PhD - Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry

The Department of Chemistry offers a rigorous program leading to the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) which prepares graduates for a variety of careers in industry, government, and academia. Our Ph.D. program is well-suited for students interested in doing in-depth study in the following areas of chemistry: analytical computational materials physical biochemistry inorganic organic theoretical Upon arrival, each student is assigned a temporary mentor to assist him/her with the transition to our Ph.D. program. In the first semester of study, graduate students are required to take placement exams in each of the five fundamental areas of chemistry—analytical, biochemistry, inorganic, organic, and physical. These are designed to assist with course placement and to diagnose any area deficiencies. In conjunction with the temporary mentor, the student develops an appropriate course schedule for the upcoming semesters. During the first semester, new graduate students attend an orientation program where faculty describe the research being conducted in their respective labs. Given the cross-disciplinary nature of our program, students are not expected to have decided upon a field of research before arriving to Georgetown; on the contrary, open-mindedness and a willingness to explore new areas are encouraged. At the conclusion of the orientation program and after meeting with five faculty members individually, the student selects a permanent research mentor. Once the student selects a research mentor, a program of research, coursework, seminars, and self-study is tailored to fit the student’s needs and interests. Since original research is the most important part of graduate study at Georgetown, the graduate program is designed to prepare and encourage students to move into research activity as soon as it is appropriate. Well prepared and motivated students may begin their thesis research in their first semester; by the end of their second semester, all students will be engaged in their thesis research.