Graduate Programs
Shaping Tomorrow's Chemists and Biochemists at NIU
The M.S. and Ph.D. graduate programs prepare you for diverse and impactful careers in chemistry and biochemistry. Our graduate students work closely with faculty mentors on a broad spectrum of research, from traditional areas of chemistry to highly interdisciplinary and collaborative projects that push the boundaries of modern science. Here, our low student-to-faculty ratio fosters an ideal learning environment, enabling you to develop a distinctive blend of technical expertise, critical thinking, and effective communication skills.
Hands-On Research and Real-world Impact
As a student in our program, you will be immersed in research that addresses real-world challenges. Whether you are interested in developing new pharmaceuticals, exploring sustainable energy solutions, or advancing biotechnology, our programs offer a wealth of research opportunities. Our labs are equipped with cutting-edge equipment, and our faculty are experts who will guide you as you build a robust foundation in both the scientific and practical skills required for today's scientific workforce.
An Ideal Location with Unmatched Connections
Located just an hour from Chicago, NIU gives you access to one of the nation's largest hubs for the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. The Chicagoland area is home to companies like AbbVie, Baxter, and FONA/McCormick, as well as renowned research centers such as Argonne National Laboratory. Our alumni have found fulfilling careers with these and other prestigious employers, leveraging both the practical experience they gain at NIU and the valuable professional connections we offer.
Graduate Ready to Lead in a Changing World
Our goal is for you to leave with a degree and a skill set that positions you to meet—and shape—the future of science. You will graduate well-prepared to face the evolving challenges of the scientific world, confident in your ability to contribute, innovate, and lead in your field.
Graduate Program Highlights
- Build knowledge and credentials for career success! Consider our master's program specializations in Biotechnology and Industrial Chemistry.
- Congratulations to Xingyi Lyu for receiving the 2025 Outstanding Graduate Student Award.
Pursuing a Ph.D. in Chemistry or Biochemistry at NIU opens doors to advanced careers in academia, industry, and government research. It equips you with advanced analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills that are needed for senior roles in pharmaceutical R&D, biotechnology, environmental science, and medical research, often leading to higher earning potential and job stability.
Our Ph.D. program generally takes five years to complete and provides students with extensive research and professional development opportunities. Students collaborate closely with faculty, often resulting in co-authorship on multiple peer-reviewed publications. Students gain experience presenting their work at national conferences, building professional networks and honing communication skills essential for their careers.
The Details
The Ph.D. program offers specializations in analytical, biological (i.e., biochemistry), inorganic, organic, physical chemistry, or nanotechnology, as well as interdisciplinary research spanning two or more disciplines. The program includes formal coursework, presentations, independent study (research), and completion of a dissertation while maintaining good academic standing.
Applicants should have a baccalaureate or master's degree in chemistry or biochemistry. Related disciplines, including life, physical, engineering or mathematical science, may also be considered.
An M.S. in Chemistry or Biochemistry offers technical skills and knowledge for higher-level roles in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, biotechnology, and environmental science. It provides a competitive edge in the job market for research and regulatory affairs.
Our M.S. program generally takes two to two and a half years to complete and provides students with research and professional development opportunities. Students collaborate closely with faculty, often resulting in co-authorship on peer-reviewed publications. Students gain experience presenting their work at national conferences, building professional networks and honing communication skills essential for their careers.
The Details
The M.S. program offers research in analytical, biological (i.e., biochemistry), inorganic, organic, physical chemistry, or nanotechnology, as well as interdisciplinary research spanning two or more disciplines. The program includes formal coursework, presentations, independent study (research), and completion of a thesis while maintaining good academic standing.
Applicants should have a baccalaureate degree in chemistry or biochemistry. Related disciplines, including life, physical, engineering, or mathematical science, may also be considered.
Looking to pursue a teaching career in the sciences at the high school level but do not have an educator license? The M.S. in Chemistry with educator licensure will provide a direct route to earn your Illinois Professional Educator License to teach chemistry and physical sciences at the high school level. The M.S. program will prepare you for a successful career in science education that can also provide significant salary benefits.
The M.S. program generally takes two to three years to complete and culminates in a full-time student teaching experience at a local school during your last semester. Licensure program courses are taught by faculty with high school teaching experience and focus on current research-based best practices in the field of science education. For more information, contact the Educator Licensure Advisor, Paul Fix (pfix@niu.edu).
The Details
Applicants should have a B.S. in chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field. No teaching experience is required.
The Industrial Chemistry M.S. program is a unique and research-based allowing B.S.-level scientists to complete a master's degree while pursuing a research project at their workplace. Students pursue a project beneficial to the employer that has strong academic/publishable outcomes while receiving guidance from an NIU faculty co-advisor and their industrial supervisor(s).
Details
Core coursework includes five online or in-person 3-credit hour courses through NIU Chemistry or related disciplines (e.g., Biology, Public Health, Management, etc.), culminating in writing and defending a master's thesis.
The Biotechnology M.S. program is a one-year, in-person degree path. Rooted in principles of biology and chemistry, the M.S. Biotechnology emphasis provides comprehensive exposure to the application of cutting-edge biotechnological tools and techniques. Graduates of the M.S. Biotechnology option will emerge prepared for diverse career paths in biopharmaceuticals, agricultural biotechnology, healthcare, environmental science, and beyond.
Details
Through a combination of rigorous coursework, laboratory experiences, and practical projects, participants will develop proficiency in current biotechnology methods. The interdisciplinary curriculum includes courses across the Departments of Biological Sciences, Chemistry and Biochemistry, Public Health in the College of Health and Human Sciences, and Management in the College of Business.
All laboratory courses are in person. Lecture courses may have an online option. Due to the intensive nature of the curriculum, students are not eligible for teaching or research assistantships.
Starting undergraduate research by the third year, students work consistently within the same research group through the completion of the M.S. degree. Fourth-year students may take up to six credit hours that count toward both bachelor's and master's degrees.
Requirements
With an overall NIU GPA of 3.0 or greater and enrollment in approved programs, students in the accelerated track must complete seven terms, including research and coursework, culminating in a publication or thesis defense to earn the M.S. degree.
