The purpose of the PhD program in Chemistry is to prepare students through the execution and completion of a substantial research project to become mature, independent scientists who themselves are then capable of the design, initiation and execution of their own original projects in academic or industrial environments. The admission into the program is to be regarded as a privilege, and the subsequent execution of the research project by a PhD candidate is a major undertaking. It requires the application of considerable depth and breadth of scholarship, and there must be substantial discovery of new science. The final PhD thesis must reflect clearly and completely the fulfillment of these criteria.

In fulfilling the degree requirements, the candidate is expected to conduct the thesis research under the supervision of a designated supervisor. In addition, the candidate must attend and present seminars, and undertake course work.