About > Choosing a Chemistry Graduate School

As a relatively recent doctoral graduate in analytical chemistry, I've seen a lot of the inner workings of two different graduate schools. And having been at both a large school (Indiana University) and a medium-sized school (Clemson University) I have gained insight into how to choose a school you'll be happy with.

First, look in the magazine "C&E News." Each year they publish in-depth details about the amount of funding, the number of graduates by degree type, etc... for every college and university in the US that offers degrees in chemistry. The Directory of Graduate Research published by ACS, is also a good resource. (Available only by subscription only .) You'll want a school that has a decent sized graduate program. Fifty graduate students is the smallest program I would suggest.

Second, decide what area of the country you'd like to be in. Grad school is a great time to learn about different areas of the country since your time committment is fixed. In other words, you know you'll be moving on in two to six years depending on the degree you are seeking. Remember -- grad students don't get their summers off, so you will be a year-round resident!

Next, talk to the faculty at your undergraduate school and see what schools they suggest. You should have in mind at least a general area of chemistry in which you are interested. Schools are traditionally known for different areas of expertise. Some grad schools excel in organic synthesis, while others are respected for their p-chem or analytical research. Most undergrad faculty are familiar with these reputations. But take their advice with a grain of salt since people usually suggest their alma mater.

Apply to the schools you feel comfortable with, both geographically and academically. Don't go overboard on your applications, but applying to five schools isn't unreasonable. Get your applications in early since the supporting paperwork (transcripts and recommendations) usually takes a while to get processed.

Visit the schools -- and plan to spend at least a day or two apiece. I can't emphasize this enough. Look carefully at the school that might be your home for the next five years. Talk to the faculty. When sitting with a faculty member, ask youself, "Could I picture myself working with this person?" More important than talking to the faculty, talk to the graduate stduents. You can find out a lot about a school while talking over lunch with a grad student. Ask about teaching loads, research expectations, advisor reputations, facilities, outside activities, campus healthcare, parking, and anything else you can think of. Also don't forget to ask about housing and cost of living. Don't be bashful since most graduate students are honest about their opinions and more than happy to provide information. But they may not offer the information unless you ask.

During your visit write down notes about the school. Remember, if you visit many schools, the details will start to blend together. I suggest writing down such things as overall impression, and your impressions of:

• faculty
• level of satisfaction of grad students
• the surrounding region
• building upkeep and appearance

When it comes time to make your decision, take into account everything you observed on each campus. And don't be led into the trap of going with the school that offers you the most money. Realize that an increased cost of living may outweigh increased stipend for that school. You also have to subtract any tuition and mandatory fees from your stipend to get the bottom line. While most schools waive your tuition while you are teaching or on a research assistantship, they may charge up to $750/semester in fees!

But my biggest word of caution is: DON'T choose a grad school because of ONE professor who you'd like as your research advisor. Make sure there are multiple professors, possibly in multiple disciplines, for whom you'd like to do research. I know of people who came to grad school to work for a specific professor, only to discover after they arrived that the professor wasn't taking any new students into their research group that year. Don't let that happen to you!

Good luck in your quest for academic happiness at the grad school of your choice!