The Master of Science in chemistry is offered in both thesis and non-thesis plans. The thesis plan, which includes a significant laboratory or theoretical research component, is particularly valuable for persons planning to pursue a future Ph.D. degree or for those preparing for, or engaged in, industrial laboratory employment. The non-thesis option is designed for those students who either cannot schedule or do not need the thesis research component, and offers opportunity for extended study of advanced chemistry for persons currently employed in industry or teaching professions, or for those who wish a more rigorous technical background ancillary to professional employment in business, law or medicine. 

With appropriate course selection, the Master of Science candidate can focus his/her graduate work in a traditional area of chemistry (analytical, biochemistry, inorganic, organic or physical) or in an interdisciplinary area such as environmental chemistry, chemical education, polymer chemistry or toxicology.