What Students Say
Likes
- The campus is big in area and vibrant.
- R1 research. Chemistry department is one of the best in USA for Polymer research.
- Very strong collaborations with Oak Ridge National Lab.
Course Curriculum
10
- The syllabus is very up-to-date and difficult.
- There are a lot of opportunities to work with industries or national labs.
- Maximum three classes.
- PhD candidates are relatively fewer in number. So, an average of 20 students is in each class.
Admission Experience
- This university conducts R1-level research. The departments and faculty are well-reputed. Getting accepted here is very challenging due to intense competition. I was accepted because I have a strong CV and wrote a good SOP (Statement of Purpose). The admissions committee looks for strong academic standing and research experience. If an applicant has solved challenging problems or successfully completed a project despite setbacks, it adds value to their profile. Joining and contributing to a difficult research project also strengthens an application. The research goals of the applicant should align with the available projects or the overall goals of the department. Additionally, applicants are expected to have completed their previous education at a reputed institution.
- If the PhD applicant has the certificate of Medium of Instruction as English, then there is no need of TOEFL/IELTS score. Also, there is no need of GRE scores for PhD applicants.
Faculty
8
- I am not sure about the student-faculty ratio, but there are plenty of faculty available on campus. The faculties are very affable and approachable.
Campus Life
10
- The Knoxville campus is very large and has many departments. There are four other campuses as well. There are clubs for different activities, and there are always events happening on campus.
- The libraries are huge and very advanced, offering both physical and digital resources. The university provides R1-level research facilities. The sports culture here is also very strong.
Part Time Jobs
- Students can earn $20-40 per hour both on-campus and off-campus. Generally Doctoral students get. The TA or RA jobs are on campus.
Placement
8
- Most students find jobs after graduating from here. The average salary is around $70,000. There are campus placements, but students also find jobs easily because of the university’s reputation.
Accommodation
Off Campus
10
- I searched the apartment websites. I pay around $900 per month as rent.
Exams
- IELTS/TOEFL scores are needed.
- CV, SOP, at least three LORs, Transcripts
Fees
- As PhD students, we don't have to pay the program fees. The department takes care of it.
