Eligibility:
Students accepted into the Bridge Program typically hold undergraduate degrees (BA/BS) in chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering, or closely related fields by the time of matriculation. Applicants may be recent graduates or have previously completed their undergraduate education. Students who are currently enrolled in or who have already completed a graduate program in Chemistry (including a master’s degree) are not eligible.
The Bridge Program aims to support students who may benefit from additional coursework, research experience, and mentorship prior to pursuing a PhD in chemistry. Students currently enrolled in or who have completed another graduate program in chemistry or a closely related field are not eligible.
Applying to the ACS Bridge Program:
Applications to the UW–Madison Bridge Program are submitted through the Inclusive Graduate Education Network (IGEN) portal. Several professional societies, including the American Chemical Society (ACS), use the IGEN website and common application form to manage Bridge applications. After the April 15 deadline for graduate admissions, IGEN distributes applications to universities hosting Bridge programs, including UW–Madison. Applicants not selected by a specific Bridge site may be considered by other ACS Bridge partner institutions, which may vary in program structure.
If you prefer to be considered only by the UW–Madison Bridge Program, please contact the UW–Madison Bridge program team directly.
More information is available on the ACS Bridge Project website.
Applications are due to IGEN by March 18, 2025. UW–Madison will review applications starting April 15. The UW Bridge Committee will contact semi-finalists shortly after this date for video interviews and may request additional information. Finalists will be offered admission after April 15.
Application materials include:
- Information about your background, career goals, and experiences.
- A copy-and-paste version of your resume or CV.
- Transcripts from all institutions where you’ve earned college credit.
- Names and contact information for three references (at least two should be professors familiar with your research).
- Optional materials, if available (Note: GRE scores are not required and will not be used in the UW–Madison selection process).
Prospective students are encouraged to contact the UW–Madison Bridge program team prior to applying to discuss questions and ensure the program aligns with their goals.
Applying to the ACS Bridge Program means your application will be automatically shared with other ACS Bridge sites and potentially other partner institutions.
How do my research interests affect my application?
Your application through IGEN may be accessible to other ACS Bridge sites and partner institutions. Semi-finalists for the UW–Madison Bridge Program may be asked to provide additional information regarding their research interests, which could be considered during the selection process.
What is it like being a Bridge student?
During the first year, Bridge students arrive three weeks before classes start for an extended orientation, receiving support in housing, academic preparation assessments, and introductions to faculty, peer mentors, and fellow PhD students.
In the academic year, students take appropriate chemistry coursework (undergraduate or graduate-level) with substantial academic support through guided group work sessions and individual tutoring as needed. Bridge students participate in faculty-led research groups, social activities, and gain teaching experience. During the summer, students engage in full-time research. In the second year, students continue with coursework, research, teaching, and prepare for admission into PhD programs.