Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry

Distance Masters Program


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the minimum requirements for applicants (i.e., GPA, GRE scores etc.)?
A: We don’t have set minimum requirements. We view each applicant carefully and consider the combination of GPA (with emphasis on chemistry courses), GRE scores, letters of recommendation and the personal statement. We have in the past taken students with deficiencies in one of the above areas that have turned out to be outstanding scientists. We view the collection of materials to arrive at our decision. One requirement, set by the Graduate School, deals with the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores. If below a set level the student must take courses in English to overcome their deficiencies.

Q: What is the average time it takes you student’s to earn their masters degree?
A: Typically it would take a minimum of three years, as most students will only be taking one course per semester.

Q: Can any of my courses be waived if I took similar courses at a different university?
A: The answer is maybe. If the university is reputable and the syllabus clearly identifies the content similarity it may be possible but requires faculty approval.

Q: What do I have to pay for if accepted into the distance masters program?
A: For tuition and fees click here.

Q: What methods of payment for the application fee are accepted?
A: You may use all major credit cards, a personal check or a money order. It is not advisable to send cash and we are not liable for lost money. The fee should be sent to the graduate school with your application and not to the department.

Q: Do I need to take the TOEFL?
A: Yes, if you come from a country where English is not the native language. The graduate school is very rigid with this requirement. However, if you originate from a non-English speaking country but have recently received a degree from an English speaking university it is likely that you will not have to take the exam; however, not all universities are recognized by the graduate school for this purpose. Please consult the graduate school catalog to see if your university is listed.

Q: Do letters of recommendation need to be formatted in a special way?
A: No. Unlike some universities, we do not require special formatting. It is important that the reference be signed and printed on institutional letterhead.

Q: How is my industrial supervisor selected?
A: You will nominate a person at your company to serve as your industrial supervisor. This person should normally be a senior member of the research staff and should submit a current CV to the Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, c/o Nancy Helm (nhelm@ku.edu), for approval as your supervisor.

Q: How will my exams be monitored at my industrial site?
A: Your industrial supervisor will arrange for monitoring of the exams. Please provide contact information for your supervisor if you have not already done so.

Q: What sort of resources are available to enrolled students who are taking the classes, but are not located in Lawrence?
A: The KU Libraries web page has information dedicated to helping students find information. This site can be accessed here: http://www.lib.ku.edu/public/research/MedicineHealth/PharmChemMastersProgram.shtml

Q: How do I select my industrial research project?
A: You and your industrial supervisor should outline a potential research project which should be publishable and submit it to Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry. The Department will then propose a faculty advisor from the Department with research interests in the chosen area. You, your industrial advisor, and the faculty member will then map out a research project that will be submitted for approval.

Q: Can the courses that I take through the distance masters program count towards a future Ph.D. degree at the University of Kansas?
A: Yes.