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College of Science

Chemistry

Master's

The Master of Science in Chemistry program offers a non-thesis education with diverse courses ranging from clean energy, polymers, materials, medicinal chemistry, bioanalytical chemistry, and chemical biology.

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Program Format
On ground
Time Commitment
Part time, Full time
Duration
2 - 3 Year(s)
Entry Term(s)
Fall, Spring
Meets F1 visa requirements
Yes

Program overview

The future of chemistry

Northeastern’s Master of Science in Chemistry program offers a flexible and rigorous curriculum designed for both working professionals and full-time students. The program is taught by accomplished and research-active faculty—delivering a strong foundation in fundamental and applied chemistry. You can customize your learning experience by selecting from concentrations or choosing an elective path. With the added benefit of optional co-op opportunities, you’ll gain valuable real-world experience that enhances your academic and professional growth.

Students may choose an optional concentration:

Analytical chemistry: Focus on the characterization of molecules, from small molecules to proteins and cells. Learn techniques to analyze molecular diversity and predict the characteristics of new molecular entities.

Chemical biology: Focus on the functions of every major biological molecule and how they work together in living systems. Learn how biological molecules are synthesized and analyzed, including in engineered systems.

Chemical toxicology and environmental chemistry: Focus on how chemicals and other agents in the environment impact people, animals, and plants. Gain tools to identify and measure environmental agents and their transformations by the environment and by living organisms.

  • Maintain employment while earning an advanced degree with part-time and full-time options.
  • Graduate from Northeastern—a top producer of chemistry MS and PhD degrees in Boston, earning an MS that ranks in the top 20 nationally.
  • Gain a solid foundation of fundamental and applied chemistry concepts from top-notch teaching and research-active faculty.
  • Obtain real-world experience through an optional co-op.
  • Join a vibrant scientific community in Boston—a world-class research center.

Admissions

Apply to the program

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and real-world professional experience in your area of interest. Apply to take your career to the next level.

  • Online application

  • Application fee

  • Transcripts from all institutions attended

    • The Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE) is a required assessment of all transcripts and documents from non-U.S. accredited post-secondary education institutions. (Review the FCE requirements by country.)

  • Personal statement

  • Resumé

  • 2 letters of recommendation

  • English language proficiency:

    • Degree earned or in progress at a U.S. institution

    • Degree earned or in progress at an institution where English is the only medium of instruction

    • Official exam scores from either the TOEFL iBT (institution code is 3682), IELTS, PTE exam, or Duolingo English Test. Scores are valid for 2 years from the test date.

Learn more about applying to the College of Science.

Program objectives

Prepare for success

Students attain expertise in chemistry and the skills necessary to become industry leaders.

Develop expertise

The program provides practicing chemical professionals with richer understanding of the field. Students graduate prepared for broader leadership opportunities in the field.

Refine your expertise

Students have the option to select a concentration in analytical, inorganic, organic, or physical chemistry, and in interdisciplinary fields such as polymers, materials, and bio-related chemistry.

Market outlook
Industry at a glance
Here's a look at current market trends and the career landscape.

Occupations

Cost of attendance

Tuition and financial aid

  • $57,840
    Tuition in USD

Estimated Total Tuition

This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2025-2026 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Select programs at select campuses offer additional scholarships of up to 25% off the listed price for domestic students studying on campus. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.

For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.

There are many ways to pay for your education, including scholarships, financial aid, and more. Connect with a financial counselor to learn about your options and make your dream a reality.

Visit tuition & financial aid
Studying in Boston

A hub of innovation

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Northeastern's first campus builds on Boston's legacy of innovation. Our 37-plus research facilities allow students and faculty to work on groundbreaking research, while our deep ties to the biotech, healthcare, education, and startup industries provide unique opportunities for learning.

#1

Best state to live in

(WalletHub, 2023)

110K+

Northeastern alumni in Greater Boston

#3

Best state for education

(U.S. News & World Report, 2024) 

Connect with us

Want more information?

We’re here to answer your questions about this program, the application process, and more. Complete the form below to receive additional program details and speak with a member of our enrollment team. 

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