Master of Chemical Sciences

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Earn an Ivy League master's degree in chemistry that offers top-rated industry connections

Your future in chemistry starts at Penn. Whether you’re currently a chemistry professional or seeking to enter the field, Penn’s rigorous Master of Chemical Sciences (MCS) prepares you to take advantage of the myriad career possibilities available in the chemical sciences. Our program equips you with theoretical and technical expertise in biological chemistry, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, environmental chemistry, and materials. 

MCS connects you with the resources of an Ivy League institution, including a faculty of leading researchers and experienced industry consultants. We provide the academic and professional opportunities you need to achieve your unique goals. Take full advantage of Penn’s expansive network and complete your research, capstone, or independent study with local and national partners or in one of the University’s stellar facilities to accelerate your career.

Where innovation in chemistry is elemental

Hear from Master of Chemical Sciences associate director Dr. Tina Morgan Ross, professors, and students about the stellar academic and professional opportunities in chemistry available to you here at Penn. Whether you are working in the field or recently graduated, our flexible program can take your career in chemistry to the next level and beyond.

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Fast facts

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62%
Percentage of international students in the Master of Chemical Sciences program
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29
Number of peer-reviewed publications
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7
Number of partnerships: 6 industry and 1 academic
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91%
Graduation rate for students in the Master of Chemical Sciences program
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Placement after graduation
45% PhD programs
(20% in Penn Chemistry)
43% industry
10% academia
6% pursuing a career in data science
2% career in law
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100%
Percentage of students placed in capstone projects
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35
Number of Penn Chemistry faculty academic advisors available to master’s students
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1
Number of patents earned by Master of Chemical Sciences alumni

Theoretical and technical expertise

A blend of core concentration courses and electives, and the opportunity to design an independent studies course, allows students to create an individualized academic schedule. Students choose from the following six chemical sciences concentrations: biochemistry, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, environmental chemistry, and materials. All MCS students complete a culminating capstone project.

See Courses and Curriculum >

Upcoming application deadlines

The priority application deadline for fall 2025 is December 15, 2024. The regular deadline is April 15, 2025.

Want to know more?

Join us for an upcoming virtual information session to hear more about the program, curriculum, and application process.

Am I eligible to apply?

Admissions to the master's program is highly selective. Learn more about applicant qualifications.

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