Overview
Within this Chemistry PhD program from Portland State University students in all areas of chemistry pursue graduate study at PSU, where they explore cutting-edge research in biophysics, catalysis, chemical biology, chemistry education, molecular imaging, nanotechnology, renewable energy, sensors, synthesis, therapeutics, and environmental, green, materials, and systems chemistry.
This work is enhanced through strong ties to local and statewide research initiatives and collaborations with other Portland State faculty as well as researchers across the nation and around the globe.
Portland State University's position in the heart of Oregon's economic and cultural center provides a dynamic and exciting environment in which to pursue science. You will find our students, staff, and faculty to be friendly and accessible and that we value the experience of studying at an outstanding university that has all the advantages of being located in a major city, but is surrounded by the beauty and recreational opportunities of the Pacific Northwest.
Career opportunities:
Graduate study in chemistry at Portland State University provides students with good preparation for rewarding careers in academic, industrial, or government research. Graduates of the Department of Chemistry's programs have taken advantage of the strong interdisciplinary nature of the program and report that their doctoral training prepared them well for rewarding careers.
These students have benefited from interdisciplinary programs on campus, such as the Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Academy, the Center for Electron Microscopy and Nanofabrication, the Center for Life in Extreme Environments, and the Oregon Health & Sciences University (OHSU).
Programme Structure
Courses include:
- Advanced Organic Chemistry
- Advanced Inorganic Chemistry
- Spectrometric Analysis
- Numerical Data Analysis and Modeling in Chemistry
- Advanced Analytical Theory
- Enzyme Structure and Function
- Nucleic Acid Structure and Function
Admission requirements
Academic requirements
- GPA: 2.7
English requirements
- Duolingo English Test: 120
- TOEFL iBT: 80
- PTE Academic: 60
- IELTS: 6.5
General requirements
- To be considered for regular admission, applicants must have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or the equivalent (on the U.S. 4.0 scale) from the degree granting institution(s). Applicants who have earned 9 or more letter-graded graduate credits must have a minimum graduate GPA of 3.0 or the equivalent; this graduate GPA supersedes the undergraduate GPA.
- Copies of official degree certificate/diploma
- Certified translation of transcripts
- Financial documentation demonstrating adequate financial support for at least the first year of study
Duration
- Full-time: 60 months
Start dates & application deadlines
- Starting September 2027
- Apply before Dec 2026
Key information
- Credits: 81 SCH
- Delivered: On Campus
- Campus Location: Portland, United States
- Discipline: Chemistry
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees are shown in AUD and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.
- International / Out-of-State: 17,643 AUD / year (≈ 12,506 USD / year)
- Domestic (In-State): 11,952 AUD / year (≈ 8,472 USD / year)
Living costs
Portland, United States: 1,793-3,191 AUD / month.
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.