M.S. in Chemistry

Entry requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

1. Academic Requirements:

• Applicants must have completed a recognized undergraduate degree from an accredited institution.
• A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or its equivalent) is required. This translates to approximately 60% or above in the grading system.

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0.
• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 80.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 53.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105.

3. Standardized Tests:

• GRE: A minimum GRE score of 310 is required.

California State University, Fresno, is committed to supporting the academic aspirations of international students by offering various scholarships and financial aid opportunities. These scholarships help ease the financial burden of pursuing higher education in the United States. 

1. International Student Scholarship: Fresno State offers merit-based scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement and may cover a significant portion of tuition costs.

2. Dean's Graduate Medal: This scholarship is awarded to the top graduate student from each academic college at Fresno State. It recognizes outstanding academic achievement and contributions to the college.

3. President's Graduate Medal: The President's Graduate Medal is the highest honor for a graduate student at Fresno State. It is awarded to a graduate student who has demonstrated exceptional scholarship, leadership, and service.

4. Graduate Equity Fellowship: The Graduate Equity Fellowship is designed to support underrepresented and economically disadvantaged graduate students. It provides financial assistance and mentoring to help students succeed in their academic pursuits.

5. Athletic Scholarships: Fresno State offers athletic scholarships to talented student-athletes. These scholarships are typically awarded to individuals who excel in specific sports and contribute to the university's athletic programs.

6. External Scholarships: International students can also explore external scholarship opportunities, including those offered by government agencies, private organizations, and foundations in their home countries.

7. Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at Fresno State may offer scholarships to graduate students in specific fields of study. These scholarships often have specific eligibility criteria and application processes.

8. Fulbright Scholarships: Fresno State participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships for international students to study, teach, or conduct research in the United States. Applicants can apply for Fulbright scholarships through the Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy in their home country.

9. Cultural and Exchange Program Scholarships: Fresno State may offer scholarships to international students participating in cultural exchange programs or partnership agreements with specific universities and organizations.

10. Research and Teaching Assistantships: Graduate students may have opportunities to work as research or teaching assistants, which often come with a stipend and/or tuition remission.

Tips for Scholarship Application:

• Applicants should pay close attention to scholarship application deadlines and ensure that all required documents are submitted on time.
• Strong academic performance, letters of recommendation, a well-written personal statement, and a demonstrated commitment to community involvement and leadership can enhance scholarship application chances.

Graduates of the STEM-designated M.S. in Chemistry program at California State University, Fresno, are well-prepared for diverse and rewarding career opportunities in the field of chemistry and related scientific disciplines.  

1. Research Scientist: Graduates can pursue careers as research scientists in academia, industry, or government labs, conducting innovative research in areas such as materials science, pharmaceuticals, and environmental chemistry.

2. Chemical Analyst: Chemical analysts work in laboratories, conducting chemical analyses and quality control testing in industries such as pharmaceuticals, food production, and environmental monitoring.

3. Pharmaceutical Scientist: Graduates can work in the pharmaceutical industry, contributing to drug development, formulation, and quality assurance.

4. Chemical Engineer: Some graduates may choose to enter the field of chemical engineering, focusing on the design and optimization of chemical processes and manufacturing.

5. Environmental Scientist: Environmental scientists study the impact of chemicals and pollutants on the environment, working for government agencies, consulting firms, or research organizations.

6. Quality Control Manager: Quality control managers oversee quality assurance and quality control processes in manufacturing and production industries.

7. Teaching and Academia: Graduates interested in education can pursue teaching positions at high schools or community colleges. Others may choose to pursue doctoral programs and careers in academia.

8. Forensic Scientist: Forensic scientists analyze physical evidence in criminal investigations, helping to solve crimes and provide expert testimony in court.

9. Analytical Chemist: Analytical chemists specialize in developing and using techniques to analyze various substances, such as chemicals, drugs, and biological samples.

10. Materials Scientist: Materials scientists explore the properties and applications of different materials, from polymers to nanomaterials, to develop new materials with specific properties.

11. Government Researcher: Graduates can work for government agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the National Institutes of Health (NIH), conducting research and contributing to public policy.

12. Consultant: Chemical consultants provide expertise to businesses and organizations on chemical processes, safety, and regulatory compliance.

13. Technical Writer: Some graduates may choose to become technical writers, communicating complex scientific concepts and research findings to broader audiences.