PhD Chemistry at Columbia University

Programme overview

The Columbia Chemistry Department runs a research-oriented graduate programme; about twenty-five chemistry PhDs are awarded each year and students are expected to defend their dissertations within five years.

Faculty: Graduate School of Arts and Sciences | Department: Chemistry | Intake: Fall | Study mode: full-time | Location: New York, NY, United States

What you will study

The first year is largely coursework set individually by prior training and interests, with increasing dissertation research. Students attend first-term faculty colloquia and talk with at least three faculty before choosing a research sponsor. The department occupies Havemeyer Hall, Chandler Laboratories and the Havemeyer Addition.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Only applicants intending to pursue the PhD are considered; there is no MA programme. Substantial undergraduate training in chemistry is required, interpreted flexibly. Applicants submit one transcript per school attended, a statement of academic purpose, a personal statement and a resume. Three letters of evaluation (at least two from academic recommenders). Writing sample: not required. GRE General scores are required. International applicants whose undergraduate degree is from an institution in a country whose official language is not English submit TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo English Test scores. Fall 2027 entry application deadline: December 2, 2026.

Intake: Fall

Apply through the official page: https://www.gsas.columbia.edu/content/prospective-students

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