Overview
Pursue a Ph.D. in Chemistry at Pitt and Experience Research Opportunities in a Variety of Chemistry Study Areas
The University of Pittsburgh's Department of Chemistry focuses on integrating a quality classroom education with groundbreaking research opportunities at the forefront of current scientific areas of interest.
Many of the current areas of research available to Pitt graduate chemistry students include biological chemistry, computational and theoretical chemistry, diversity-oriented synthesis, materials and nanoscience, electrochemistry, natural product synthesis, and spectroscopy.
Graduate students enrolled in the chemistry program are expected to incorporate these research opportunities into their education and experience, providing a viable way to interact with faculty and develop strong relationships during their course of study at the University of Pittsburgh.
To assist with these vast research undertakings, a variety of highly technical resources and facilities are available to students. Computational resources include computers and specialized types of equipment that are frequently used to interpret data gathered during research studies. Crystallography, materials characterization, mass spectrometry, NMR, and Web-based research resources all contribute to a variety of undertakings in the lab, which allows students to pursue virtually any independent research he or she can imagine, becoming part of mainstream chemistry findings.
A diverse student body enjoys concentrations in even the most obscure areas of chemistry studies while developing new relationships with each other, and in the professional community. Interdisciplinary studies are encouraged, and many students collaborate on multiple research projects through their individual study programs.
A Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Pittsburgh prepares students for careers locally or abroad. Upon graduation, many students are offered prestigious positions at Pitt and other colleges and universities worldwide, as well as with one of many industrial businesses. These companies are encouraged to visit campus and interview graduate students on an annual basis, as an education at Pitt is highly sought among those hoping to work in the chemistry industry.
Graduate Program Students at Pitt Pursue M.D.s or Ph.D.s in Chemistry with Financial Aid Options
The Department of Chemistry at the University of Pittsburgh focuses on integrating coursework, laboratory research, grant proposals, and teaching experience. As a result, students are offered the opportunity to gain a quality education and either an M.D. or Ph.D. in Chemistry. Although students on this course track are not required to teach, assistantships are popular choices for financing and funding graduate educations in the department.
Each student is expected to pursue an individualized course of study that is created under the direction of faculty and a graduate committee. This program is considered ideal for future medical scientists, and formal coursework focuses on at least three areas of chemistry studies. These areas may include analytical chemistry, biological chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and organic and physical chemistry.
Specific course offerings in inorganic chemistry include "Physical Inorganic Chemistry and Inorganic Synthesis." For analytical chemistry options, students choose among "Electrochemistry," "Chemical Separations," and "Analytical Spectroscopy." Organic courses include "Mechanistic Organic Chemistry" and "Advanced Organic Synthesis," and physical chemistry courses may include "Quantum Mechanics and Kinetics" or "Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics." In addition, biological chemistry core courses are offered that focus on "Biomacromolecular Structure and Function" or "Chemical Biology and Bioanalytical Chemistry."
Students must maintain a "B" average or higher during their studies, and pass a comprehensive exam during their third year. Upon successful completion of the exam, an Application for Admission to Candidacy is submitted, and meetings with the Ph.D. Dissertation Committee ensue on a regular basis. In addition to this added requirement of conducting independent research, students are encouraged to attend and participate in regular graduate seminars within the department.
Full financial aid is made available through the university in the form of fellowships, teaching assistantships, and research assistantships for students who remain in good academic standing. These opportunities are available all year long to accommodate summer studies as well. Assistantships offer full tuition support, and quality health insurance coverage.
University of Pittsburgh Graduate Students Enjoy Extracurricular and Learning Opportunities in the City and Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh has been rated the "second most attractive college town in the U.S.," most likely due to extensive performing arts, professional sports, top options in health care, and museums to entertain residents and visitors alike. In addition, several industry partners located in Pittsburgh not only facilitate many internships and real-world experimentation to aid the learning process, but also become future employers of graduates.
When not in class, students may see the symphony, a show, or even take in a local or national musical act. Unique cuisine in this football-loving city also complements the many bars and nightclubs popular during long weekends away from the classroom. Other unique attractions in the city include the Botanical Gardens, the Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium, and the Andy Warhol Museum.
Steeped in Civil War era and early American history, Pennsylvania offers outdoor enthusiasts plenty of golf, state parks, and historic sites to encourage exploration among students. Underground Railroad tours, hiking and biking, and water sports are popular weekend activities to relax and unwind away from the classroom.
