Chemistry students accepted into the graduate program are admitted primarily to pursue a Ph.D. The Ph.D. program at UA prepares high-achieving students for senior research positions in industry or government laboratories, or a career in college-level or university-level teaching and research. A number of interdisciplinary research and training programs are also available under the Chemistry Ph.D. program including, Biological Chemistry Program, Biological Physics Program, Chemical Physics Program and others.
Primary research and coursework concentrations are available in: Analytical Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, and Chemical Education. Research and coursework may also include an emphasis in chemical physics, materials science, optical sciences, polymer sciences, surface sciences, astrochemistry, biological chemistry and several other interdisciplinary fields.
The Doctor of Philosophy with a major in chemistry is primarily a research degree. The number and selection of courses is tailored to the individual student's needs and interests according to the guidelines available from the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. A dissertation based upon original laboratory research is required. All students must pass a series of written examinations, a comprehensive examination, and a final oral defense examination.