereq to later MSSE courses: Data Science, Machine Learning Algorithms, Software Engineering for Scientific Computing, Numerical Algorithms Applied to Computational Quantum Chemistry, and Applications Parallel Comp. Programming Languages for Molecular Sciences: Python and C++: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Prior exposure to basic programming methodology or the consent of the instructor

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 3-3 hours of lecture, 2-2 hours of discussion, and 0-2 hours of laboratory per week

Additional Format: Three hours of lecture and two hours of discussion and zero to two hours of laboratory per week.

Programming Languages for Molecular Sciences: Python and C++: Read Less [-]

CHEM 274B Software Engineering Fundamentals for Molecular Sciences 3 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022 Course will advance students’ understanding of fundamental knowledge and techniques for developing complex software. Students will gain an in-depth view of computer system architecture as well as abstraction techniques as means to manage program complexity. Students will collaboratively develop a software engineering package, gaining experience in all aspects of the software development process. Course serves as a prerequisite to later MSSE courses: Data Science, Machine Learning Algorithms, Software Engineering for Scientific Computing, Numerical Algorithms Applied to Computational Quantum Chemistry, and Applications of Parallel Computers Software Engineering Fundamentals for Molecular Sciences: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Chem 274A - MSSE’s Introduction to Programming Languages – C++ and Python -

Software Engineering Fundamentals for Molecular Sciences: Read Less [-]

CHEM 275A Introduction to Programming Languages C++ and Python 3 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2021, Fall 2020 This course provides in-depth coverage of programming concepts and techniques required for scientific computing, data science, and high-performance computing using C++ and Python. The course will compare and contrast the functionalities of the two languages. Topics include classes, overloading, data abstraction, information hiding, encapsulation, inheritance, polymorphism, file processing, templates, exceptions, container classes, and low-level language features. Numerous exercises based on molecular science problems will provide the hands-on experience needed to learn these languages Introduction to Programming Languages C++ and Python: Read More [+]

Student Learning Outcomes: Upon successfully completing this course, students will be able to A. Develop the necessary skills to effectively interact with machine learning environments. B. Acquire the skills needed to develop high-performance computing software.

Fall and/or spring: 8 weeks - 5 hours of web-based lecture and 6 hours of web-based discussion per week

Additional Format: Six hours of web-based discussion and five hours of web-based lecture per week for 8 weeks.

Introduction to Programming Languages C++ and Python: Read Less [-]

CHEM 275B Introduction to Software Engineering Best Practices 3 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2021, Fall 2020 This course will advance students’ understanding of the different steps involved in software design. Students will acquire hands-on experience in practical problems such as specifying, designing, building, testing, and delivering reliable software systems for scientific computing. Students will collaboratively develop a software engineering package, thus gaining experience in all aspects of the software development process from the feasibility study to the final delivery of the product. This course is a prerequisite to MSSE courses in Software Engineering for Scientific Computing, Computational Chemistry and Materials Science, and Parallel Computing. Introduction to Software Engineering Best Practices: Read More [+]

Student Learning Outcomes: Upon successfully completing this course, students will have the skills needed to develop high-performance computing software.

Prerequisites: Chem 275 - MSSE’s Introduction to Programming Languages – C++ and Python

Introduction to Software Engineering Best Practices: Read Less [-]

CHEM 277B Machine Learning Algorithms 3 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023 An introduction to mathematical optimization and statistics and "non-algorithmic" computation using machine learning. Machine learning prerequisites are introduced including local and global optimization, various statistical and clustering models, and early meta-heuristic methods such as genetic algorithms and artificial neural networks. Building on this foundation, current machine learning techniques are covered including Deep Learning networks, Convolutional neural networks, Recurrent and long short term memory (LSTM) networks, and support vector machines and Gaussian ridge regression. Various case studies in applying optimization, statistical modeling, and machine learning methods as classification and regression task Machine Learning Algorithms: Read More [+]

Student Learning Outcomes: A. To introduce the basics of optimization and statistical modeling techniques relevant to machine learning B. To build on optimization and statistical modeling to the recent field of machine learning techniques. C. To understand data and algorithms relevant to machine learning

Prerequisites: The students will have had MSSE courses (1) Chem 270 - Intro to Programming, (2) Chem 271 - Software Best Practices, and (3) DS100 courses

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 4 hours of lecture and 2 hours of discussion per week

Summer: 8 weeks - 4.5 hours of lecture and 5.5 hours of discussion per week

Additional Format: Four hours of lecture and two hours of discussion per week. Four and one-half hours of lecture and five and one-half hours of discussion per week for 8 weeks.

Machine Learning Algorithms: Read Less [-]

CHEM 278 Ethical Topics for Professional Software Engineering 1 Unit

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022 This course will expose students to applied ethics in professional ethics, information technology, intellectual property, and corporate ethics that are topic relevant to the MSSE degree. Ethical Topics for Professional Software Engineering: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Acceptance into the MSSE program

Fall and/or spring: 5 weeks - 1 hour of web-based lecture and 1 hour of web-based discussion per week

Additional Format: One hour of web-based discussion and one hour of web-based lecture per week for five weeks.

Ethical Topics for Professional Software Engineering: Read Less [-]

CHEM 279 Numerical Algorithms applied to Computational Quantum Chemistry 3 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023 Introduction to numerical algorithms, their application to computational quantum chemistry, and best practices for software implementation and reuse. This course covers a toolbox of useful algorithms from applied mathematics that are used in physical simulations. Illustrated via computer implementation of density functional theory for modeling chemical reaction mechanisms from quantum mechanics. Topics covered include local optimization, numerical derivatives and integration, dense linear algebra the symmetric eigenvalue problem, the singular value decomposition, and the fast Fourier transform. Students are guided through principles of procedural and object-oriented programming C++ and usage of efficient numerical libraries.. Numerical Algorithms applied to Computational Quantum Chemistry: Read More [+]

Course Objectives: 1. To introduce computer-based physical simulation via computational quantum chemistry. 2. To develop the core numerical algorithms needed to efficiently implement computational quantum chemistry methods, as well as other physical simulations. 3. To reinforce programming skills directed to sustainable software as well as intelligent use of optimized libraries to implement numerical kernels.

Prerequisites: Students will have had MSSE courses (1) Chem 275A Intro to Programming, (2) Chem 275B Software Best Practices, and (3) Data Science 100 courses. In addition, undergraduate physical chemistry (Chem 120A or equivalent) or permission of instructor is required

Repeat rules: Course may be repeated for credit without restriction.

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 3 hours of lecture and 3 hours of discussion per week

Additional Format: Three hours of lecture and three hours of discussion per week.

Numerical Algorithms applied to Computational Quantum Chemistry: Read Less [-]

CHEM 280 Foundations of Programming and Software Engineering for Molecular Sciences 2 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022 This course provides an overview of topics relevant to programming and creating software projects. The course will be taught in collaboration with members of the Molecular Sciences Software Institute (MolSII). Students will learn basic syntax, use cases, and ecosystems for Python and C++. Students will become familiar with tools and practices commonly used in software development such as version control, documentation, and testing. Central to this course is a hands on molecular simulation project where students work in groups to create a software package using concepts taught in the course. Foundations of Programming and Software Engineering for Molecular Sciences: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Acceptance to MSSE program

Fall and/or spring: 2 weeks - 20 hours of lecture per week

Additional Format: Twenty hours of lecture per week for two weeks.

Foundations of Programming and Software Engineering for Molecular Sciences: Read Less [-]

CHEM 281 Software Engineering for Scientific Computing 3 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023 The course covers computer architecture and software features that have the greatest impact on performance. It addresses debugging and performance tunning, detecting memory and stack overwrites, malloc corruption, hotspot, paging, cache misses. A toolbox with common algorithms: sorting, searching, hashing, trees, graph traversing, is followed by common patterns used in object-oriented design. It describes programming paradigms , dynamic libraries, distributed architectures, and services. Lectures on linear algebra and performance libraries are provided as background for future courses. HPC paradigms and GPU programming are introduced. Software packaging, extensibility, and interactivity is followed by team development, testing and hardening. Software Engineering for Scientific Computing: Read More [+]

Course Objectives: The objective of this recurrent course is to equip students with the skills and tools every software engineer must master for a successful professional career.

Prerequisites: Students will have had MSSE courses (1) C275A Intro to Programming, (2) C275B Software Best Practices. Students are expected to be familiar with programming in C++ and have a basic understanding of LINUX. Additional materials will be provided for students to peruse as necessary

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 3 hours of lecture, 1 hour of discussion, and 1 hour of laboratory per week

Additional Format: Three hours of lecture and one hour of discussion and one hour of laboratory per week.

Software Engineering for Scientific Computing: Read Less [-]

CHEM 282 MSSE Leadership Bootcamp 2 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022 This boot camp for the Master of Molecular Science and Software Engineering program is a two-week intensive course that introduces program participants to the leadership, management and entrepreneurial skills necessary in today’s professional environment. Using the capstone project as a baseline, this course aims to provide program participants an understanding of the key aspects of management and leadership disciplines; team and organization dynamics; leading and participating in cross functional teams; engineering economic, finance and accounting concepts; effective communication skills and project management. MSSE Leadership Bootcamp: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Concurrent enrollment in Chem 283 Capstone Project Course

Fall and/or spring: 2 weeks - 17-17 hours of lecture and 25-25 hours of discussion per week

Additional Format: Course meets 9am - 5pm everyday (including weekends) for 2 weeks.

MSSE Leadership Bootcamp: Read Less [-]

CHEM 283 MSSE Capstone Project Course 3 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022 This course provides students with a multifaceted experience managing a project involving the application and development of software for Computational Sciences. Students exercise leadership, team building, and critical thinking skills resulting in a Capstone project deliverables and final report. Capstone projects are an essential part of the MSSE program because students transfer skills learned in other MSSE courses to a real-world application in particular applying several software engineering, algorithmic and scientific concepts This course is also designed to be tightly integrated with MSSE’s Leadership Bootcamp. Capstone projects are developed with MSSE industrial and academic partners, individually or in cross-functional teams. MSSE Capstone Project Course: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: All courses in the MSSE program curriculum are prerequisite of the Capstone Project course. Concurrent enrollment in Chem 282-MSSE Leadership Bootcamp and CS267-Applications of Parallel Computers is required

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 1-1 hours of lecture and 2-2 hours of discussion per week

Additional Format: One hour of lecture and two hours of discussion per week.

MSSE Capstone Project Course: Read Less [-]

CHEM 295 Special Topics 1 - 3 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023 Lecture series on topics of current interest. Recently offered topics: Natural products synthesis, molecular dynamics, statistical mechanics, molecular spectroscopy, structural biophysics, organic polymers, electronic structure of molecules and bio-organic chemistry. Special Topics: Read More [+]

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 1-3 hours of lecture per week

Additional Format: One to Three hour of Lecture per week for 15 weeks.

Grading: Offered for satisfactory/unsatisfactory grade only.

Special Topics: Read Less [-]

CHEM 298 Seminars for Graduate Students 1 - 3 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023 In addition to the weekly Graduate Research Conference and weekly seminars on topics of interest in biophysical, organic, physical, nuclear, and inorganic chemistry, there are group seminars on specific fields of research. Seminars will be announced at the beginning of each semester. Seminars for Graduate Students: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Graduate standing

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 1-3 hours of colloquium per week

Additional Format: One to three hours of colloquium per week.

Seminars for Graduate Students: Read Less [-]

CHEM 299 Research for Graduate Students 1 - 9 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023 Facilities are available to graduate students pursuing original investigations toward an advanced degree in Chemistry or related fields at the University of California, Berkeley. Investigations may include experiment, theory, data analysis, and dissemination of accomplishments or discoveries in the form of oral and written presentations or manuscripts submitted for peer-reviewed publication. Such work is done under the supervision and direction of a faculty member or their designee. Research for Graduate Students: Read More [+]

Course Objectives: Provide opportunities for graduate students to engage in original research under the direction, support, and mentorship of a faculty member in the chemistry department at UC Berkeley.

Student Learning Outcomes: Students will learn the skills and techniques necessary to complete a PhD in the field of Chemistry and ultimately become a world expert in their thesis research area. Students will show progress in the following areas related to their chosen field of study, including, but not limited to the following: Creativity, intellectual ownership, initiative, technical proficiency, resilience, communication both orally and in writing, ability to solve challenging problems, broad understanding of relevant disciplinary background (literature), the ability to initiate new research directions aimed toward solving important scientific challenges.

Prerequisites: Graduate standing. Consent of Instructor Required

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 0-0 hours of independent study per week

Additional Format: Zero hour of independent study per week.

Research for Graduate Students: Read Less [-]

CHEM 300 Professional Preparation: Supervised Teaching of Chemistry 2 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023 Discussion, curriculum development, class observation, and practice teaching in chemistry. Professional Preparation: Supervised Teaching of Chemistry: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Graduate standing and appointment as a graduate student instructor

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 2 hours of seminar per week

Additional Format: Two hours of Seminar per week for 15 weeks.

Subject/Course Level: Chemistry/Professional course for teachers or prospective teachers

Professional Preparation: Supervised Teaching of Chemistry: Read Less [-]

CHEM 301 Pre-High School Chemistry Classroom Immersion 1 Unit

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023 Provides training and opportunity for graduate students to make presentations in local public schools. Training ensures that presenters are aware of scientific information mandated by the State of California for particular grade levels, and that presentations are intellectually stimulating, relevant to the classroom students' interests, and age-appropriate. Time commitment an average of two to three hours/week, but actual time spent is concentrated during preparation and classroom delivery of presentations, which are coordinated between teachers' needs and volunteers' availability. Pre-High School Chemistry Classroom Immersion: Read More [+]

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 1 hour of lecture per week

Additional Format: One hour of lecture per week (average).

Instructor: Bergman

Pre-High School Chemistry Classroom Immersion: Read Less [-]

CHEM 301A Undergraduate Lab Instruction 2 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016 Tutoring of students in 1AL and 1B laboratory. Students attend one hour of the regular GSI preparatory meeting and hold one office hour per week to answer questions about laboratory assignments. Undergraduate Lab Instruction: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Junior standing or consent of instructor; 1A, 1AL, and 1B with grades of B- or higher

Repeat rules: Course may be repeated for credit up to a total of 4 units.

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 1 hour of lecture and 4 hours of tutorial per week

Additional Format: One hour of Lecture and Four hours of Tutorial per week for 15 weeks.

Grading: Offered for pass/not pass grade only.

Undergraduate Lab Instruction: Read Less [-]

CHEM 301B Undergraduate Chemistry Instruction 2 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016 Tutoring of students in 1A-1B. Students attend a weekly meeting on tutoring methods at the Student Learning Center and attend 1A-1B lectures. Undergraduate Chemistry Instruction: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Sophomore standing; 1A, 1AL, and 1B with grades of B- or higher

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 1 hour of lecture and 5 hours of tutorial per week

Additional Format: One hour of lecture and five hours of tutoring per week.

Formerly known as: 301

Undergraduate Chemistry Instruction: Read Less [-]

CHEM 301C Chemistry Teacher Scholars 2 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2020, Fall 2019 The Chemistry Undergraduate Teacher Scholar Program places undergraduate students as apprentice instructors in lower division laboratory and discussion sections. In a weekly meeting with instructors, participants learn about teaching, review chemistry knowledge, and are coached to mentor students. Chemistry Teacher Scholars: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Chemistry 1A or Chemistry 4A or equivalent. Consent of instructor required

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 1.5-1.5 hours of lecture and 1-1 hours of discussion per week

Additional Format: One and one-half hours of lecture and one hour of discussion per week.

Chemistry Teacher Scholars: Read Less [-]

CHEM 301D Undergraduate Chemistry Course Instruction 1 - 2 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016 Tutoring of students enrolled in an undergraduate chemistry course. Undergraduate Chemistry Course Instruction: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Junior standing or consent of instructor; completion of tutored course with a grade of B- or better

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 2-4 hours of tutorial per week

Additional Format: Weekly meeting with instructor of tutored course and two to four hours of tutoring.

Undergraduate Chemistry Course Instruction: Read Less [-]

CHEM 301T Undergraduate Preparation for Teaching or Instruction in Teaching 2 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2013 Undergraduate Preparation for Teaching or Instruction in Teaching: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Junior standing, overall GPA 3.1, and consent of instructor

Repeat rules: Course may be repeated for credit up to a total of 8 units.

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 2-3 hours of lecture per week

Additional Format: Two or three hours of lecture and one hour of teacher training per week.

Undergraduate Preparation for Teaching or Instruction in Teaching: Read Less [-]

CHEM 301W Supervised Instruction of Chemistry Scholars 2 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016 Tutoring of students in the College of Chemistry Scholars Program who are enrolled in general or organic chemistry. Students attend a weekly meeting with instructors. Supervised Instruction of Chemistry Scholars: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Sophomore standing and consent of instructor

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 1 hour of independent study and 4-5 hours of tutorial per week

Additional Format: One hour of lecture and three or four hours of tutoring per week.

Supervised Instruction of Chemistry Scholars: Read Less [-]

CHEM 375 Professional Preparation: Supervised Teaching of Chemistry 2 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2021 Discussion, curriculum development, class observation, and practice teaching in chemistry. Professional Preparation: Supervised Teaching of Chemistry: Read More [+]

CHEM 602 Individual Study for Doctoral Students 1 - 8 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016 Individual study in consultation with the major field adviser, intended to provide an opportunity for qualified students to prepare themselves for the various examinations required of candidates for the Ph.D. degree. May not be used for unit or residence requirements for the doctoral degree. Individual Study for Doctoral Students: Read More [+]

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 1-8 hours of independent study per week

Summer: 8 weeks - 1.5-15 hours of independent study per week

Additional Format: One to Eight hour of Independent study per week for 15 weeks. One and one-half to Fifteen hours of Independent study per week for 8 weeks.

Subject/Course Level: Chemistry/Graduate examination preparation

Individual Study for Doctoral Students: Read Less [-]

CHEM 700 QB3 Colloquium for Graduate Students 0.0 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2023, Spring 2022, Spring 2021 Weekly Graduate colloquium on topics of interest in QB3 research. QB3 Colloquium for Graduate Students: Read More [+]

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 1-2 hours of colloquium per week

Additional Format: One to two hours of colloquium per week.

Formerly known as: Chemistry 999

QB3 Colloquium for Graduate Students: Read Less [-]

Contact Information

Department of chemistry.

419 Latimer Hall

Phone: 510-642-5882

Fax: 510-642-9675

Department Chair

Matthew Francis

724 Latimer Hall

Phone: 510-643-9915

[email protected]

Vice Chair of Biological Graduate Program

Michelle Chang

125 Lewis Hall

Phone: 510.642.8545

[email protected]

Sr. Vice Chair of Synthetic Graduate Program

Thomas Maimone

826 Latimer Hall

Phone: 510-642-4488

[email protected]

Vice Chair of Physical Graduate Program

David Limmer

210 Gilman Hall

[email protected]

Vice Chair of Synthetic Graduate Program

Felix Fischer

699 Tan Hall

[email protected]

Student Affairs Officer

Phone: 510-642-5884

[email protected]

Ellen Levitan

Phone: 510-642-5883

[email protected]

Deborah Gray

[email protected]

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Graduate Program: Chemistry

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The Department of Chemistry at the University of Southern California is located at the University Park Campus in the historical Figueroa Corridor of downtown Los Angeles. Our department has a vibrant community of over 30 faculty members active in research who serve approximately 250 undergraduates, 175 graduate students, and 50 postdoctoral associates. The work of USC labs demonstrates strength in each of the traditional areas of chemistry: organic and inorganic chemistry, chemical biology, experimental physical chemistry, and theoretical chemistry. Our mission is to train chemists at both the undergraduate and graduate level and prepare them for rewarding careers in what is known as “the central science.”

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Undergraduate.

We offer five distinct majors. Each combines rigorous coursework, hands-on training with the latest chemical instrumentations, and a rich, independent research experience. These prepare our graduates to pursue professional careers in the field of chemical and molecular sciences and/or to continue their studies towards advanced degrees.

The Department of Chemistry is continuously training around 175 Ph.D. students in various areas of modern chemistry. Graduate students have ample opportunities to study with highly qualified faculty members, conduct supervised and independent research, pursue research funding, present at conferences, and receive excellent mentorship. These opportunities ensure preparedness for careers in academia and/or industry.

Faculty in the Department of Chemistry are active members of several interdisciplinary research centers and programs. They work together with graduate students, undergraduate students, and postdoctoral researchers to develop novel solutions to scientific problems and address key challenges facing society. Through collaboration and ground-breaking research, the community of chemists at USC make a global impact.

Department News

The picazo lab discovers new reactivity in iron catalysis, breaking the constraints of aromaticity, the pratt lab helps to advance treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, awards and announcements, introducing the latest agilent fellows, dr. alessandro coradini and dr. matthew sarnowski, surya prakash is appointed distinguished professor of chemistry and chemical engineering and materials science, supported by the humboldt research fellowship, prof. smaranda marinescu takes her research abroad to the max planck institute, prof. michael inkpen receives prestigious nsf career award, is green hydrogen the fuel of the future, professor anna krylov receives usc dornsife’s 2021 communicator of the year award, a quick guide to climate change jargon – what experts mean by mitigation, carbon neutral and 6 other key terms, @uscchemistry.

The Pratt lab has recently made an exciting discovery regarding posttranslational modifications (PTMs) which is described in their publication in the February 2024 issue of 𝘕𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘊𝘩𝘦𝘮𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘭 𝘉𝘪𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘺.

Read more here: https://dornsife.usc.edu/chemistry/2024/02/22/the-pratt-lab-helps-to-advance-treatment-of-neurodegenerative-diseases-2/

#chemtwitter

Our first publication of the year titled “Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction to Formate by a Cobalt Phosphino-Thiolate Complex” is now online at Chem. Sci. @ChemicalScience .

Congratulations Dr. Intrator, David, Frank, Ellie, and Christine! https:// pubs.rsc.org/en/Content/Art icleLanding/2024/SC/D3SC06805F …

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Response to COVID-19 Environmental Health and Safety Schedule of Classes Office of Postdoctoral Affairs USC Chemistry Libraries

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Key Personnel

Department Chair Prof. Peter Z. Qin

Department Vice-Chair of Strategic Planning Prof. Matthew R. Pratt

Department Director of Undergraduate Education Prof. Barry C. Thompson

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Division Heads Prof. Chi H. Mak, Physical/Theoretical Prof. G. K. Surya Prakash, Organic/Materials Prof. Richard L. Brutchey, Inorganic Prof. Vadim Cherezov, Chemical Biology

CHEM 542 - Nucleic Acid Chemistry (3)

U.S. News Releases 2024 Best Graduate Programs Rankings

Find the top-ranked graduate schools in business, education, law, nursing and other fields.

U.S. News Ranks Best Graduate Schools

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To help prospective graduate students find a school that fits their needs, U.S. News released the 2024 rankings for multiple graduate fields.

Depending on the job or field, earning a graduate degree may lead to higher earnings, career advancement and specialized skill development.

But with several types of degrees and hundreds of graduate schools, it can be difficult to narrow down the options. To help prospective graduate students find a school that fits their needs, U.S. News released its 2024 Best Graduate Schools rankings today. They evaluate business, education, fine arts, health, law, library studies, nursing, public affairs, science, and social sciences and humanities graduate programs. Medical school and engineering rankings are not being released at this time.

A notable methodology change includes a new salary indicator based on profession in the business rankings.

Additionally, for the first time in four years, there are new rankings for a blend of doctoral and master's programs in audiology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, pharmacy, nurse midwifery and speech-language pathology. Graduate programs in nurse anesthesia and social work are also ranked for the first time since 2016 and 2022, respectively. Those and other specialty rankings are based on reputation ratings from scholars at other surveyed schools.

Read each program's specific methodology for the most detailed explanations of all the changes. The rankings are one source of information among many that prospective college students can use to inform their college decision. Below is a summary of the top-ranked schools in four major graduate program areas:

Best Law Schools

Best business schools, best nursing schools, best education schools.

Among the top 10 law schools . Yale Law School in Connecticut and California-based  Stanford Law School shared the top spot again. The  University of Chicago Law School in Illinois maintained its No. 3 rank, followed by a four-way tie at No. 4: Duke University School of Law in North Carolina, Harvard Law School in Massachusetts, the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School and the University of Virginia School of Law .

Columbia Law School in New York ranked No. 8 again, while there was a three-way tie for No. 9: New York University School of Law , Northwestern University's Pritzker School of Law in Illinois and the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor Law School .

Looking beyond the top 10, multiple law schools moved up in the rankings. William & Mary Law School in Virginia, for instance, jumped nine spots from a tie at No. 45 to a five-way tie at No. 36.

U.S. News also ranked 13 law specialties: business/corporate, clinical training, constitutional, contracts/commercial, criminal, dispute resolution, environmental, health care, intellectual property, international, legal writing, tax and trial advocacy. (You can filter by specialty on the  main ranking page .)

Meanwhile, in the  part-time law school rankings – which consists of law schools with at least 20 part-time students enrolled in fall 2022 and fall 2023 – the top three stayed the same. The  Georgetown University Law Center in Washington, D.C., is once again at the top while D.C.-based  George Washington University Law School , now No. 3, switched places with the  Fordham University School of Law in New York City, which claimed second place.

Previously ranked at No. 3 and No. 6 respectively, the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School and Stanford Graduate School of Business took the top spot in this year's full-time MBA program rankings . Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management and the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business moved down from their previous places in the top two to tie at No. 3.

While the top 10 mostly consists of the same schools as last year, both the Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley and the University of Virginia's Darden School of Business joined those ranks this year. UC Berkeley rose from a three-way tie at No. 11 to a three-way tie at No. 7, while UVA moved up four spots from No. 14 to a tie at No. 10.

Farther down the full-time MBA rankings, there were some big changes. For example, Pitt's Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business soared 39 spots from a tie at No. 86 to a tie at No. 47.

Meanwhile, the very top of the part-time MBA rankings looks similar to last year, with the same schools in the top 5: UChicago, UC Berkeley, Northwestern, NYU's Leonard N. Stern School of Business and the Anderson School of Management at the University of California—Los Angeles. But UChicago took the No. 1 spot from UC Berkeley this year.

Moving up from No. 2, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing in Maryland tied with Emory University's Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing in Georgia to claim the top spot in this year's nursing master's program rankings. Duke University School of Nursing in North Carolina climbed up by one to claim the third spot.

Johns Hopkins ranked No. 1, as it did last year, in the Doctor of Nursing Practice program rankings. George Mason University School of Nursing in Virginia – which reported more graduates and resources per faculty – soared from a four-way tie at No. 39 to take the No. 2 spot. Duke tied with the University of Washington School of Nursing to round out the top three.

Duke also ranked No. 1 in all of the ranked nursing master's nursing practice specialties, including administration, family, both acute and primary care adult gerontology, and mental health.

Once again, Teachers College, Columbia University in New York was No. 1 in the graduate education schools rankings. This year, however, it tied with the University of Wisconsin—Madison School of Education , which climbed two spots.

The University of Michigan—Ann Arbor's School of Education dropped from the top position to tie with the UCLA School of Education and Information Studies at No. 3. UCLA was previously tied at No. 7.

U.S. News also ranks nine education specialties, with the College of Education at Michigan State University claiming the top spot in the following categories: curriculum and instruction, educational administration, elementary teacher education, higher education administration and secondary teacher education.

Searching for a grad school of education? Access our  complete rankings  of Best Graduate Schools.

Grad Degree Jobs With $100K+ Salaries

Tags: students , graduate schools , medical school , business school , law school , education graduate school , engineering graduate school , MBAs , nursing programs

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Graduate Programs

• Biochem & MolBiophysics PhD

Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics PhD

The Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics PhD Program ranks in the top 10 nationally and represents a traditional strength in the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department at UCSD. The goal of the program is to prepare students for careers in the biochemical sciences as researchers and educators by expanding their knowledge of structural biology, protein, RNA, and lipid biochemistry, experimental and computational biophysics, and systems biology while developing their ability for critical analysis, creativity, and independent study. A high graduation rate in an average of just over five years can be attributed to the quality of applicants admitted, the flexibility of our program of study, the opportunity for students to begin research in the first year, and the affordability of education made possible by our generous financial support policies.

Program Overview

Programs of study are tailored to the needs of individual students, based on their prior training and research interests. However, progress to degree is generally similar for all students. During the first year, students take courses, begin their teaching apprenticeships, choose research advisors, and embark on their thesis research; students whose native language is not English must pass an English proficiency examination. Beginning the first summer, the emphasis is on research, although courses of special interest may be taken throughout a student's residency. At the end of their first year, students choose the departmental members of their thesis committee and begin to prepare a written research proposal. During their second year, they complete their research proposal and defend it orally. In the third year, students advance to candidacy for the doctorate by defending the topic, preliminary findings, and future research plans for their dissertation. Subsequent years focus on thesis research and writing the dissertation. Most students graduate during their fifth year.

Research Opportunities

Research opportunities for graduate students are comprehensive and interdisciplinary, spanning biochemistry; biophysics; structural biology, protein, RNA, and lipid biochemistry, experimental and computational biophysics, and systems biology. Please refer to the faculty pages for full descriptions of the on-going research of faculty in the Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics PhD Program. State-of-the-art facilities and laboratories support these research programs.

UCSD is a thriving community that stretches across campus with opportunities for research and collaborations among a large number of faculty in the Division of Biology, the Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, the School of Medicine, the La Jolla Institute of Immunology, the Salk Institute, and many others.

Special Training Programs

Interdisciplinary research and collaboration at UCSD is enhanced through a variety of training grants. These programs provide financial support for exceptional graduate and postdoctoral scholars and also unite researchers from across campus and throughout the La Jolla research community in special seminars, retreats, and courses. Doctoral students usually apply for training grants in their second year.

• Molecular Biophysics Training Grant
• Contemporary Approaches to Cancer Cell Signaling and Communication
• Interfaces Graduate Training Program
• Molecular Pharmacology Training Program

Teaching apprenticeships are a vital and integral part of graduate student training, and four quarters of teaching are normally required. See the Teaching Assistants page to apply. Students can gain experience teaching both discussion and laboratory sections. Excellence in teaching is stressed, and the department provides a thorough training program covering both fundamentals and special techniques for effective instruction. Further training is provided by the Teaching and Learning Commons on campus. Performance is evaluated every quarter, and awards are bestowed quarterly for outstanding teaching performance.

Financial Support

Students in good academic standing receive a 12-month stipend; fees and tuition are also provided. Support packages come from a variety of sources, including teaching and research assistantships, training grants, fellowships, and awards. Special fellowships are awarded to outstanding students based on their admission files. See Ph.D. Program Support Policy for more information.

Health and Dental Plan

A primary health care program, major medical plan, and dental plan are among the benefits provided by the University's registration fee (see Graduate Student Health Insurance Program, GSHIP) . Minor illnesses and injuries can usually be treated at the Student Health Center . Counseling is provided free of charge through Counseling and Psychological Services .

Creative, bright, and motivated students from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. We admit for Fall quarter entrance only. The application deadline is in mid-December. The Admissions Committee reviews files individually and in comparison to others, and offers are made beginning mid-January. Admitted applicants are invited to visit the campus. Application information is available here . See UCSD Ph.D. Admissions FAQ page for general information.

PostGraduate Placement

Graduates typically obtain jobs in academia or in the biotech/pharmaceutical industry. La Jolla is home to the third largest Biotech/Pharmaceutical industry mecca. Many of our alumni stay in San Diego and obtain positions in one of the over 300 companies that are located near UCSD. During their PhD, students can take advantage of the many internships that are available at these companies. A large proportion of our graduates attain postdoctoral research positions in leading academic institutions. The Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics Program provides career advising throughout the PhD. UCSD's Career Services Center and the Physical Sciences Student Success Center provides many resources for students, including the chance to videotape yourself in a mock interview!

• BMB Degree Requirements
• BMB Financial Support
• Chemistry PhD
• Masters Program
• Joint Doctoral Program
• Teaching Assistants
• Student Spotlight
• Graduate Events
• Course Offerings
• Room Requests

National Science Foundation (NSF) Announces 2024 Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) Awardees

Five ccs student awardees, six honorable mentions for renowned fellowship.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) announced the 2024 Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) awardees. Five current and past College of Creative Studies (CCS) students were selected for the fellowship and six current CCS students received honorable mentions. In total, there were sixteen fellowship recipients and fifteen honorable mentions from UC Santa Barbara. The College community congratulates these future trailblazers as they pursue endeavors aimed at positively impacting society! 

2024 CCS Student Awardees: 

—Mikolaj Godzik ‘23 (CCS Biology)

—Tyler Nelson Tachibana Pennebaker ‘19 (CCS Physics)

—Graham Sharp ‘23 (CCS Physics)

—Charles Nicholas Thrift ‘22 (CCS Biology)

—Ashley Yeh ‘24 (CCS Biology)

2024 CCS Student Honorable mentions:

—Ricardo Isaac Espinosa Lima ‘22 (CCS Biology)

—Vivian Hoang ‘22 (CCS Biology)

—Sriram Vish Ramamurthy ‘22 (CCS Biology)

—Luca Vito Di Raimondo Scharrer ‘22 (CCS Physics)

—Marina Ivaylova Stoilova ‘23 (CCS Biology)

—Guy Wilks ‘24 (CCS Computing) 

"The College of Creative Studies is thrilled to celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of our current and past students who have been awarded the prestigious NSF Graduate Research Fellowship. These fellowships really highlight the creativity and dedication of our students and as these amazing scholars embark on their graduate studies, we are confident that they will make contributions that exemplify the spirit of innovation and discovery that defines us here in CCS. Congratulations!" —Timothy Sherwood, CCS Interim Dean

Experiential learning is at the center of student learning at CCS, including preparing our students for those interested in pursuing scholarly endeavors. The College recognizes the vital role that its faculty play in mentoring its curious and passionate students with 70 percent of those in STEM majors pursuing advanced degrees at the masters and doctoral levels, according to a past alumni survey. CCS Biology Faculty John Latto and Claudia Tyler lead an annual colloquium on navigating the graduate school application process, including information about the GRFP. In addition, previous recipients of the GRFP have been invited to return to campus to inspire and share their journeys with current students considering applying.

The GRFP is a distinguished fellowship program that supports outstanding graduating seniors and early-stage graduate students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields who intend on pursuing research-based masters and doctoral degrees and show potential for significant research achievements. As the oldest graduate fellowship of its kind, the GRFP has a legacy of selecting recipients who go on to achieve significant research achievements in their academic and professional endeavors.

Fellows receive a three-year annual stipend and a cost-of-education allowance covering tuition and fees to conduct research at any accredited U.S. institution offering graduate education. In addition, these fellows have opportunities for international research and professional development. These NSF Fellows are anticipated to become leaders in STEM research, education, and innovation. 

Again, congratulations to the 2024 awardees! CCS invites NSF GRFP recipients and others who went on to scholarly endeavors to return to the College to share their graduate experiences with current students.

• Equity & Inclusion

U.S. News & World Report ranks UC Berkeley computer science graduate program No. 1

UC Berkeley’s computer science graduate program was ranked first in the nation for the second year in a row by U.S. News & World Report , according to 2024 rankings  released April 8.

Berkeley’s program in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences shared the top spot with computer science programs at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Stanford University and Carnegie Mellon University. 

Several other Berkeley graduate programs in business, public health, public affairs and more were listed in the top 20 for their disciplines. These rankings are based on a survey of academics at peer institutions, according to U.S. News .

Berkeley’s Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences is shared by the College of Computing, Data Science, and Society and the College of Engineering. Learn more about Berkeley’s computer science graduate program.

U.S. News & World Report Rankings

The College of Chemistry consistently earns top rankings* nationally and globally, standing out among a select few chemistry colleges by various metrics. Moreover, our individual disciplines consistently maintain top positions within all chemistry programs.

*U.S. News undergraduate rankings are published in the fall for the coming year; graduate numbers are formulated in early spring for the following year.

Public University

#1 ranked U.S. top public university

#1 U.S. graduate chemistry program

Chem Engineering

#2 U.S. chemical engineering grad program

#4 U.S. chemical engineering undergrad program

Additional Rankings

U.S. News & World Report University of California, Berkeley Rankings

U.S. News & World Report University of California Berkeley's Graduate School Rankings