M.S. and Ph.D. in chemical engineering

Program at a glance

Degrees offered

  • M.S. in chemical engineering
  • Ph.D. in chemical engineering

Admission requirements

  • Minimum GPA: 3.0.
  • GRE: M.S. program not required; Ph.D. program 305 for applicants with a B.S. and not required for applicants with an M.S. degree.
  • Minimum TOEFL: 79

Application deadlines

  • Fall enrollment: Feb. 15 
  • Spring enrollment: Sept. 1

Funding

This program is part of the Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP), a tuition-savings program that makes out-of-state graduate studies more affordable for students. Through WRGP, you will receive a reduced tuition rate, giving you more educational options for your money.

About the M.S. and Ph.D. in chemical engineering

M.S. in chemical engineering

The master's degree in chemical engineering combines upper-level coursework with the opportunity to conduct research on a topic within chemical engineering and write a thesis. To earn the master's degree, students must complete requirements in three main areas:

  1. Core coursework: Core coursework requirements can be found in the course catalog.
  2. Elective coursework: These courses will be selected with the help of your advisory committee.
  3. Thesis: You must write and defend a thesis that is approved by your advisory committee.

You will develop an individualized program of study with your advisory committee. The program of study describes the specific courses, research and related activities you will take to meet your degree requirements. We recommended that you develop a program of study as soon as possible upon arriving at the University.

Ph.D. in chemical engineering

The Ph.D. in chemical engineering trains students to pursue advanced careers in research, teaching or industry. Students gain significant research experience and work closely with faculty to develop expertise on a topic within chemical engineering and conduct original research that advances knowledge in the field.

The chemical engineering faculty have particular expertise in topics related to renewable energy, including:

  • Bioengineering
  • Biomolecular engineering
  • Biofuels
  • Catalysis
  • Energy harvesting and storage
  • Environmental remediation
  • Molecular modeling
  • Polymer science and engineering
  • Solar energy
 

Admissions requirements for the M.S. and Ph.D. in chemical engineering

Applicants to the graduate program should have an undergraduate degree in engineering. Applicants without a chemical engineering degree may submit an application; however, they should expect to take prerequisite undergraduate chemical engineering courses to become eligible for graduate coursework in the program.

In general, students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher should be successful in the graduate program in chemical engineering and are encouraged to apply.

  • GPA

    M.S. and Ph.D. applicants: 3.0

  • GRE

    M.S. applicants: waived

    Ph.D. applicants: 305 for applicants with a B.S. and waived for applicants with an M.S. degree 

  • TOEFL

    For international applicants to both the M.S. and Ph.D. program: A minimum TOEFL of 79 or IELTS of 6.5 

  • Letters of recommendation

    M.S. and Ph.D. applicants: Three letters of recommendation from academic or industry advisors indicating your capability for advanced course work and research.

    You will be asked to enter email addresses for your recommenders when you apply. Your recommenders will then receive an invitation to upload their letters of recommendation. 

  • Personal statement

    M.S. and Ph.D. applicants: A personal statement describing your research interests and career goals.

How to apply

You can start your application through The Graduate School website, which provides detailed instructions on the application process.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. To receive full consideration for funding, apply by the deadlines below:

  • Fall enrollment: Feb. 15
  • Spring enrollment: Sept. 1

 

Find a faculty advisor

Your faculty advisor will help you outline a course of study for your graduate degree and may be able to help you find research assistantships.

 

Program cost and scholarships

Program cost

Information about graduate student tuition and fees is available on The Graduate School website.

Graduate assistantships

Graduate students are eligible to apply for a teaching or research assistantship. All applicants to the program will be considered for available funding, and awards are made on the basis of your academic achievements and potential for graduate success.

You can learn more about graduate assistantships on the Graduate School website.

College of Engineering graduate assistantships

Details on graduate research assistantships funded by the College of Engineering are available on the College website.

Funding resources from the Graduate School

The Graduate School maintains lists of additional funding opportunities from both University and external sources

Funding resources for international students

Information about scholarships and financial aid for international students is also available on the Office of International Students and Scholars website.

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