Admissions Information

Applicants to our graduate programs usually have a B.S. or B.A. degree with a major in Chemistry or Biochemistry.  However, capable students with more diverse academic training are encouraged to apply.  Typically, applicants have taken one year courses in Analytical, Organic, and Physical Chemistry along with Calculus and Physics.

GRE Scores
It is required that all applicants have the results of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) sent directly to the University.  The general GRE exam is required and applicants should also take the Chemistry GRE exam.  An applicant is expected to achieve, if possible, a GRE Chemistry score well above the 50th percentile for admission and a Teaching Assistantship.  Information about the GRE can be obtained by visiting their website (www.gre.org).  Our GRE University code is 1367; the departmental code is 0301.

TOEFL Scores (International Applicants)
TOEFL scores are required for applicants whose native language is not English.  These scores should be sent directly through ETS.  Our TOEFL University code is 1367; the departmental code is 62.  Kent State University has the following TOEFL requirements: 71 on the IBT and 525 on the PBT.

Additional Requirements
We also require three letters of recommendation and a CV/resume, as well as original academic transcripts and a statement of purpose.  There is no actual form for the statement of purpose or the letters of recommendation.  Please make sure the statement of purpose includes your area of interest.  Students may do their research in the following fields:

• Analytical

• Biochemistry

• Inorganic

• Organic

• Physical

Additionally, many faculty have research interests in intra-divisional areas of separations, surface science or liquid crystals.  Further information on our faculty members and their research can be found on the "Faculty Research" page of the website.

Online applications are now available:

• Domestic applications: http://www.admissions.kent.edu/apply/Graduate/

• International applications: http://www.admissions.kent.edu/apply/International/Graduate

It should be noted that neither the University nor the Department is able to waive the application fee.  The fee must be paid before a decision can be made on your admission.  In addition, we cannot review your application until you have provided all of the requested information.

In addition to the online application, all applicants are encouraged to fill out the Supplemental Form, located here.  This form allows the Graduate Committee to get an overview of what they can expect to see in the applicant's file.

Applicants should send all materials to:

When your application is complete, the departmental Graduate Committee will review it and you will be informed of their decision as soon as possible.  The Teaching Assistantship for first year doctoral students carries a stipend of $20,000 ($18,000 for masters students) for 12 months and full payment of tuition is also provided.  Such an appointment is assured for a total of 4 1/2 years for doctoral students (2 1/2 years for masters students) if the student's academic performances are in good standing.  Students are expected to commit themselves to remain in our program until the completion of their degree.

The deadline for all application materials for Fall 2009 is April 15, 2009.

Kent State University | Department of Chemistry | Kent, OH 44242-0001
PH: 330.672.2032 | FX: 330.672.3816