Professional Science Concentration

The M.S. Chemistry Professional Science Concentration (PSC) is a two-year program offered by the Department of Chemistry and Physics at Western Carolina University.

PSC students will work with dedicated faculty to use cutting-edge chemistry technology and innovative business theories and practices to solve real-world problems. The PSC will increase students' professional network and job prospects in fast-growing chemical industries, such as natural products, pharmaceuticals, and process analytical applications. 

There are three professional tracks: executive, technology and financial, all which share a common science core. This program is ideal for people interested in industrial applications or who are currently employed in the private sector looking for career advancement.

Program Highlights

• Students will earn an M.S. Chemistry degree
• All learning will focus on chemistry and business/professional skills that are needed by the chemical industry
• The M.S. Chemistry Professional Science Concentration is 30 hours and includes the following:

1. Five chemistry courses that focus on biotechnology, biochemistry, instrument techniques, and structural determination;
2. Three business "tracks" to choose from: executive, technology, and financial; and
3. An internship at a regional company or a research project where students will apply their learning in a real-world context.

Concentration Requirements

Required Core Courses (21)

• CHEM 593 Topics in Chemistry Credits: 3
• CHEM 535 Instrumental Analysis II Credits: 3
• CHEM 541 Advanced Organic Chemistry Credits: 3
• CHEM 563 Molecular Biotechnology Credits: 3
• CHEM 550 Principles of Biochemistry Credits: 3
• CHEM 689 Cooperative Education in Chemistry Credits: 6
• A two-day seminar that covers regulatory content is required but does not count toward the curriculum credit hours.
• The internship requires students to work 120 hours to satisfy the 6 credit hour internship. The scheduling and duration must be negotiated and approved by the student, the student's faculty advisor, and the internship supervisor.

Professional Tracks (9)