The department offers programs leading to the Master of Arts, Master of Science, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees with a major in chemistry. The vast majority of students are admitted into the Ph.D. track. Concentrations are available in analytical, biological, inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry; and can include an emphasis in chemical physics, materials science, optical sciences, polymer sciences, surface sciences, astrochemistry, bioorganic science and several other interdisciplinary fields. Prospective students should contact the department for information on applying, the variety of research programs, the faculty involved, the facilities available, and guidelines for the graduate program in chemistry. The application deadlines are December 1st for international applicants and February 1st for domestic applicants. Official transcripts of all previous college and university work, a personal statement of plans, goals and education, and the results of the Graduate Record Examination are required. Confidential letters of recommendation are also required from three persons familiar with the applicant's work, preferably in chemistry; one letter must be from a major advisor/professor. Teaching assistantships and fellowship support are available for incoming graduate students. After the first semester students in good standing are generally supported by either teaching or research assistantships. New students are assisted and advised by the department's Graduate Program Committee until they are prepared to select a research program and a research advisor. The committee administers examinations for all new students during the week before registration. These examinations cover various branches of chemistry and the results are used to help students plan an appropriate graduate program. Master of Arts: Students who plan to teach chemistry in secondary schools will find this program adapted to their needs. The M.A. degree is a non-thesis degree that is awarded for advanced study in chemistry beyond the bachelor's degree. Master of Science: A thesis based upon original research is required. All students must pass a final oral defense. Doctor of Philosophy: The Doctor of Philosophy with a major in chemistry is primarily a research degree. The number and selection of courses is tailored to the individual student's needs and interests according to the guidelines available from the Department of Chemistry. The minor work may be satisfied within the Department of Chemistry. A dissertation based upon original laboratory research is required. All students must pass a comprehensive examination and a final oral defense examination.