University of Washington

Overview

The Master of Science in Applied Chemical Science and Technology at the University of Washington is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of advanced chemical science principles, integrating rigorous coursework with faculty-guided research opportunities. Students can choose between a non-thesis track, typically completed in one year, or a thesis track that generally requires around two years to finish.

• Degree: Master of Science (MS) in Applied Chemical Science and Technology
• Duration: Approximately 12 months (non-thesis track); Approximately 24 months (thesis track)
• Credits: Completion involves a blend of graduate courses and research or capstone requirements, with the total credit hours varying by track.
• Delivery: The program is offered through the University of Washington’s chemistry department, with potential remote learning resources available.
• Language of instruction: English
• Application: Applications are submitted through the University of Washington’s graduate admissions process.

What you'll study

The curriculum is structured to emphasize advanced topics in applied chemical science, culminating in either a thesis project or a non-thesis pathway. Core areas of study include:

Core course areas (examples)

• Analytical and electrochemical methods: Analytical Electrochemistry
• Instrumentation and biological analysis: Bioinstrumental Analysis
• Separations: Chemical Separation Techniques
• Organic chemistry foundations for applied work: Organic Chemistry
• Data-driven chemical science: Data Science and Materials Informatics

Track options

• Thesis track: Involves independent research leading to a thesis under faculty supervision.
• Non-thesis track: Focuses on coursework with a brief culminating requirement, generally completed within one year.

Learning outcomes

• Utilize advanced analytical and electrochemical techniques for chemical measurements
• Implement separation methods for chemical characterization and purification
• Analyze experimental and computational data through data science and informatics
• Effectively communicate research findings through thesis or program completion requirements

Entry requirements

• Education: A bachelor’s degree in the natural sciences or engineering from a regionally accredited institution in the United States, or an equivalent degree from an accredited foreign institution.
• Minimum GPA: A minimum of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for the last 60 graded semester credits or the last 90 graded quarter credits.
• English proficiency: Required for non-native English speakers.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master of Science in Applied Chemical Science and Technology program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in the chemical industry, research laboratories, and academic institutions. The skills acquired during the program open up opportunities in fields such as pharmaceuticals, materials science, environmental science, and biotechnology, among others. Many alumni pursue roles that involve research, product development, quality control, and regulatory affairs.