Penn’s Master of Chemical Sciences

Penn’s Master of Chemical Sciences student in the lab

Industry connections and research experiences designed for your success

Whether you’re currently a chemistry professional or seeking to enter the field, the University of Pennsylvania’s Master of Chemical Sciences helps you prepare for a diverse range of career possibilities. With a faculty of leading researchers and industry experts, our Master of Chemical Sciences program provides the academic and career opportunities you need to achieve your professional chemistry goals.

  • Choose from concentrations in biological chemistry, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, environmental chemistry, and materials
  • Network with chemistry professionals who work in a variety of research and applied settings
  • Gain hands-on training and research experience through our industry partnerships with Axalta, the Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, Chemical and Nanoparticle Synthesis Core (CNSC), GlaxoSmithKline, and the Monell Chemical Senses Center
  • Enroll full- or part-time, so you can pursue your education without interrupting your career
  • Complete the 10-course program in one-and-a-half to four years, depending on your course load
  • Demonstrate your abilities to current or prospective employers and stake out a new professional niche through the capstone experience
  • Find your ideal career path with the guidance of faculty mentors and advisors

Master of Chemical Sciences ’19
PhD candidate, University of Massachusetts Amherst

“I was attracted to the program because I wanted to do research on my own and write my own thesis. Now I’m sure of what I want to do after graduation. The master’s degree opened up my world.”

Master of Chemical Sciences ’20
Research Specialist, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine

“My advisor helped guide me in the right direction and stay positive when the coursework got challenging. It’s a supportive culture, it’s not ‘sink or swim,’ and that made a huge difference for me.”