Edited By Barani Krishnan
Review & Contribution By Dr. Mia Roberts
Advance your expertise with an Online Master’s in Chemistry. Dive deeper into chemical sciences, enhance your skills, and open doors to innovative research and career opportunities.
A master’s in chemistry online helps students learn about substances’ properties, composition, and structure, building on their knowledge and skills in understanding chemistry principles. The degree also helps industry educators and professionals advance their careers. Graduates with an online master’s in chemistry can secure high-paying jobs in educational or industry settings in roles such as environmental scientists, forensic science technicians, natural sciences managers, professors, and more. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for this field is 6 percent[1], which is as fast as the average for other occupations.
Table Of Contents
Featured Online Masters Programs
FindBestDegrees.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
National University
PROGRAM: Best & Affordable Online Masters Programs
National University, headquartered in San Diego, California, was founded in 1971 to provide educational opportunities for adult learners and working professionals. It offers over 190 degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with flexible online and on-campus courses. Serving around 40,000 students and over 240,000 alumni, the university is recognized for its support of U.S. military members. Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), National University is committed to accessible and transformative higher education.
FindBestDegrees.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Southern New Hampshire University
PROGRAM: Best & Affordable Online Masters Programs
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.
We’re proud to provide affordable, accessible education that students can pursue on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, or via our innovative online platform.
SNHU has earned the GetEducated.com Best Buy and Best of Business – Best Online Degree awards and is consistently ranked as a top Military Friendly® School by G.I Jobs®.
Find the Best Online Master’s in Chemistry Programs
A good-quality master’s program has many characteristics, including appropriate accreditation, an in-depth curriculum, the availability of specializations, research opportunities, etc. These factors must be carefully considered to determine which degree best suits individual interests and professional goals. To make it easier to find a top chemistry master’s degree, our team at FBD evaluated colleges and programs from across the country and prepared a list of schools offering the best online master’s in chemistry using our proprietary methodology. Here is the list:
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| Ohio University | 020 Chubb Hall, Athens, Ohio 45701 | $9,444 | 66% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from an Online Master’s in Chemistry Degree Program
The master’s degree in chemistry online is a graduate-level program that teaches students the properties, composition, and structure of substances. This degree builds on the knowledge and skills students have gained from their undergraduate or lower degrees to develop a deeper understanding of chemistry principles. It generally requires around 30 to 45 credits and can be completed on-campus or through online learning. There are various specializations students can choose from, like nutritional science and physical chemistry, as well as thesis and non-thesis tracks, depending on students’ interests. The program is designed for those who want to advance their careers in chemistry. After graduating with the degree, individuals will be fully prepared to serve in industry or education-related settings and be eligible to work in roles such as forensic science technicians, natural science managers, chemists, etc.
Curriculum and Coursework
The curriculum of a master’s in chemistry depends on whether an individual has chosen a thesis or non-thesis track. In the non-thesis path, students may be required to complete a research paper and pass exams in addition to selecting elective courses; some core courses may also be mandated to replace the thesis and research courses. In the thesis track, students must complete the regular curriculum and research courses as part of the mandatory requirements.
Students are generally required to select a research advisor and work closely with a faculty member to complete an original thesis. After the thesis is completed, a final oral defense is required. Typically, those admitted to the master’s in chemistry program must complete coursework in math or science equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. Each school has its required coursework; however, individuals can expect some standard courses across schools and programs, including:
Physical Chemistry
In this course, students study microscopic and macroscopic phenomena in chemical systems concerning the practices, concepts, and principles of physics, such as energy, force, motion, thermodynamics, time, statistical mechanics, analytical dynamics, quantum chemistry, and chemical equilibria. They also learn about the principles of physics involved in various chemical interactions.
Basic Biochemistry
In this course, students understand the fundamentals of biochemistry, dealing with amino acids, vitamins, nucleic acids, lipids, and carbohydrates. It also involves studying chemical processes related to and within living organisms. The topics covered will draw from the subdisciplines of biology and chemistry, teaching structural biology, metabolism, and enzymology.
Analytical Chemistry
In this course, students learn the theoretical and practical usage of instruments and methods to identify, separate, and quantify matter in various forms. This essential course provides foundational knowledge for making meaningful measurements, crucial for advanced studies and professional practice in laboratories for conducting analyses.
Modern Inorganic Chemistry
This course deals with the properties of atoms, constituent elements of objects, molecular structures, and more. It includes the study of the reactions, structures, properties, and synthesis of compounds, encompassing areas such as organometallic chemistry, where students learn about metals bonded to ligands and molecules containing carbon.
Chemical Literature
This course provides students with an understanding of chemistry resources. It includes information about backgrounds, chemical properties, chemical literature, essential facts about safety, and sources such as safety data sheets. The course helps students recognize the importance of consulting literature and its significance in conducting chemical research.
Some of the other standard courses students can expect to find across programs include:
- Research and Thesis
- Science Research Writing and Literature
- Advanced Organic Synthesis: Mechanisms and Reactions
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Current Applications in Chemistry
- Adult Learning Theories
- Organic Mechanisms and Structure
- Chemical Thermodynamics
- Quantum Chemistry
- Organometallic Chemistry
- Kinetics and Mechanism
To understand more about a master’s degree program, read the comprehensive guide.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
The knowledge gained from a master’s in chemistry program can be applied to various settings. Students will have laboratory experiences through fellowships, work-study programs, and internships that provide deeper insights into chemistry. They also gain specific industry-related skills by specializing in subfields like inorganic and analytical chemistry. Throughout the chemistry master’s, learners acquire skills that will help them emerge as credible professionals in their field, including the ability to:
- Relate various advanced areas of chemistry and find interrelated patterns amongst the disciplines that can help in furthering research;
- Recognize various periodic trends and use them to explain and predict their reactivity and structures;
- Interpret the association between products and physical properties of reactants to their relevant reactivity;
- Analyze the different chemical reactions that occur in inorganic, organic, and biochemistry;
- Apply the principles of advanced chemistry to one or more related areas, including medicinal chemistry, forensic chemistry, environmental chemistry, cancer biochemistry, and planetary chemistry;
- Research and develop improved chemical processes, materials, and products, including the trial-and-error process that leads to finding unique solutions;
- Meet deadlines while conducting important research and laboratory experiments, maintain the quality of work, and prioritize tasks efficiently;
- Formulate the mechanisms that occur for organic reactions and use them for solving novel issues; and
- Evaluate relevant research literature in biochemistry, chemistry, and other related areas.
Types of Master’s Degrees Chemistry, Students Can Obtain
Prospective chemistry graduate students can choose from two degree types – the Master of Arts (MA) in Chemistry or the Master of Science (MS) in Chemistry. While the core requirements of these online master’s chemistry degrees are the same, one minor difference is that in an MS in chemistry, students must complete laboratory-based thesis projects. In an MA in chemistry, they must complete a research paper or a comprehensive examination.
Master of Arts in Chemistry
The Master of Arts in Chemistry (MA Chemistry) is designed for students seeking advanced chemistry training for careers in education, business, medicine, and related fields. It is intended for those who majored in chemistry, biochemistry, or chemical biology in their undergraduate studies and wish to take a limited number of graduate courses. This degree enhances students’ material science, research, communication, chemistry, and chemical engineering skills.
Master of Science in Chemistry
The Master of Science in Chemistry (MS Chemistry) is a technically oriented program that helps students understand various substances’ properties, structures, and compositions. This degree builds on the knowledge and skills obtained from an undergraduate program, enabling students to develop a deeper analysis of various chemical principles.
Areas of Specialization for Chemistry Students
The online master’s program in chemistry is generally broad-based, allowing students to specialize in various sub-disciplines, including physical, organic, and inorganic chemistry, chemical education, etc. Choosing the right concentration can determine the career path an individual takes. Some of the specialization options in chemistry include:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Analytical Chemistry | In this concentration, students explore the application of chemistry in the manufacturing of drugs, environmental monitoring and surveying, medical diagnosis, food production, and more. The principles learned are applied in various research fields. | Academician, analytical chemist, synthetic chemist, quality control chemist, organic chemist, forensic scientist, pharmacologist, hazardous waste chemist |
| Biochemistry | In this specialization, students study the different chemical processes related to living organisms. They learn about scientific and medical investigations in forensics, nutrition, and pharmaceuticals. This specialization also covers chemical reactions at the molecular level. | Biomedical specialist, forensic scientist, data scientist, ecologist, food or biotechnologist, pharmacologist |
| Medicinal Chemistry | This specialization helps students understand the creation and refinement of molecules to develop beneficial drugs. They will study topics from synthetic organic chemistry and learn about small molecules used to create various compounds. | Various roles in the pharmaceutical industry or medicinal chemist |
| Inorganic Chemistry | This specialization is one of the essential fields of chemistry, focusing on the behavior and synthesis of inorganic and organometallic compounds. It covers understanding chemical compounds not based on carbon, incorporating concepts from organic chemistry. | Inorganic chemist in mining or microchip manufacturing |
| Organic Chemistry | In this concentration, students study carbon compounds and evaluate the properties, structure, and reactions of organic materials and compounds. They also examine the systems and structural formulas of these compounds. | Biochemist, biophysicist, geoscientist, material engineer, physicist, natural science manager |
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
A graduate-level chemistry program typically requires between 30 and 40 credits, taking an average of 1.5 to two years of full-time study. The time to complete the degree depends on the student’s pace, coursework, and laboratory requirements. The part-time option allows students to complete the program at a more relaxed pace, requiring more than two years. Here is a summary of the time frame required to complete an online master’s in chemistry:
- Full-time master’s in chemistry: 1.5 to 2 years
- Part-time master’s in chemistry: 2 to 4 years
- Total credits required: 30 to 40
Accelerated Chemistry Programs
Many schools offer an accelerated option for pursuing an online master’s in chemistry. An accelerated program allows students to complete the same amount of coursework in less time, leading to faster graduation. These programs are preferred by those who want to enter the workforce sooner or have other commitments requiring them to finish their education more quickly. Universities like Michigan Tech[2], Boise State University[3], and Missouri State University[4] provide accelerated master’s in chemistry.
Requirements for Getting into an Online Master’s in Chemistry Program
Applicants to a master’s in chemistry program are evaluated based on their academic strengths, with common factors determining their acceptance. Typically, students must hold an undergraduate degree in science or engineering, with coursework including at least a semester of analytical or quantitative chemistry, physical chemistry, organic chemistry, and calculus. Preference is often given to those with work experience in chemistry-related occupations. Standard admission requirements for online master’s in chemistry programs include:
- Application form and fee
- Bachelor’s degree in science with courses in chemistry or related subjects
- Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 (typically required)
- Official Academic Transcripts
- Two or more Letters of Recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- Résumé (highlighting experiences in chemistry)
- GRE scores (required by some universities)
No GRE Online Master’s in Chemistry Programs
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standard test that assesses an applicant’s ability for independent study leading to the successful completion of a master’s or doctorate program. However, the requirements for the GRE may vary depending on the school or program. Some institutions offering degrees in chemistry waive the need for a GRE score, facilitating a more diverse pool of candidates to apply. Examples of universities providing master’s in chemistry programs without GRE requirements include Ohio University[5], Illinois Tech[6], and the University of Notre Dame[7]
How to Ensure an Online Master’s in Chemistry Program Is Accredited
Accreditation is vital for ensuring the quality of a college degree. It guarantees that the institution’s education meets high standards for students and potential employers. Applying to an accredited online master’s in chemistry program ensures access to federal financial aid and facilitates college transfers. The Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs[8] and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)[9] are two national-level databases where students can verify if their university or program has been accredited by organizations such as:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
The American Chemical Society (ACS)[10] promotes quality chemistry education for graduate students by approving master’s chemistry programs. ACS-approved programs ensure a rigorous chemistry education with experimental, communication, and intellectual skills to help individuals become effective professionals.
For more information on accreditation, refer to the guide to college accreditation.
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Chemistry Master’s Students
When studying at the graduate level, individuals have a solid foundation of elemental concepts of chemistry. However, free courses can widen perspectives and build upon that knowledge beyond the textbook. Popular universities and online learning platforms offer many free chemistry courses to pursue. Examples include:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Chemistry[11] | This course emphasizes the various features that assist students in tackling challenges and practicing problems to comprehend the practical applications of chemistry. It also explores determining quantitative relationships, aiding in understanding balanced chemical equations and their application. | Coursera |
| Electrochemistry[12] | This course assists learners in grasping the significance of electrochemistry and its real-life applications. It enhances their understanding of oxidized or reduced elements and elucidates the distinctions between electrochemical energy sources, differentiating them from primary renewable energy. | edX |
| Principles of Inorganic Chemistry[13] | This course delves into the properties and behaviors of inorganic compounds, encompassing minerals, metals, and organometallic compounds. Designed primarily for graduate students and above, it provides a robust background in inorganic chemistry through course materials, exams, and problem-solving scenarios. | MIT OpenCourseWare |
Ways to Pay for an Online Master’s in Chemistry Degree
Graduate-level education can indeed be expensive. While personal savings, earned income, or family contributions can cover expenses like housing, board, tuition, transportation, and library fees, seeking external funding can significantly alleviate financial pressure. Examples of such sources for those pursuing an online master’s in chemistry degree include:
Graduate assistantship
Graduate assistantships allow graduate students to work part-time in academic or research positions within their field of study. Students typically receive a stipend, salary, and benefits such as tuition waivers or subsidized health insurance in exchange for their work. These positions provide valuable professional experience and help offset the costs of graduate education.
Scholarships
Scholarships offer financial assistance for education, covering tuition, fees, and sometimes living expenses. They are awarded based on various criteria, such as academic achievement, financial need, or specific talents. Scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden of pursuing higher education, making it more accessible to deserving students.
Similar to scholarships, grants provide monetary support for students, primarily based on financial need rather than merit. Unlike loans, grant funds do not require repayment, contingent upon the recipient adhering to specified grant terms and conditions.
Employer Tuition Assistance
Employer tuition assistance is a benefit employers provide to support their employees’ pursuit of further education. This assistance may cover part or all of the tuition costs for approved courses or programs related to the employee’s job or career development. It is a valuable perk that helps employees advance their skills and qualifications while remaining employed.
Student Loans
Student loans are financial aid provided to students to cover educational expenses such as tuition, fees, and living costs. Unlike grants or scholarships, loans must be repaid over time, usually with interest. They are available from various sources, including government agencies, private lenders, and educational institutions.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a form students complete to determine eligibility for federal financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study programs. It collects information about income, assets, and family size.
Scholarships for Online Master’s in Chemistry Degree Students
Scholarships provide valuable funding for graduate-level degree programs. Many universities, private organizations, businesses, philanthropists, and community groups offer scholarships to deserving students. Examples of scholarships for chemistry master’s degrees include:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| James M. & Erma T. Freemont Scholarship Program[14] | The James M. & Erma T. Freemont Scholarship Program is open to graduate, undergraduate, and high school seniors with exceptional academic achievements. The Freemont Foundation grants scholarships to students demonstrating leadership, active participation in extracurricular activities, and community service involvement. | Varies | February annually |
| National Association for Surface Refinishing Scholarships[15] | The NASF scholarships are accessible to junior, senior, or graduate students pursuing surface sciences majors, including chemistry, chemical engineering, metallurgical engineering, materials science engineering, and material science. | $1,500 | January, annually |
| GEM Fellowships[16] | The GEM fellowship aims to enhance opportunities for graduate-level entry into industry roles such as product development, research, and high-level technical occupations. Applicants must be members of underrepresented groups enrolled in science or engineering programs at accredited universities. | $8,000 | Varies |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating With an Online Master’s in Chemistry Degree
| Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2032) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemists and Materials Scientists[1] | Analytical skills, communication skills, interpersonal skills, math skills, organizational skills, time-management skills, problem-solving skills, perseverance | $87,180 | 6% (faster than average) | Chemists prepare compounds, reagents, and solutions used in laboratory procedures. They analyze substances to determine compositions and check element concentrations. They write technical reports detailing findings and methods. |
| Environmental Scientists and Specialists[17] | Analytical skills, communication skills, problem-solving skills, interpersonal skills, self-discipline | $78,980 | 6% (faster than average) | Environmental scientists and specialists determine data collection methods for research projects, surveys, and investigations. They collect and compile environmental data from samples of soil, water, food, air, and other substances for scientific analysis. |
| Forensic Science Technicians[18] | Communication skills, detail-oriented, critical-thinking skills, math skills, problem-solving skills | $64,940 | 11% (much faster than average) | Forensic Science Technicians photograph crime scenes and evidence, creating sketches when necessary. They collect various evidence types, including fingerprints, bodily fluids, and weapons. Additionally, they catalog all evidence meticulously for transfer to crime labs. |
| Natural Sciences Managers[19] | Time-management skills, problem-solving skills, leadership skills, interpersonal skills, critical thinking, communication skills | $137,900 | 6% (as fast as average) | Natural Sciences Managers collaborate with top executives to devise strategies and objectives for developers and researchers. They allocate resources for programs and projects, assessing training, staffing, and equipment requirements. Additionally, they oversee the hiring, evaluating, and supervision of technicians, scientists, and other personnel. |
| Biochemists and Biophysicists[20] | Analytical skills, communication skills, critical thinking, interpersonal skills, math skills, problem-solving skills, time-management skills | $107,460 | 17% ( faster than average) | Biochemists and biophysicists investigate the physical and chemical principles underlying biological processes and living organisms, including cell growth, development, disease, and heredity. They design and execute projects encompassing both applied and fundamental research to advance scientific understanding in these areas. |
Certifications and Licensing for Online Master’s Students in Chemistry Graduates
Professional certifications can be invaluable in demonstrating expertise and knowledge in chemistry to employers. While certain professions mandate licensure and certification, the field of chemistry does not have such obligatory requirements. Nevertheless, obtaining certifications can enhance employability and potentially result in higher salaries. Individuals pursuing or completing an online master’s in chemistry can explore the following certifications:
GMP Laboratory Control Certification[21]
GMP Laboratory Control Certification benefits professionals aiming to work in research and development, technical operations, contract laboratories, quality assurance, and quality control roles. It equips students with skills in compliant laboratory operations and imparts knowledge of FDA regulations, techniques, and tools.
The Clinical Chemistry certification aids candidates in managing and overseeing calculations pertinent to clinical laboratory operations, enabling them to address challenges in clinical chemistry associated with disease processes. It also enhances their understanding of basic pathophysiology related to clinical chemistry analyses and corresponding disease processes.
The Toxicological Chemistry certification imparts knowledge of basic statistics applied to toxicology. Candidates learn analytical techniques such as mass spectrometry, chromatography, and immunoassays. Additionally, they gain proficiency in interpreting forensic and clinical findings alongside laboratory data.
Additional Resources for Online Master’s in Chemistry Graduates
Students pursuing an online master’s in chemistry can access many resources, including seminars, conferences, research papers, and symposiums, to enrich their knowledge and understanding of the subject. Various organizations provide these resources, including:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| The American Institute of Chemists | The American Institute of Chemists strives to advance activities within the field of chemistry through annual meetings, member lectures, student and ethics awards, and other initiatives. It provides members with numerous career, volunteer, and outreach opportunities to further their engagement and impact in the field. |
| American Association for Clinical Chemistry | The American Association for Clinical Chemistry seeks to position itself as a global scientific association dedicated to clinical laboratory sciences. It publishes the peer-reviewed Journal of Applied Laboratory Medicine and regularly disseminates clinical laboratory news to its members. |
| American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology | The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology hosts annual meetings, virtual events, and conferences, providing innovative and cutting-edge science exposure. It publishes three esteemed journals to inform members and the public about biochemistry and molecular biology advancements. |
| International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry | The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry engages in diverse activities to support chemical professions and the broader community. It publishes journals, books, technical reports, and databases to facilitate conferences, awards, and scientific research, fostering collaboration and advancement. |
| American Chemical Society | The American Chemical Society empowers its members to drive progress in chemistry, expand their networks, inspire future generations, advance their careers, and collaborate globally to offer scientific solutions. Through its initiatives, it fosters innovation, knowledge sharing, and community engagement, shaping the future of the chemical sciences. |
FAQs About Online Master’s in Chemistry Programs
Why should you do an online master’s in chemistry degree?
An online master’s in chemistry degree can help students develop advanced skills to transfer to various careers. The curriculum is typically the same as an on-campus program but provides students more flexibility to complete coursework. Online programs are best suited for those with other commitments like work and family.
Do you need a previous degree in chemistry to pursue a master’s?
Is it necessary to complete a thesis as part of the master’s in chemistry degree?
What can you do with an online chemistry master’s degree?
Is an online master’s degree in chemistry worth it?
Are there any practical experiences available in a chemistry master’s degree?
Citations:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Chemists and Material Scientists
Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs
Council for Higher Education Accreditation
MITOPENCOURSEWAR Massachusetts Institute of Technology-Principles of Inorganic Chemistry
James M. & Erma T. Freemont Scholarship Program
National Association for Surface Refinishing Scholarships
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Environmental Scientists and Specialists
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Forensic science technicians
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Natural Science Managers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Biochemists and Biophysicists