Courses of study leading to the master of science (M.S.) and doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees in medicinal chemistry are offered. Most applicants have undergraduate degrees in chemistry, biochemistry, or pharmacy. Applicants should have completed 6 credits of organic chemistry with laboratory and 6 credits of physical chemistry prior to admission. Areas of research in medicinal chemistry include drug discovery, natural product synthesis, prodrugs, peptidomimetics, enzyme inhibitors, natural product isolation, and structure elucidation.
Degree requirements for the M.S. include a minimum of 25 credits of coursework and completion of an original research problem and thesis (6 credits). A nonthesis M.S. program is also available primarily for individuals already employed who wish to obtain a graduate degree part time. The requirements are identical to those for the thesis M.S. program except that 6 credits of additional coursework are substituted for the research requirement. An expository essay is also required.
The Ph.D. requirements include a minimum of 38 credits of coursework and 34 credits of research in medicinal chemistry. All students are required to prepare and defend an original research proposal. A residency requirement of one academic year must also be satisfied, preferably after completion of most of the required coursework.
For a more detailed account of degree requirements, courses, facilities, faculty research interests, and application procedures, please visit the Department of Medicinal Chemistry website.
