MACS Program

The MACS program trains students to be well-rounded chemists highly competitive in a non-academic workforce. This professional two-year program recruits recent college graduates, who are trying to improve their skills and become competitive in the non-academic job market.  MACS courses are taught by UCLA Chemistry & Biochemistry faculty and each student is individually mentored by one of the program’s faculty advisors. The program features two tracks, one in medicinal and one in materials chemistry, reflecting industry trends and current needs.
 

The program routinely interfaces with industry research and business leaders from the corporate sector, which includes materials and energy (3M, ExxonMobil, GE, Tesla, Applied Materials, IBM) and pharma and biotech (Pfizer, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Corteva Agrosciences) companies, as well as multiple startups and several government and non-profit organizations to enhance workforce development.
 

During their first year, MACS students are exposed to a mix of applied chemistry coursework, laboratory modules, and survey courses covering soft professional skills and project management. Students in the MACS program will have access to state-of-the art equipment acquired recently in a partnership with Agilent Technologies Inc. to facilitate educational and research activities.
 

In their second year, students will take elective courses and be part of an independent small group research project with a UCLA professor. Throughout both years, industry experts will be brought in for seminars, and to enhance networking and learning.
 

Tuition and expenses
 

The cost of tuition in the MACS program for 2024-2025 is $37,852 per year or $12,617.33 per quarter for residents and non-residents.
 

Students enrolled in this program are also required to pay student services fee, campus-based fees, and health insurance.
 

When viewing the Graduate Student Fee document, keep in mind that tuition and non-resident supplemental tuition do not apply to the MACS program. Students who have their own health insurance plan may be eligible to waive the health insurance fee. To learn more, please click the link below: