MS in Applied Chemical Sciences Program

Master of Science (MS) in Applied Chemical Sciences

Overview

The Master of Science (MS) in Applied Chemical Sciences at Rice University is a non-thesis Professional Science Master's (PSM) degree designed for students who want to advance their careers in chemistry, materials science, biotechnology, energy, pharmaceuticals, and related industries without completing a traditional research thesis. Unlike many conventional chemistry master's programs, the Rice MS in Applied Chemical Sciences emphasizes advanced scientific training, business and leadership education, and real-world professional experience to prepare graduates for high-demand careers in industry and government.

The program is ideal for recent chemistry graduates, working professionals, career changers with a chemistry background, and educators seeking an applied, interdisciplinary graduate degree that strengthens both technical and professional skills. Students can complete the degree in as few as 16 months (three semesters) while gaining expertise that employers value.

Through a curriculum that integrates graduate-level chemistry coursework, MBA-level business and management courses, professional development, and a required internship, students develop advanced knowledge in chemical analysis, laboratory techniques, research methodologies, data analysis, scientific problem-solving, and characterization methods. They also strengthen essential leadership, communication, project management, and teamwork skills that are increasingly sought after by employers in today's science-driven workforce.

Graduates of Rice University's MS in Applied Chemical Sciences are prepared for careers in the chemical, energy, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, manufacturing, environmental, and materials industries, as well as government laboratories and research organizations. By combining rigorous STEM education with business, management, and leadership training, the program equips graduates with the interdisciplinary expertise needed to lead scientific innovation and solve complex technical challenges.

Focus Areas

  • Bioorganic Chemistry
  • Computational Chemistry & Data Science
  • Chemistry for the Energy Industry

At A Glance

  • Degree: Master of Science (MS) in Applied Chemical Sciences
  • Credit Hours: 39 credit hours of graduate coursework plus a required 3-credit professional internship
  • Time to Completion: Complete the degree in as few as 3 semesters (16 months)
  • Format: Full-time or part-time, 100% in person at Rice University in Houston, Texas
  • Curriculum: Combines advanced STEM coursework with business, management, and leadership education. View the curriculum here.
  • Professional Experience: Includes a required internship that provides hands-on industry experience
  • Career Outcomes: Prepares graduates for careers in the chemical, energy, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, materials, manufacturing, and environmental industries, as well as government laboratories and research organizations
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Faculty

  • Dr. Angel Martí, Chair
  • Dr. Raúl Hernández Sánchez, Program Advisor
  • Dr. Zachary Ball
  • Dr. James Tour
  • Dr. Eugene Zubarev
  • Dr. Han Xiao
  • Jeff Hartgerink
  • Han Xiao
  • Hans Renata
  • David Sarlah
  • Lazlo Kurti
  • Zach Ball
  • Yuan Ma
  • Quanbing Mou
  • Pernilla Wittung-Stafshede