About this Program

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers a program of study leading to the degree of master of science. This program offers a sound academic background of coursework and research to prepare the student for further graduate study or employment in fields requiring an advanced degree. Areas of specialization within the program include: analytical chemistry, biochemistry, environmental chemistry, inorganic chemistry, materials chemistry, organic chemistry, and physical chemistry.

Program Highlights

  • New state-of-the art 110,000 square foot Chemistry Building opening in summer 2019

  • Extraordinary scientific equipment including a LC-MS, GC-MS, and a 400 MHz NMR.

  • Students from multiple different countries and backgrounds

AT A GLANCE
Degree Level
Graduate
Degree Earned
Master of Science
Delivery Modes
On-Campus

Careers

Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.

Chemists

$81,870 Median Salary

Conduct qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses or experiments in laboratories for quality or process control or to develop new products or knowledge.

Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary

$90,610 Median Salary

Teach courses pertaining to the chemical and physical properties and compositional changes of substances. Work may include instruction in the methods of qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching, and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

Chemical Engineers

$112,430 Median Salary

Design chemical plant equipment and devise processes for manufacturing chemicals and products, such as gasoline, synthetic rubber, plastics, detergents, cement, paper, and pulp, by applying principles and technology of chemistry, physics, and engineering.

Chemical Technicians

$51,010 Median Salary

Conduct chemical and physical laboratory tests to assist scientists in making qualitative and quantitative analyses of solids, liquids, and gaseous materials for research and development of new products or processes, quality control, maintenance of environmental standards, and other work involving experimental, theoretical, or practical application of chemistry and related sciences.

Requirements

What are the requirements to apply for Chemistry at ODU?
Students entering the Master of Science program in Chemistry should meet the minimum university admission requirements Graduate Admission.

  An application, transcripts, two letters of recommendation from former college instructors, a resume, a writing sample and an essay about career goals. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is optional for all domestic applicants and strongly recommend for international applicants. International students are also required to submit an Internet Based TOEFL Score (iBT) which includes a Speaking Portion. Admission to regular status requires a grade point average of 3.00 in the major and 2.80 overall (on a 4.00 scale). General university admission requirements also apply. In addition, a Bachelor of Science degree (or equivalent) with a major in chemistry (or another science) is required, although applications from majors in all science disciplines are encouraged. Undergraduate courses in organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, analytical chemistry (quantitative and instrumental analysis), physical chemistry, and calculus are required for regular admission. Deficiencies in any of these areas will be identified and must be rectified by taking undergraduate coursework.    

Cost

Estimated rates for the 2023-24 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.

Virginia Resident
Cost Per-Credit $599
Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States
Cost Per-Credit $623
Non-Resident
Cost Per-Credit $1,439

Ways to Save

Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial aid

Teaching Assistantships

Teaching assistantships may be available, but they are not guaranteed for M.S. Students

Contact

Associate Professor

1000I CHEMISTRY BUILDING 4501 ELKHORN AVE
NORFOLK, 23529