MS Chemical Biology

A master’s degree in chemical biology provides advanced instruction and training in synthetic organic chemistry, biology and pharmacology. The core of this degree includes organic and medicinal chemistry, molecular biology and pharmacology and can be tailored to match a student’s particular interests within the field of chemical biology.

Saint Louis University's master’s degree in chemical biology provides excellent preparation for further studies toward a Ph.D. or transitioning to a professional career in the life sciences industry. Employment opportunities include a variety of jobs in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and materials industries.

Graduate students in SLU's chemical biology program have access to a number of research tools, including:

SLU's Master of Science in Chemical Biology offers specialization in medicinal chemistry, molecular biology and pharmacology, with cross-disciplinary activity strongly encouraged.

The requirements for the thesis-based M.S. degree include:

Required coursework includes medicinal chemistry, molecular biology, and pharmacology taught by faculty from the corresponding departments. Electives are chosen to complement a student’s interests and the research program that they join.

Many graduate courses in chemistry are scheduled in the evening, allowing students to complete the degree part-time. This flexibility allows students to tailor a program of study to suit their needs.

For students who hold a bachelor’s degree and are interested in completing the doctoral program in chemistry, there is a mechanism to transition into the Ph.D. program after the master's requirements are completed. A total of 39 credits are required, including 12 credits from dissertation research credits. Students will develop an appropriate coursework track with a mentor that will be approved by the graduate program director and/or the department chair.

Graduate Handbook