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The University of Tennessee

Department of Chemistry

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Graduate Program » Frequently Asked Questions


Frequently Asked Questions

The following are answers to commonly asked questions. If this FAQ page does not answer your specific question please contact Graduate Program Coordinator.

 

I am interested in UTK Chemistry - How do I apply for the Graduate Program?

Applying to the Graduate Program in Chemistry is also an application for a Graduate Teaching Assistantship. This is done on our simple online application system that allows you to apply for the program/assistantship, upload supporting documents (Resume, Unofficial copies of transcripts and test scores) and submit names of three or more references for your application.

The link that follows this paragraph will take you to the registration/login page where you can begin your online application to our program

APPLY NOW!


What is the application deadline for your program?

This is a good question, for International Students the application deadline is February 1st, for domestic students or students getting thier degree within the U.S. there is no deadline for admissions. With that being said we encourage each student, International or Domestic to begin applying as early as possible.

What test scores am I required to submit?

We require the General GRE test for all applicants. Those who wish to take the Chemistry subject test may do so but it is not a requirement, although it won't hurt your application.

International students are also required to submit a score for the TOEFL iBT.

Each of these tests can be taken through Educational Testing Services.

Are there specific GPAs, GRE scores, and TOEFL scores you look for?

We do not look for specific grade point averages or test scores as they are just a pieces of the whole picture of an applicant. The University holds a minimum GPA of 2.7 for admissions to Graduate School along with a minimun TOEFL of 213 for the Computer based test or 80 with a minimun of 20 on the Speaking protion for the Internet Based Test (iBT).

What are the benefits I receive at a graduate teaching assistant?

As a graduate teaching assistant your benefits are many. You will receive a tuition waiver which covers the cost of tuition for the credits you take each semester. In addition you will receive an annual stipend of ~$20,000. You will also receive health benefits provided to you through United Healthcare.

I have been admitted into the Chemistry Graduate Program now what?

Now that you have been admitted into the Graduate Program in Chemistry and as a teaching assistant in the Chemistry Department you will need to fill out and complete an application for the Office of Graduate and International Admissions within the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. This can be done by following this link: http://admissions.utk.edu/graduate/ or choose the "University Admissions" selection on the menu to the left.

When and how are advisers chosen?

Advisers can be chosen prior to your arrival, however as a part of the selection process we ask that you speak with several faculty members to find the advisor that offers you the best opportunity to succeed in graduate school. The process of adviser selection begins in September of the first semester of graduate school and has usually concluded by late November of that first semester.

What is my expected courseload?

Course loads vary depending on academic concentration within the graduate program and if there are deficiencies which call for courses to be taken. Typical courseload for graduate students in 7-9 hours per semester for 3-4 semesters. There are no graduate level courses offered during the summers but you are required to be registered for Chemistry 500 or 600 (use of facilities) to maintain your graduate student status.

What is my expected teaching load?

Teaching loads also vary by course and schedule. Typically our graduate students are commited to 10-20 hours per week in teaching duties. This includes class time, lab time(s), grading, office hours, and tutorial center hours.