College of Arts and Sciences
Chemistry (Ph.D.)
College of Arts and Sciences
Chemistry (Ph.D.)
Drive Innovation Through Chemistry — Advance with a Ph.D. from NMSU
NMSU’s Ph.D. in Chemistry is a research-intensive doctoral program designed for aspiring scholars and innovators. With emphasis areas in analytical, inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry (and including biochemistry), the program demands advanced coursework (e.g., Energy, Structure, Dynamics, Measurements), a Qualifying Exam after the first year, a written and oral Comprehensive Exam, and a strong focus on original dissertation research. If you're looking to lead in science, publish groundbreaking work, or become a tenured professor, this program offers the structure, mentorship, and support you need for peak performance.
Admission Deadlines
January 15 for fall admission and October 1 for spring admission
- Total course hours: 51
- Total dissertation credits: 18
Delivery Format
In-person
Career Pathways
A Ph.D. in Chemistry from NMSU opens doors to elite careers in academia, national laboratories, industry research and development, and beyond. Potential career opportunities include:
- University professor or principal investigator leading chemical research programs
- Senior scientist or technology director in materials or chemical companies
- Research leader at a national laboratory or government institution
- Technical advisor or consultant for regulatory agencies or global enterprises
- Innovator in biotech, pharmaceuticals, materials science, or environmental chemistry
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry? Fill out our inquiry form.
Why choose a Ph.D., in Chemistry at NMSU?
Choosing NMSU’s Ph.D. in Chemistry means entering a program tailored for deep research and professional growth. With full-time teaching or research assistantships, lab rotations, strong faculty mentoring, and a structure aligned with milestone-driven progress, students master both the process and product of scientific discovery.
The Biochemistry concentration within the Ph.D. in Chemistry at NMSU stands at the crossroads of chemical and biological discovery. Focusing on the molecular mechanisms of life, students engage in coursework and research that span metabolism, molecular genetics, biomolecular structure, and systems biology. The program requires the same rigorous Qualifying and Comprehensive exams as the broader chemistry doctorate, but with a distinct focus on life science innovation.
No GRE Required
We’re removing barriers to graduate education, which is why we don’t require the GRE.
NMSU's Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Chemistry requires at least 51 course credits, plus research and dissertation credits. The Ph.D. in chemistry is offered in the major emphasis areas of analytical, inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry and biochemistry. The graduate program is designed to teach students modern approaches to chemistry and biochemistry (courses), experimental methods to problem–solving (research), and communication skills in the discipline (seminars and colloquia). Ph.D. candidates are required to complete key courses, pass a qualifying exam after the first year, pass both a written and oral comprehensive exam before the fourth year, and prepare a written thesis and pass a final oral examination.
Take classes like:
- CHEM 475 - Central Concepts in Chemistry – Safety
- CHEM 476 - Central Concepts in Chemistry - Research Ethics
- CHEM 501 - Central Concepts in Chemistry – Energy
- CHEM 503 - Central Concepts in Chemistry – Dynamics
NMSU's Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Chemistry requires at least 51 course credits, plus research and dissertation credits. NMSU’s Ph.D. in Biochemistry gives you access to a program that blends depth of chemistry with the breadth of biology. Collaborative faculty, multi-disciplinary labs, access to cutting-edge instrumentation, and structured milestones ensure you’ll graduate ready to lead at the highest levels in life science research.
The Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry with a concentration in Biochemistry is designed to teach students modern approaches to chemistry and biochemistry (courses), experimental methods to problem–solving (research), and communication skills in the discipline (seminars and colloquia). Ph.D. candidates are required to complete key courses, pass a qualifying exam after the first year, pass both a written and oral comprehensive exam before the fourth year, and prepare a written thesis and pass a final oral examination.
Take classes like:
- CHEM 475 - Central Concepts in Chemistry – Safety
- CHEM 476 - Central Concepts in Chemistry - Research Ethics
- BCHE 542 - Biochemistry I
- BCHE 545 - Molecular and Biochemical Genetics
GPA: A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required for admission.
Prerequisites: A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required.
Application: The application includes a personal statement, CV or resume, transcripts, and three letters of recommendation.
Ready to take the next step?
Request Information
Scholarships and Financial Aid
At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.