Overview

The Medicinal Chemistry programme at the University of Kansas offers postgraduate students a rigorous academic environment focused on the intersection of chemistry and biology. This Master of Science degree is designed to equip developing scientists with the technical expertise required for high-level research and professional practice. Students benefit from a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory applications.

Why Medicinal Chemistry at the University of Kansas?

The University of Kansas maintains an international reputation for excellence, supported by a diverse faculty with broad scientific interests. Students have the unique opportunity to work in the Shankel Structural Biological Center, engaging in research areas such as enzyme inhibition, drug metabolism, and computer-aided drug design. The department fosters a strong sense of camaraderie and maintains close ties with the departments of Pharmacology and Toxicology, as well as Pharmaceutical Chemistry.

Collaboration is a cornerstone of the experience, with research partnerships and shared graduate courses that eliminate traditional academic barriers. This creates a thriving scientific community where students can explore natural products chemistry, biochemistry, and peptide chemistry. The institution also hosts prestigious events like the Mertes and Smissman Memorial Lecture Series, connecting students with leading figures in the field.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 20712 per year
National fee: USD 20712 per year
Local fee: USD 8806 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive foundation in the chemical sciences while allowing for specialised exploration. Modules may include:

Medicinal Chemistry
Synthetic Organic Chemistry
Chemical Biology
Scientific Writing
Biochemistry
Peptide Chemistry
Natural Products Chemistry
Pharmacology

Careers with Medicinal Chemistry

Graduates from the University of Kansas have established successful careers across the pharmaceutical and agrichemical industries. The programme prepares individuals for roles in research, development, and academia, with alumni securing positions at major global organisations. Former students have gone on to work for prominent companies and institutions, including:

Eli Lilly
Abbott
Warner-Lambert
Pfizer

In addition to industry roles, many graduates pursue careers as professors and department chairs at leading research universities. Others have taken on influential editorial roles for major scientific publications, such as the Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, demonstrating the programme's capacity to produce leaders in the global scientific community.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Organic Chemistry with Lab

Physical Chemistry

Biochemistry

Chemistry

Biology
Biochemistry

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-18 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-02-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Lawrence, United States

Disciplines

Chemistry Pharmacy View 186 other Masters in Pharmacy in United States

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Academic requirements

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Applications must be supported by 1 copy of official transcripts of all previous college and university work, both undergraduate and graduate. In addition, a resume, a statement of purpose, and 3 letters of recommendation from current or former teachers, advisors, or employers must be submitted.

Students from non-English-speaking countries also must furnish proof of proficiency in English. Graduate Record Examination (GRE) general test scores are required, and applicants are strongly encouraged to take the subject test in chemistry as well.
Be prepared to upload a one-to-two-page Statement of Purpose detailing why you want to study medicinal chemistry, your long-term objectives, and your ranked preference of the three research areas offered by the department (i.e., A. Synthetic Medicinal Chemistry, B. Natural Products/Chemical Biology, C. Medicinal Biochemistry).

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

20712 USD / year

≈ 20712 USD / year
Out-of-State

20712 USD / year

≈ 20712 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

8806 USD / year

≈ 8806 USD / year

Living costs

Lawrence

United States

900 - 1400 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Medicinal Chemistry.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Lawrence

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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