PhD Chemistry at University of South Carolina

Programme overview

As a doctoral student in chemistry or biochemistry, you will work with award-winning faculty on cutting-edge research through our dedicated facilities. Our chemistry faculty are solving real-world problems and will help you prepare for a successful career in leading industries and national labs or to start your own research program at a college or university. We offer attractive research opportunities and specialties in a centralized location in South Carolina.

Faculty: McCausland College of Arts and Sciences | Department: Chemistry and Biochemistry | Duration: 6 credit hours | Study mode: full-time | Location: Columbia, SC, United States

What you will study

Excel in one or more areas: analytical chemistry, biochemistry, inorganic or organic chemistry and physical chemistry. We also offer environmental and materials chemistry. With our research emphasis, you’ll have the chance to present at conferences and learn from USC faculty as well as other schools.

Career pathways

Potential careers include Professor, Industrial Chemist, National Laboratory Scientist.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Admissions (University of South Carolina Academic Bulletin): An applicant must have a baccalaureate degree or its equivalent from an accredited college or university. The applicant’s academic record must indicate adequate preparation for graduate study in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. Generally, to be considered for admission, a student should have a minimum grade point average of 3.00 in the sciences on a 4.00 scale. Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores are not required for admission but are welcomed as supporting information and for additional award opportunities. These guidelines are flexible, and slight deficiencies in one area can be compensated by strengths in another. In addition, applicants whose native language is not English must obtain a minimum score of 88 on the TOEFL exam, 7 on the IELTS exam, 59 on the PTE Academic exam, or 120 on the Duolingo exam.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Graduate applications are accepted for Fall, Spring and Summer terms; Fall applications open the prior September, Spring applications open in January and Summer applications open in May.

The graduate application fee is $50 per primary application, reinstated effective August 1, 2026. Deadlines are programme-specific and listed per programme on the Degree Programs and Application Requirements pages.

Apply through the official page: https://www.sc.edu/admissions-at-sc/applications/index.php

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