Fields include bio-inorganic chemistry, bio-organic chemistry, biophysical chemistry, chemical biology, chemical physics, inorganic chemistry, materials chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, physical-inorganic chemistry, physical-organic chemistry, synthetic-organic chemistry, and theoretical chemistry.

Three term courses are required in each of the first two terms of residence. Courses are chosen according to the student's background and research area. To be admitted to candidacy a student must (1) receive at least two term grades of Honors, exclusive of those for research; (2) pass one oral examination (preparative chemistry students) or two oral examinations (physical chemistry students) by the end of the second year of study; and (3) submit a thesis prospectus no later than the end of the third year of study. Remaining degree requirements include completing a formal proposal (inorganic, organic, and chemical biology students), a written thesis describing the research, and an oral defense of the thesis. The ability to communicate scientific knowledge to others outside the specialized area is crucial to any career in chemistry. Therefore, all students are required to teach a minimum of two terms at a TF level 20. Students may be required by their advisers to teach in additional terms, but would not be required to teach more than five terms over their first five years. All students are required to take CHEM 590, Ethical Conduct and Scientific Research, in the fall term of their first year of study. A student must pass at least five graduate-level term courses in the Chemistry department exclusive of seminars and research. In addition, an overall average (exclusive of seminars and research) of High Pass must be maintained in all courses. One full year of residence is required.