Chatham University Launches Green Chemistry MS Program

[ACSGCI]

Contributed by Bill Campbell, Vice President of Marketing, Chatham University

Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA  recently launched a new Master of Science in Green Chemistry (MSCG) program. Chatham University has worked with leaders in education, and the public and private sectors, to design a curriculum that addresses one of the most important emerging needs of the 21st century—the design of products and processes that minimize the use and generation of hazardous substances.

This degree is the first and only green chemistry master’s in the U.S. and emphasizes the development of highly effective and well-rounded science professionals. As a professional science masters degree, students will be prepared for a variety of career options in business, government, or non-profit organizations.  The combination of advanced coursework in science and/or math with an appropriate array of professional skill-development activities will produce graduates highly valued by employers and fully prepared to progress toward leadership roles.

In addition to combining elements from all five sub-disciplines of chemistry — analytical chemistry, biochemistry, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, and physical chemistry — to build upon students' previous education, the program will also leverage business courses to strengthen students' management and communication skills. Courses will also be offered through Chatham's Falk School of Sustainability, deepening students' subject matter knowledge as it relates to sustainability and green practices.

The curriculum is focused on how to create industrial chemical processes that are sustainable. Core courses include everything from green chemistry, catalysis and computational drug design to accounting essentials, corporate finance and professional writing.  Electives include biostatistics, organizational behavior, global marketing and environmental policy, which will help student’s better understand the business, legal and public policy side of the industrial processes that impact our world.

Housed on Chatham’s Pittsburgh, PA campus, the program delivers a truly unique educational experience for students with undergraduate degrees in biochemistry, biology, and chemistry. In addition, many students will be able to complete the 36-credit degree within one year depending on their undergraduate coursework.

Applications are currently being accepted for the inaugural cohort of the class beginning at Chatham in the fall of 2014.  Faculty will be offering virtual information sessions this spring to discuss the new MSGC program.

More information on the Master of Science in Green Chemistry is available at www.chatham.edu/greenchemistry.

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