M.S. in Chemical Biology

Program Overview

The M.S. in Chemical Biology is a comprehensive 30-credit degree program. It typically requires students to complete 12 credits of core courses and 18 credits of technical electives, which can include up to 6 credits of unrestricted electives and courses in biomedical engineering. The program strongly encourages engagement in original research, offering options for a "Special Research Problem" (3 credits) or a Master's Thesis (6 credits) which count towards the total credits. Students are also required to complete two semesters of Chemistry and Chemical Biology Seminar (0 credits) to stay abreast of cutting-edge developments. The program offers flexibility through electives, allowing students to tailor their studies towards specific areas such as Drug Discovery, Analytical Chemistry, or Computational Chemistry and Biology, often through the completion of a graduate certificate as part of their degree.

STEM-designated: Yes, the Stevens Institute of Technology M.S. in Chemical Biology program is unequivocally STEM-designated. This is a significant advantage, particularly for international students. The STEM designation makes them eligible for a 24-month extension of their Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the United States, allowing for a total of up to three years of valuable post-graduation work experience. This designation clearly reflects the program's rigorous scientific, quantitative, and technological focus, which is highly valued by employers in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and research sectors.

Curriculum: The 30-credit curriculum provides an in-depth understanding of chemical biology, bridging chemical concepts with biological systems. Core courses typically cover fundamental areas such as "Chemical and Materials Thermodynamics," "Spectra and Structure," "Kinetics of Materials," and "Soft Matter Physics." While these are often shared with Materials Science, the chemical biology specific core and electives delve into topics like biochemistry (cellular metabolism and regulation, biomolecular structure and function), molecular genetics, cell and molecular biology, bioanalytical techniques, medicinal chemistry, and computational biology. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and hands-on laboratory experience, ensuring students are proficient in modern experimental and computational methodologies.

Research Focus: The M.S. in Chemical Biology program at Stevens has a strong research focus, encouraging students to engage in groundbreaking and impactful research under the mentorship of leading faculty experts. Research within the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology spans diverse areas, including drug discovery and development, cancer biology, genetics, molecular and cellular biology, and computational chemistry. Specific research explores the modulation of disease-relevant biological systems at the molecular level, studying mechanisms of cancer initiation, progression, and therapy resistance using patient-derived organoids and tissue models, and developing high-accuracy predictions of molecular structures and properties. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including mass spectrometry and various specialized laboratories, enabling them to contribute to advancements in areas like novel anticancer and antibacterial compounds, bioactive peptides, and molecular probes.

Industry Engagement: Stevens Institute of Technology places a very high priority on industry engagement for its Chemical Biology program. Its strategic location in the New York-New Jersey metropolitan area, often referred to as "the medicine chest of the world," provides unparalleled access to a vast network of leading pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and life science companies. Many faculty members have extensive real-world drug discovery and development experience as leading scientists and managers in these industries, bringing invaluable practical insights and connections into the classroom. The curriculum is continuously updated to integrate rapidly evolving technologies, including AI electives. Stevens' strong alumni network and robust Career Center facilitate extensive networking opportunities, internships, and co-op experiences, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for roles in drug discovery, medicinal chemistry, materials science, and clinical research within academic, government, and industrial settings.

Global Perspective: Stevens Institute of Technology fosters a global perspective within its M.S. in Chemical Biology program through its diverse international student body and the inherently global nature of scientific research and medical challenges. The university attracts students from around the world, creating a multicultural learning environment that enriches classroom discussions with varied insights into international research methodologies, regulatory landscapes, and global health issues. The development of new medications, diagnostic tools, and sustainable technologies in chemical biology has a universal impact, preparing graduates to contribute to international scientific collaborations and address health and environmental challenges on a global scale. This global outlook, combined with Stevens' rigorous technical education and emphasis on multidisciplinary problem-solving, ensures graduates are well-equipped for careers in an interconnected professional landscape.