chemical engineering phd usa

Ph.D./Sc.D. Program

The Doctor of Philosophy and Doctor of Science degrees in Chemical Engineering are identical; students may choose for themselves the appellation they prefer. This traditional, research-based doctoral degree program provides a thorough grounding in the fundamental principles of chemical engineering, as well as an intensive research experience.

The Doctor of Science and the Doctor of Philosophy in Chemical Engineering are identical degree programs. Degree candidates may choose to be called a “doctor of philosophy” or a “doctor of science”.

The degree requires that you complete:

• the core curriculum in chemical engineering
• one chemical engineering H Level class
• the departmental biology requirement
• a minor program of related subjects outside of chemical engineering
• written and oral doctoral qualifying examinations
• the writing and oral defense of a thesis on original research

The core curriculum is:

• Numerical Methods in Chemical Engineering 10.34
• Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics 10.40
• Analysis of Transport Phenomena 10.50
• Chemical Reactor Engineering 10.65

The departmental biology requirement is fulfilled by completing an undergraduate subject equivalent to MIT 7.01x, either at MIT or at your undergraduate institution. Examples of minor programs for some recent doctoral students include applied mathematics, control theory, physical, organic or analytical chemistry, mechanical structure, power systems, process metallurgy, nuclear engineering, management, economics, music, ancient history and philosophy.

The normal duration of the degree program is five to six years. (Including an intermediate M.S. CEP degree normally has little effect on the duration.) A master’s degree is not required for entrance into the doctoral program, nor is the M.S. CEP required.

For incoming, first-year graduate students, academic advisors are members of the Committee for Graduate Students. When you select a research topic and begin your thesis, the research supervisor becomes your academic advisor. In general, students choose research advisors at the end of their first Fall semester at MIT. Should you wish to choose a research advisor from a department other than Chemical Engineering, you will also need to choose a co-advisor from the Chemical Engineering faculty.

Prior to Registration Day (Fall and Spring semesters), your subject selection must first be approved by your advisor before the Graduate Officer can authorize registration on Registration Day. Advisor approval should also be obtained for any subsequent subject add/drop actions during the term (no additional authorization by the Graduate Officer is required).

Best Chemical Engineering Programs

Ranked in 2023, part of Best Engineering Schools

Chemical engineering involves chemistry, biology,

Chemical engineering involves chemistry, biology, math and physics. Graduates may become designers and inventors, potentially working with everything from nanotechnology to new energy. These are the top graduate chemical engineering programs. Each school's score reflects its average rating on a scale from 1 (marginal) to 5 (outstanding), based on a survey of academics at peer institutions. Read the methodology »

For full rankings, GRE scores and student debt data, sign up for the U.S. News Engineering School Compass .

Here are the Best Chemical Engineering Programs

Massachusetts institute of technology, california institute of technology, stanford university, university of california, berkeley, georgia institute of technology, university of minnesota--twin cities, princeton university, university of delaware, university of texas--austin (cockrell).

SEE THE FULL RANKINGS

• Clear Filters

Cambridge , MA

• # 1 in Chemical Engineering
• # 1 in Best Engineering Schools

$57,590 per year (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

3,222 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $75 for U.S. residents and $75 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $57,590 per... Read More »

Engineering school

Tuition and fees (master's).

$57,590 per year (full-time)

ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

Average quantitative gre.

Pasadena , CA

• # 2 in Chemical Engineering  (tie)
• # 7 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

N/A TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

548 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $75 for U.S. residents and $100 for international students. The 2022 Ph.D. student-faculty ratio... Read More »

Stanford , CA

• # 2 in Best Engineering Schools

$66,297 per year (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

3,469 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $125 for U.S. residents and $125 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $66,29... Read More »

$66,297 per year (full-time)

Berkeley , CA

• # 3 in Best Engineering Schools

$11,700 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$26,802 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

2,673 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $135 for U.S. residents and $155 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $11,700... Read More »

$11,700 per year (in-state, full-time)

$26,802 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Atlanta , GA

• # 5 in Chemical Engineering
• # 5 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$14,064 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$29,140 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

4,784 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $75 for U.S. residents and $85 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $14,064 per... Read More »

$14,064 per year (in-state, full-time)

$29,140 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Minneapolis , MN

• # 6 in Chemical Engineering
• # 37 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$1,539 per credit (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$2,382 per credit (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

1,619 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $75 for U.S. residents and $95 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $1,539 per... Read More »

$1,539 per credit (in-state, full-time)

$2,382 per credit (out-of-state, full-time)

Princeton , NJ

• # 7 in Chemical Engineering  (tie)
• # 23 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

850 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $75 for U.S. residents and $75 for international students. The 2022 Ph.D. student-faculty ratio... Read More »

Newark , DE

• # 42 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$17,622 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$17,622 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

912 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The College of Engineering at University of Delaware has a rolling application deadline. The application fee is $75 for... Read More »

$17,622 per year (in-state, full-time)

$17,622 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Austin , TX

$10,554 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$19,320 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

2,395 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Cockrell School of Engineering at University of Texas--Austin (Cockrell) has a rolling application deadline. The... Read More »

$10,554 per year (in-state, full-time)

$19,320 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

University of Michigan--Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor , MI

• # 10 in Chemical Engineering

$29,466 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$55,276 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

3,800 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The College of Engineering at University of Michigan--Ann Arbor has a rolling application deadline. The application fee... Read More »

$29,466 per year (in-state, full-time)

$55,276 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

University of California--Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara , CA

• # 11 in Chemical Engineering
• # 27 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$12,852 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$27,954 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

789 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $135 for U.S. residents and $155 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $12,85... Read More »

$12,852 per year (in-state, full-time)

$27,954 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Grainger)

Urbana , IL

• # 12 in Chemical Engineering  (tie)
• # 11 in Best Engineering Schools

$19,320 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$36,798 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

3,812 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $70 for U.S. residents and $90 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $19,320 per... Read More »

$19,320 per year (in-state, full-time)

$36,798 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

University of Wisconsin--Madison

Madison , WI

$10,728 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$24,054 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

1,574 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $75 for U.S. residents and $81 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $10,728 per... Read More »

$10,728 per year (in-state, full-time)

$24,054 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

See all 144 Ranked Schools

Get the U.S. News Grad Schools School Compass and start finding the grad schools school that's right for you. You'll have access to expanded data including GMAT scores, financial aid information, graduate salary and employment statistics and more!

More Schools in this List (Alphabetical)

Arizona State University (Fulton)

• in Chemical Engineering
• # 41 in Best Engineering Schools

$12,014 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$32,656 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

4,464 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $70 for U.S. residents and $115 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $12,01... Read More »

$12,014 per year (in-state, full-time)

$32,656 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Auburn University (Ginn)

Auburn , AL

• # 55 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$10,386 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$31,158 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

636 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Samuel Ginn College of Engineering at Auburn University (Ginn) has a rolling application deadline. The application... Read More »

$10,386 per year (in-state, full-time)

$31,158 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Brigham Young University (Fulton)

• # 127 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$7,932 per year (LDS member, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$15,864 per year (Non-LDS member, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

424 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee is $50 for U.S. residents and $50 for international students. Its tuition is full-time: $7,932 per... Read More »

$7,932 per year (LDS member, full-time)

$15,864 per year (Non-LDS member, full-time)

Brown University

Providence , RI

• # 63 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$9,132 per credit (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$9,132 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

The School of Engineering at Brown University has a rolling application deadline. The application fee is $75 for U.S... Read More »

$9,132 per credit (full-time)

$9,132 per credit (part-time)

Carnegie Mellon University (Carnegie)

Pittsburgh , PA

$52,100 per year (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$2,172 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

4,843 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Carnegie Institute of Technology at Carnegie Mellon University (Carnegie) has a rolling application deadline. The... Read More »

$52,100 per year (full-time)

$2,172 per credit (part-time)

Case Western Reserve University (Case)

Cleveland , OH

• # 53 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$50,838 per year (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$2,119 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

659 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Case School of Engineering at Case Western Reserve University (Case) has a rolling application deadline. The... Read More »

$50,838 per year (full-time)

$2,119 per credit (part-time)

Clarkson University (Coulter)

Potsdam , NY

• # 168 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

198 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Wallace H. Coulter School of Engineering at Clarkson University (Coulter) has a rolling application deadline. The... Read More »

Clemson University

Clemson , SC

• # 77 in Best Engineering Schools  (tie)

$10,858 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$22,566 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

1,339 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences at Clemson University has a rolling application deadline... Read More »

$10,858 per year (in-state, full-time)

$22,566 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Cleveland State University (Washkewicz)

• # 183-202 in Best Engineering Schools

$590 per credit (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

$1,011 per credit (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (MASTER'S)

960 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Washkewicz College of Engineering at Cleveland State University (Washkewicz) has a rolling application deadline... Read More »

$590 per credit (in-state, full-time)

$1,011 per credit (out-of-state, full-time)

• Graduate programs

Ph.D. in chemical engineering

• Ph.D. program requirements
• Application mentorship program

Advance your career by developing groundbreaking solutions to worldwide issues, including health, sustainability, and energy. The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Chemical Engineering program at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) provides unmatched opportunities to investigate captivating areas at the intersection of technology and society.

Graduate admission

With a chemical engineering Ph.D. from CMU, you will be an independent researcher equipped to apply chemical engineering principles and advanced analytical and experimental techniques to pose and solve open-ended research problems. Complete your degree in four to five years and prepare for a career in academia, industry, or government research.

CMU's College of Engineering ranks fifth in the U.S. News & World Report list of best graduate engineering programs,  with our chemical engineering programs ranked 14th. Explore our Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering and advance your career in this vital, innovative field.

Why earn a Doctor of Philosophy in Chemical Engineering at Carnegie Mellon?

Make world-changing discoveries.

CMU's chemical engineering Ph.D. program empowers you to conduct leading-edge research that tackles critical global challenges. The world-renowned faculty in the Department of Chemical Engineering leads the way in advancing impactful solutions for our world.

The department's research areas include:

• Air quality and climate
• Energy, decarbonization, and sustainability
• Process systems engineering
• Biotechnology and pharmaceutical engineering
• Catalysis and surface science
• Soft materials and complex fluids

Learn in a collaborative, collegial research environment

We strive to foster a research environment that leads to fresh perspectives and trailblazing results. The faculty actively engages with colleagues across various departments at CMU and beyond. This interconnected approach enables CMU Ph.D. students to seek guidance from faculty with different areas of expertise to find novel solutions.

This collaborative ethos also extends to our facilities. The chemical engineering department has adopted an open plan for its laboratories, so students can easily share equipment and exchange ideas for new breakthroughs.

Finally, we encourage Ph.D. candidates to go beyond chemical engineering courses to select electives in related engineering and science disciplines. Cross-disciplinary studies help amplify the breadth and depth of scholarship while aligning with research goals.

Advance the state-of-the-art with your Ph.D. thesis

Our chemical engineering Ph.D. program empowers you to author and defend a thesis that advances scholarship in the field through original research. You will work closely with a faculty advisor who meets with you regularly to guide you.

You will analyze and communicate your findings in a substantive thesis and defend it before a thesis committee. You may even publish parts or all of your thesis in scientific journals or present them at conferences.

Through this rigorous process, you develop into an independent and innovative chemical engineering researcher ready to take on new challenges and make discoveries in academia or industry.

Join a supportive community for doctoral students

Our Ph.D. students hail from the United States and around the globe, and we prioritize ensuring students feel welcome in our department, whether through research groups or departmental gatherings. This culture helps students form lifelong friendships and professional connections with fellow graduate students.

Many students also join the Chemical Engineering Graduate Student Association (ChEGSA).  This student-run organization helps peers bond through seminars, socials, and networking events. It also hosts the ChEGSA Symposium, a two-day event where graduate students present their ongoing research and make networking connections with industry guests and alumni.

Meet chemical engineering Ph.D. students

Mariah L. Arral

Arral honored as one of AIChE’s 35 Under 35

Robert MacKnight

Student spotlight: Robert MacKnight

Studying microbes in marine environments and microcapsules

Curriculum for the Doctor of Philosophy in Chemical Engineering

The Ph.D. program takes four to five years to complete, depending on prior education experience.

• Direct Entry students have a bachelor's degree and can fulfill all Ph.D. requirements in four years plus two semesters.
• Advanced Entry students have a Master of Science in Chemical Engineering or similar and can complete the Ph.D. program in four years or less.

Students take advanced courses in chemical engineering and can choose to take other engineering courses in the College of Engineering . In addition, students take a Qualifying Exam and write a Research Proposal that prepares them to write and defend their Ph.D. thesis.

Learn more about the chemical engineering Ph.D. program requirements.

Meet the Department of Chemical Engineering faculty

Ph.D. students work alongside CMU’s world-class professors.

Meet the faculty

Careers and outcomes for chemical engineering Ph.D. students

A Ph.D. in chemical engineering from Carnegie Mellon opens up an expansive world of opportunity in research. Our graduates secure rewarding careers advancing innovations at leading companies and laboratories.

In 2020-2023, CMU Ph.D. graduates found roles at:

• Air Products & Chemicals
• AstraZeneca
• Boston Consulting Group
• Eli Lilly and Company
• Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies
• Los Alamos National Laboratory
• Northwestern University
• Princeton University
• University of California, Santa Barbara
• University of Wisconsin

Job titles for our doctorate graduates include:

• AI researcher
• Postdoctoral fellow or researcher
• Research engineer
• Research scientist
• Senior data scientist
• Senior engineer
• Senior research specialist

Median salary* : $120,000

*Based on survey results from program graduates

See more post-graduation salaries and destination information for recent CMU Ph.D. students.

Chemical engineering program Ph.D. funding

The Department of Chemical Engineering pays tuition and stipends for all full-time Ph.D. students who make sufficient progress toward degree completion. Students are required to pay for books and course supplies.

A Direct Entry student is supported for up to fourteen semesters (including summer semesters), and Advanced Entry students are supported for up to twelve semesters (including summer semesters).

At CMU, we welcome applicants of different backgrounds to apply to our chemical engineering Ph.D. program. That's why ChEGSA offers an application mentorship program that pairs prospective students with a current ChemE graduate student.

Students work one-on-one with mentors to:

• Discuss your academic journey and goals
• Ask for tips on organizing application materials
• Receive constructive feedback on your CV and essays
• Get any questions answered about the program or application process

You also receive an application fee waiver for participating in the program.

Learn more about the application mentorship program.

See how current Ph.D. students have benefited from the program .

Admissions and application deadlines

Learn more about the admissions process

• Ph.D. program information sessions
• Graduate admissions FAQs

To apply to CMU's Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering program, you should have:

• completed a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or a related engineering or science discipline at an accredited university OR
• completed a master's degree in chemical engineering or a related engineering or science discipline at an accredited university

The Ph.D. program admits students for the fall and spring semesters.

• Fall term of entry deadline : December 15
• Spring term of entry deadline : September 1

Take the next step toward earning your chemical engineering Ph.D.

Gain expertise to advance scholarship and transform society through Carnegie Mellon University's Doctor of Philosophy in Chemical Engineering program. Our research-intensive curriculum, cross-disciplinary thinking, and world-class faculty mentors empower you to pioneer solutions to global challenges.

Request info

• Undergraduate Program
• Graduate Programs
• Graduate Students
• Research Areas
• Faculty by Type
• Research and Academic Professionals
• Administrative Staff
• Advisory Council
• CBE Industry Council
• Cornell Energy Systems Institute (CESI)
• Olin Hall Machine Shop
• Unit Operations Lab
• Olin Hall News
• Alumni Spotlights
• Robert F. Smith '85
• Class Photos
• Job Openings
• Distinguished Lectures
• Diversity and Inclusion Program
• Graduate Alumni Reunion
• Robert Frederick Smith Gift: Impact and Initiatives

Doctoral Program (Ph.D.)

The Smith School’s Ph.D. in chemical engineering will prepare you for careers in academia and research. The program is completed in four to five years, and students typically receive full funding.

Why earn a Ph.D. in chemical engineering at the Smith School?

As your pursue your ph.d., you’ll be prepared to make significant contributions to the field—and you’ll be in good company. .

Not only are our chemical engineering faculty leading researchers and facilities continually improving with state-of-the-art upgrades and equipment, the culture of collegiality at the Smith School is unmatched. While you’re progressing toward your thesis and diploma, you’ll be surrounded by a community of scholars that is contributing to something greater and embracing the founding principles of Cornell University .

The graduate student experience reflects a thriving community among its student groups and initiatives; curriculum includes components of lab safety and research ethics; and faculty and research students are working toward ensuring that future CBE classes are composed of demographically diverse students through new programming. The Smith School’s community stands out as a differentiating factor—not only will you make significant contributions to the field, but you’ll be part of a group that is making a societal impact in more ways than one.

Request More Information

• CBE Research Areas
• CBE Faculty Directory

Degree progression and requirements

As a Ph.D. student, you’ll complete a select set of core courses, take two exams, and complete a thesis with oversight from your faculty Special Committee. You are also required to minor in two subjects. The Ph.D. program is very flexible and allows students to shape their studies with graduate-level electives.

Typical Ph.D. in chemical engineering sequence

First-year transition course.

First-year Ph.D. students take CHEME 6920 - Principles and Practices of Graduate Research. Topics include the culture and responsibilities of graduate research and the professional community; the mechanics of conducting research (experimental design, data analysis, serendipity in research, avoiding self-deception); documenting research (lab notebooks, computer files); and reporting research (writing a technical paper and oral presentations). 

Required courses

All new Ph.D. students are required to take four core classes during the first two years of study.

• CHEME 6130 - Advanced Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics 
• CHEME 6240 - Advanced Fluid Mechanics and Heat Transfer OR  CHEME 6230 - Transport Phenomena for Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering 
• CHEME 6110 - Mathematical Methods of Chemical Engineering Analysis
• CHEME 6420 - Chemical Kinetics and Transport OR CHEME 6430 - Advanced Principles of Biomolecular Engineering

Examinations for Ph.D. students

Research Progress Assessment (RPA) — Typically after the first year, Ph.D. students complete this oral and written evaluation to assess their proficiency in chemical      engineering fundamentals and research.

Examination for Admission to Candidacy (A Exam) — After the second year (semester 4), Ph.D. students complete this exam to confirm their ability to undertake original research and present an appropriate plan for their thesis project. Before taking the A Exam, students must complete a mandatory CPR, a First Aid class and the four required core classes.

Ph.D. candidacy

Ph.D. candidates (post- A Exam) complete their research, deliver a yearly Work-in-Progress (WIP) seminar, and defend their findings.

• Request Information
• Find Faculty & Staff
• Info For Toggle Info Return to Menu Menu
• Search Open Search Close Search
• Message from the Chair
• Department Directory
• Undergraduate Studies
• Graduate Studies
• Co-op & Experiential Learning
• Research Areas
• Available Research Services and Equipment
• Faculty and Staff Directory
• Part-Time Faculty
• Annual Reports
• Honors & Distinctions
• Faculty Hiring
• Student Groups
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
• Industrial Advisory Board
• Resources for Current Students
• In the Media
• Spotlight Stories

PhD in Chemical Engineering

The graduate program in chemical engineering offers students the opportunity to work on cutting-edge research that tackles pressing challenges facing our society and our planet in areas such as biomedicine, energy, security, and sustainability. Students also develop an in-depth understanding of the principles of chemical engineering through core coursework and applied electives. The overarching goal of this rich research and educational experience is to mentor and to equip our students to become future leaders in engineering and science, while simultaneously promoting scholarly achievement for both the faculty and students.

• Program Details
• Degree Requirements
• Degree Requirements - Advanced Entry
• Admissions Information
• Tuition & Financial Aid
• Admitted Students: Plan of Study & CV (pdf)

Innovative Curriculum

Doctoral candidates are able to select thesis topics from a diverse range of faculty research interests. The department’s research focus areas are Biomolecular and Biomedical Systems; Complex and Computational Systems; Energy and Sustainability; Engineering Education and Pedagogy; and Materials and Nanotechnology. With a premier location in downtown Boston, research in the department leverages the wealth of collaborations with neighboring universities, hospitals, medical centers and industry. New or prospective graduate students can learn about ongoing research topics from individual faculty members, faculty web sites and graduate student seminars. Graduate student seminars, where our students present the results of their research, are held on a regular basis and provide an interactive forum for learning and exchanging ideas.

• ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems.
• ability to explain and apply engineering design principles, as appropriate to the program’s educational objectives.
• Use appropriate methods to analyze research data and interpret the findings.
• Effectively communicate the work to its intended audiences, through professional written and oral communication skills.
• Define research objectives.
• Choose and use appropriate research methods to achieve the defined objectives.
• Critically analyze one’s own research work and existing scholarship in the field, including identifying gaps in knowledge.
• Barrett Smith, PhD’24
• Zach Rogers, PhD'23
• Caterina Bartomeu Garcia, PhD’22
• Abhijeet Parvatker, PhD’21
• Learn more.
• Scholarship Report

Experiential Learning

Northeastern combines rigorous academics with experiential learning and research to prepare students for real-world engineering challenges including industry experience as part of the co-op program or an internship. The Cooperative Education Program , also known as a “co-op,” is one of the largest and most innovative in the world, and Northeastern is one of only a few that offers a Co-op Program for graduate students. Through this program, students gain professional experience employed in their field of interest as part of the academic curriculum. Northeastern has over 3,000 co-op employer partners in a wide variety of organizations, from large companies to entrepreneurial start-ups. Students can also participate in the university’s Experiential PhD program .

Academic Advising

The Academic Advisors in the Graduate Student Services office can help answer many of your questions and assist with various concerns regarding your program and student record. Use the link below to also determine which questions can be answered by your Faculty Program Advisors and OGS Advisors.

• Graduate Student Services

Admissions & Aid

Ready to take the next step? Review degree requirements to see courses needed to complete this degree. Then, explore ways to fund your education. Finally, review admissions information to see our deadlines and gather the materials you need to Apply.

Student News

Researching Data for Life-Cycle Assessments and Chemical Sustainability

CEE Associate Professor Matthew Eckelman and Abhijeet Parvatker, PhD’21, chemical engineering, collaborated on research about how the health care industry contributes to national and global emissions. This research later led Parvatker to pursue a consultant managing role at Sphera Solutions.

2024 Lux. Veritas. Virtus. Inductees

Twenty-three engineering graduate students were inducted into the newly established Lux. Veritas. Virtus. society, a prestigious honor that recognizes exceptional graduate students who exemplify the university’s mission, ideals, and values.

‘Emerging Investigators’ Are Studying Flow of Soft Materials Through Tiny Spaces

ChE Assistant Professor Sara Hashmi and Barrett Smith, PhD’24, chemical engineering, were recognized as part of the “Emerging Investigators” series of the Royal Society of Chemistry journal Soft Matter. Smith was first author of their paper, “In Situ Polymer Gelation in Confined Flow Controls Intermittent Dynamics,” which uncovers novel flow behavior in crosslinking biopolymers.

COE Research Expo Displays Promising Work of PhD Students

The College of Engineering held a research expo to highlight the work of PhD students. Participants presented their research to a panel of judges and gained critical presentation and communication skills. They also displayed their research during the poster showcase and students were recognized with awards.

Departments

• Applied Physics
• Biomedical Engineering
• Center for Urban Science and Progress
• Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
• Civil and Urban Engineering
• Computer Science and Engineering
• Electrical and Computer Engineering
• Finance and Risk Engineering
• Mathematics
• Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
• Technology, Culture and Society
• Technology Management and Innovation

Degrees & Programs

• Bachelor of Science
• Master of Science
• Doctor of Philosophy
• Digital Learning
• Certificate Programs
• NYU Tandon Bridge
• Undergraduate
• Records & Registration
• Digital Learning Services
• Teaching Innovation
• Explore NYU Tandon
• Year in Review
• Strategic Plan
• Diversity & Inclusion

News & Events

• Social Media

Looking for News or Events ?

Chemical Engineering, Ph.D.

• Request Information

Chemical engineering is part of a rapidly expanding field that requires interdisciplinary engineers educated in both the molecular and medical sciences. For every discovery made in the health and industrial sectors, a chemical engineer finds a way to develop and implement it on a large scale.

The Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering program at the School of Engineering prepares you to fulfill that role. Our curriculum offers an advanced course of study to refine your research skills, and we teach you the problem-solving skills to surmount any problem along the way.

Our Ph.D. program in Chemical Engineering is designed to outfit you with expert knowledge of the field’s core fundamentals as well as the latest research in its subtopics. By doing so, we further your specialization beyond a master’s degree, helping you achieve superior competence in a minor topic within chemical engineering.

Admission Requirements

A BS degree in chemical engineering or a related field of science or engineering is generally required for admission to graduate study. If you earned a bachelor’s degree from a foreign institution, you must submit TOEFL scores. Submitting graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores are optional. Applicants with degrees in other fields or from other colleges may be admitted with undergraduate or graduate deficiencies as evaluated by the graduate adviser. You will need to have had at least one course in differential equations.

Find out more about  Admission Requirements .

Urban Science Doctoral Track

Each doctoral candidate must complete a minimum of 75 credits of academic work past the bachelor’s degree, including a minimum of 36 credits of dissertation research, to complete the Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering program. A minimum of 30 graduate credits beyond the bachelor’s degree (not including Ph.D. dissertation and non-dissertation research credits) are required in chemical engineering or related subjects. Of the 30 credits, 12 are to be taken as part of the required graduate core courses in Chemical Engineering and 18 are taken as electives. For electives: at least 3 electives (9 credits) are to be chosen from approved CBE courses, 6000-level and above. The remaining electives need to be selected in consultation with and with the explicit approval from the chemical engineering graduate adviser. In addition to the required coursework, attendance is required at departmental colloquia.

Students must also pass a comprehensive qualifying examination in chemical engineering and present a doctoral dissertation. The qualifying exam is given once a year. Additional details on the qualifying examination will be provided by the graduate adviser.

To meet graduation requirements, students must have an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher, excluding dissertation credits, and must not obtain a grade of C or lower in more than two required core courses.

A student who has earned graduate level credits and/or been awarded an MS degree should consult with the graduate adviser for course registration and possible credit transfer.

Important Information and Forms:

• Ph.D. Guidelines
• Committee Form
• Evaluation Rubric  
• PhD Exit Survey

Quick Links

• Graduate Admissions

Academic Director

Jin Ryoun Kim

Daniela Blanco

PhD Admissions

Main navigation, page contents, phd application timeline & deadline, phd admissions overview, phd admissions requirements, knight-hennessy scholars, phd frequently asked questions.

The Department of Chemical Engineering accepts applications to our graduate programs once per year for Autumn quarter entry only.

The application deadline for Autumn 2024 entry is December 1, 2023, at 11:59pm (PST).   All applications completed and received by this date will receive full consideration.  No late applications will be accepted.

All components of a graduate application must be received by the department no later than the appropriate deadline - including letters of recommendation.  Once submitted, applications are considered final, and no further updates are accepted.  Application review begins immediately so on-time submission of all materials is critical. 

A complete application consists of a completed application form, a statement of purpose (a summary of research experience for PhD applications), the application fee, three letters of recommendation, and TOEFL examination results (scores and percentages) if applicable.

The PhD application season is late-September through mid-December each year. The application is closed. No late applications will be accepted.

Our Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program is open to all applicants who have completed a bachelor’s degree or will have completed one before matriculating as a graduate student at Stanford. 

What We Look For ChemE PhD students come from a wide variety of personal, educational, and professional backgrounds. We welcome applicants with undergraduate degrees in diverse STEM disciplines including Bioengineering, Biophysics, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Biochemistry, Physics, and Chemistry. There are no specific course requirements for applicants, but a competitive candidate will have strong quantitative training in mathematics and the physical sciences, along with a background in biology acquired through coursework or prior research. All admitted graduate students should be prepared to take the core courses in the first year.

We welcome students entering directly from undergraduate programs, as well as applicants with MS degrees and/or substantial work experience in areas ranging from biotechnology to robotics. Our admissions committee will look for evidence that an applicant has demonstrated qualities of successful PhD students such as creativity, self-initiative, dedication, and perseverance. We also aim to admit Chemical Engineering students who can thrive at Stanford because their specific interests and aspirations are well-matched with the research of our faculty and the educational environment of our department.

Individual Chemical Engineering faculty members do not admit applicants directly to their research groups. Please do not send individual faculty members or staff informal documents and appeals for informal evaluations and/or admission to a research group. We are unable to provide informal recommendations / evaluations on the basis of partial information such as a CV, test scores or a transcript. Inquiries and materials sent to individual professors may or may not be redirected to administrative staff. We encourage potential applicants to consider discussing their issues with faculty recommenders who know them well and could give better, individualized academic advice.

Applications are reviewed by a committee of faculty that hold appointments in ChemE and represent diverse research expertise. Each application is read in full and evaluated by at least two separate committee members. The applicants who are considered most competitive are then discussed by the entire admissions committee who attempt to balance the research interests, perspectives, and backgrounds & experiences in the final cohort of students who are offered admission.

The Department of Chemical Engineering considers the following in offering admission to our program:  

• Academic preparation - applicant seeks and excels in coursework relevant to chemical engineering
• Quality of prior research experience - applicant takes advantage of available research opportunities, has made meaningful contributions in their research, and has engaged in depth in experimental or theoretical work
• Demonstrated resilience - applicant demonstrates an ability to overcome obstacles that present challenges in educational and training experiences
• Curiosity, creativity - for example, as demonstrated by applicant’s chosen engagement in research opportunities and coursework
• Motivation - applicant clearly describes personal motivation for graduate training and engagement in PhD research, demonstrated work ethic, and/or track record of pursuing available research and training opportunities
• Maturity and preparedness - e.g. as demonstrated by applicant’s past engagement in activities and classes, ability to work in teams, leadership roles, and/or demonstrated commitment to scholarly work
• Potential contribution to Stanford Chemical Engineering community

IMPORTANT: These departmental instructions and requirements are SUPPLEMENTAL to the  university-wide requirements  for each and every application for admission to any advanced degree program at Stanford University.

Application Materials

A degree in chemical engineering is not required but applicants should be familiar with key concepts and their applications. This typically means applicants have degrees in other science and engineering disciplines such as bioengineering, biology, chemistry, materials science, mathematics, mechanical engineering and physics. We are looking for coursework or other experiences demonstrating use of higher-level mathematics (e.g. linear algebra, partial differential equations) and recommend completion of core chemical engineering courses (e.g. fluid mechanics, heat and mass transport phenomena, chemical reaction kinetics, thermodynamics). An MS degree is not a prerequisite for admission to our PhD program or for PhD degree conferral. 

We invite excellent students from all backgrounds, including those from historically underrepresented groups in engineering, to consider Stanford University for their graduate studies. In making admissions decisions, the Department of Chemical Engineering will comply with the requirements of the law as determined by the Supreme Court of the United States, evaluating each applicant based on their “experiences as an individual—not on the basis of race.” We continue to value a diverse student body that benefits the educational experience of our students and our mission of generating knowledge at Stanford University.

1.Completed Online Application

Access  online application

2. Enriching the Learning Community

Stanford University welcomes graduate applications from individuals with a broad range of experiences, interests, and backgrounds who would contribute to our community of scholars. We invite you to share the lived experiences, demonstrated values, perspectives, and/or activities that shape you as a scholar and would help you to make a distinctive contribution to Stanford University.

3. Transcripts/Education History

Applicants are required to upload copies of their transcripts/academic records (including any legends/keys) directly into the online application. Please ensure that your scans are legible since the Admissions Committee will use them in their review process. Official transcripts will only be required for applicants who are admitted and accept the offer of graduate admission. Please do not arrange for any official transcripts to be sent to the department or Stanford graduate admissions until that time.

When completing the “Educational History 1” section of the application, you will be asked to list every college and university you have attended for a year or more, and any degree program in which you are currently enrolled. Please list the highest undergraduate degree awarded (e.g. Bachelor’s, Diploma, Maitrise, etc.) in the “Post-Secondary Institution 1” section.

4. Statement of Purpose (2 pages maximum)

In your statement of purpose, you should succinctly describe your reasons for applying to the Chemical Engineering PhD program, which may include:

Preparation and motivation for graduate study in Chemical Engineering

• Aspects of your background and interests outside of research that are directly relevant to thriving in graduate school, such as obstacles overcome and experience in service and leadership
• Motivation for pursuing a PhD drawing from specific examples of research , relevant work experience, and/or personal interests
• Possible general areas of research you might pursue
• Possible general areas of Chemical Engineering that you might pursue in your career
• Any faculty member’s research that is of specific interest to you
• Many experience obstacles in your education, especially during this past year. Please also feel free to provide further explanation about any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your academic preparation

The maximum length is two pages (single-spaced). Your statement of purpose should be a well-structured essay that effectively communicates the information above while demonstrating your expository writing ability; it is often effective to open with a summary paragraph.

5. Three letters of recommendation

Recommenders should know you well and be able to comment on your strengths and your potential for graduate study. Our faculty strongly prefer letters of recommendation from academic (or professional) references who can speak to your academic and/or research background (e.g. professors who have acted as research supervisors, or instructors who have had extensive individual interactions with you). Letters must be submitted by the stated deadline as application review begins immediately. Late letters will not be reviewed. Additionally, our faculty find it helpful to hear from references who can comment on your personal qualities that would enable you to succeed in our graduate programs (such as your work ethic, commitment to goals, passion for learning and teaching, and capacity to overcome adversity), even if these references are from outside of STEM fields (e.g. coaches, academic advisors, and university leaders). Additional recommenders beyond the 3 required Letters of Recommendation are not requested.  

The Department of Chemical Engineering does not accept letters of recommendation submitted through Interfolio.

6. List of Research Experience (CV/Resume format) - 1 page limit

Your Research Experience provides the admissions committee with additional information to better evaluate your preparation and fit for our program. This is an opportunity to summarize your qualifications, honors, educational accomplishments (including publications and presentations) and interests. It should be a bulleted list, and can be structured similarly to a CV or resume and include relevant experience.  Please note:  The application portal labels this the "Resume/CV" in the Experience section of the application and incorrectly states the page length is 3 pages. Please adhere to 1 page and upload your "List of Research Experience" where the application portal shows the "Resume/CV". 

7. TOEFL scores

Applicants whose first spoken language is not English are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), unless they qualify for an exemption or waiver. Applicants whose scores fall below Stanford’s minimum TOEFL requirements will still be considered for admission; if admitted, Stanford may require these students to take a placement exam and/or classes to satisfy the University’s English proficiency requirement.

TOEFL scores are retained for 20 months. For questions about the validity of TOEFL scores, please contact ETS. If ETS is able to send your TOEFL scores, we will accept them. Stanford currently does not accept scores from the IELTS exam.

8. Application Fee

Applicants who need assistance with the application fee are encouraged to apply for a fee waiver. Preference is given to low-income, first-generation, and underrepresented minority students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

For applicants who are not receiving a waiver, a nonrefundable application fee of $125 is required for each application submitted to a graduate program at Stanford University. The fee must be paid through the payment section of the online application. The only accepted method of payment is by credit/debit card (Visa or MasterCard only).

Graduate Fee Waiver

Join dozens of  Stanford Engineering students  who gain valuable leadership skills in a multidisciplinary, multicultural community as  Knight-Hennessy Scholars  (KHS). KHS admits up to 100 select applicants each year from across Stanford’s seven graduate schools, and delivers engaging experiences that prepare them to be visionary, courageous, and collaborative leaders ready to address complex global challenges. As a scholar, you join a distinguished cohort, participate in up to three years of leadership programming, and receive full funding for up to three years of your PhD studies at Stanford. Candidates of any country may apply. KHS applicants must have earned their first undergraduate degree within the last seven years, and must apply to both a Stanford graduate program and to KHS. Stanford PhD students may also apply to KHS during their first year of PhD enrollment. If you aspire to be a leader in your field, we invite you to apply. The KHS application deadline is October 11, 2023. Learn more about  KHS admission . 

My official test scores will not arrive by the application deadline! Can I still apply?

Yes, you may still apply. You should take your ETS tests and request that scores be submitted to Stanford as well. Your application will not be considered complete until your official transcripts and test scores arrive. We will contact otherwise competitive applicants with incomplete applications for follow-up. Be sure your e-email address and telephone number are correct.

Are TOEFL scores required for admission?

In general, yes, if your first language is not English. On your application, self-report both your ETS scores and percentages. The Graduate Admissions website has further details about the university-wide test requirements and exceptions. Any request for a TOEFL waiver must to directed to central Graduate Admissions. Individual academic departments may not approve requests for waivers.  In general, there is a high expectation for English language fluency in both formal use and informal interactions, in written and oral situations. One of the key goals of our educational programs is the further development of communication skills in English and ongoing opportunities are built into the curriculum.

Is there a TOEFL exemption process if I received a degree from an institution whose primary instruction was in English?

TOEFL scores are required of all applicants whose first language is not English. Exemptions are granted to applicants who have earned a US bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree from a college or university accredited by a regional accrediting association in the United States, or the international equivalent degree from a university of recognized standing in a country in which all instruction is provide in English (Australia, Canada except Quebec, New Zealand, Singapore, and the UK. Stanford does not accept IELTS scores. More information can be found on the  Graduate Admissions website .

Do I need to select an advisor before starting the program?

Each first-year PhD student rotates with two different faculty research groups before choosing an advisor and lab in which to develop his or her own research projects. The rotations enable students to gain a better understanding of a given faculty member’s research program and to determine if that lab is a good fit for their future research. Furthermore, during the first six months, there are multiple opportunities to talk with a wide range of faculty members about their research.

I’m applying to the Knight-Hennessy Program. What’s my deadline? Do I need to do both applications?

You should submit two independent applications if you are applying to the Knight-Hennessy Program - one to the Chemical Engineering department by Dec 1 and one to Knight-Hennessy by their deadline. You should be sure to complete both your Knight-Hennessy application by their deadline of October 11, 2023. These applications are independent and separate. Be sure you complete each set of requirements for each separate application. Please visit the  Knight-Hennessy Website  for more information regarding the Knight Hennessy Scholars program.

Can I visit the department?

Admitted PhD applicants will be invited to visit the department and meet with our students and faculty.

May I apply to start graduate work in other times of the year than Autumn Quarter?

For programmatic and curricular reasons, admitted students should plan to commence studies at the beginning of the academic year, in September.

Are GRE scores required for admission?

GRE scores are no longer required or accepted as part of an applicant’s application materials.

What kinds of financial aid are available?

Fellowship awards, assistantship jobs and loans through the university. The department is the first point of contact for the administration of most external fellowships (NSF, NDSEG, DOD, DOE, NIH, Hughes, Bell/Lucent and various foundations,), university fellowships (Stanford Graduate Fellowship), School of Engineering and departmental fellowships, and research and teaching assistantships. The university's Financial Aid Office helps graduate students obtain loans.

What are my chances of getting financial aid?

We offer financial aid at the time of admission to approximately the top 5-10 percent of the PhD applicants, and virtually all the first-year PhD students in Chemical Engineering receive aid. Faculty hold workshops to help PhD students write research proposals and apply for external fellowships. Once PhD students join a research group, normally they are supported either by fellowship awards or assistantship jobs from their research advisors or a combination of these two sources of funds.

What is the usual size of the incoming chemical engineering PhD Class?

Recently, the incoming PhD classes have numbered in the mid-20s.

When will I find out about the decision on my application?

All applicants must maintain current and correct email addresses so we can communicate with you via email. PhD applicants can expect to hear from us in January/February. The final PhD decisions are made after the December PhD deadline so the entire pool may be considered. PhD decisions will be communicated to all applicants, in writing, via email.

Further questions can be directed to  [email protected]

Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

Our Ph.D. program seeks to provide cutting-edge training in chemical engineering research areas including biotechnology, catalysis, electrochemistry, energy and the environment, polymers, and separations. Students experience close interaction with faculty members, work in excellent research facilities, and participate in multidisciplinary research centers across Grounds.

Nearly 90% of the roughly 70 students in our graduate program are pursuing a Ph.D. All students accepted into our doctoral program may expect to receive financial support as long as they maintain satisfactory progress toward the degree.

Admissions Process for the Graduate Program

Prospective graduate students apply to the chemical engineering graduate program online through the University of Virginia. Generally, graduate students are admitted and begin their studies during the fall semester. Admission to the department is highly competitive, and applications are thoroughly and carefully reviewed to identify tenacious and curious applicants with research interests and goals that align with department research activities and who have demonstrated excellence in prior academic, research, and leadership activities.

Online Application for U.S. Citizens and International Students

Special instructions and information for  international applicants

Deadlines (for fall semester admission)

• U.S. Citizens: January 15 (for financial aid consideration) or August 1
• International Applicants: January 15 (for financial aid consideration) or April 1

IMPORTANT! Students seeking financial assistance for fall semester admission should complete their application by January 15. Applications received after this date may be considered, but financial aid may no longer be available.

GRE Scores: The Department of Chemical Engineering no longer receives or reviews GRE scores.

For department-specific graduate admissions questions, please contact:  [email protected]

Dissertation Proposal and Admission to Candidacy

The dissertation proposal should be completed within two years of completing the research exam (doctoral qualifying exam). The proposal should indicate the purpose and objectives of the work to be undertaken, the current state of the art with bibliography, and the strategy to be followed and techniques to be employed in the research. Preliminary data, calculations, and/or theoretical developments may be included in support of the proposed work. The proposal will be presented orally and discussed publicly. The doctoral advisory committee will serve as the dissertation proposal exam committee.

If in the judgment of the advisory committee the student's proposal is not satisfactory, the student may be required to submit a revised proposal for further discussion with the advisory committee.

The purposes of the dissertation proposal are:

• To determine if the student's knowledge of the area chosen for research and the pertinent literature is adequate
• To determine whether the proposed work, if completed, would provide the basis for an acceptable dissertation
• To advise the student on general approaches and specific techniques that may be helpful in the proposed research

Ph.D. Job Placement Following Graduation

Employers of UVA Chemical Engineering Ph.D. Graduates Include:

• Bucknell University
• Florida State University
• University of Wyoming
• Michigan Tech
• Penn State University
• Purdue University
• University of Florida
• University of Missouri
• University of Tennessee
• China University of Petroleum
• Indian Institute of Technology Delhi
• General Electric
• General Motors
• United Technologies
• Bristol-Myers Squibb
• GlaxoSmithKline
• MeadWestVaCo
• Klöckner-Pentaplast
• Argonne National Lab

The information contained on this website is for informational purposes only.  The Undergraduate Record and Graduate Record represent the official repository for academic program requirements. These publications may be found here .

Chemical engineering (MS, PhD)

Extensive research facilities, world-renowned faculty and a distinctive research environment all come together to drive forward our innovative graduate program in chemical engineering.

The chemical engineering program is internationally recognized and competitive. Recognized among the Top 50 Chemical Engineering Programs by U.S. News & World Report, our students and faculty tackle real-world problems using multidisciplinary solutions to advance understanding and build a better tomorrow.

Graduate research opportunities in the chemical engineering program all look to transform matter and energy into useful technologies and products for society while advancing fundamental understanding. Fueling the discovery of innovative scientific advancements and technologies, graduate students in the Chemical Engineering Graduate Program will find a sense of purpose in their studies.

Here are a few areas of graduate research we offer:

• Environmental Chemistry and Remediation
• Biological and Biomolecular Engineering
• Biomaterials and Therapeutic Technologies
• Catalysis and Reaction Engineering
• Inorganic Materials and Polymer Engineering
• Particle Science and Processing

Degrees offered

Chemical engineering, ms.

The Master of Science (MS) program is designed to bridge the gap between knowledge of engineering sciences and creative engineering practice while at the same time increasing the depth and breadth of knowledge in selected areas of emphasis.

Chemical engineering, PhD

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in chemical engineering requires completion of 84 credit hours. These hours include core/elective course work, research/dissertation and seminar credits.

Graduate resources

• Course Descriptions
• Accelerated Master’s programs
• Class Search/Course Catalog
• Graduate College FAQs
• Online Advising Appointments
• Graduate Forms
• Fellowships and Funding
• International Applicants
• All Graduate Programs

Program information

• Graduate Faculty
• Internships
• Research Areas

Application and admission information

Application information.

The following application materials must be submitted directly to Graduate Admission Services:

If your institution sends electronic official transcripts, we accept the following electronic transcript services: E-Scrip, Parchment, Credentials Inc., and National Student Clearinghouse. All E-Scrip, Parchment, and National Student Clearinghouse transcripts must be sent directly to  [email protected]  from those transcript services or from the institutions that use those services. If you can and choose to use these services, you should apply online to the ASU Graduate Admission Services application prior to having your official e-transcripts sent.

If your institution does not use one of those transcript services, you will need to mail an official transcript. Your six digit application ID should be on the transcript envelope if possible.

Graduate Admission Services Tel: 480-965-6113 Web:  students.asu.edu/graduate

Application for admission

Can only be accessed online. Click here to go to Application for Admission

Application priority   deadline

Fall Semester: December 31 Spring Semester: August 1

A priority deadline means that applications submitted and completed before the priority deadline will receive priority consideration. Applications submitted after the priority deadlines will be reviewed in the order in which they were completed. An application is complete after all materials are received by Graduate Admissions.

Application fee

US citizens $70

Non-US citizens $115

This is a processing fee assessed by Graduate Admission Services and cannot be waived or deferred: graduate.asu.edu/admissions/how_to_apply

Transcripts and GRE scores

Transcripts.

Only official transcripts are accepted; no photocopies. These must be mailed to Graduate Admissions Services (see address above). For international students, transcripts must be in the original language, along with an official English translation. Also see:

Graduate Admissions Services:  students.asu.edu/graduate/apply

Resume, personal statement and letters of recommendation

List publications if you have any. It’s not necessary to send copies of articles. You will be asked to upload your resume in the online application process.

Personal statement

Essay describing your background, academic achievements, research interests, career goals, and why you wish to pursue graduate study in Chemical Engineering at ASU. You will be asked to upload your personal statement in the online application process.

Three (3) recommendation letters

The online application will ask you for three names and three email addresses for three recommenders; and the company/school for which they work. Your recommenders will receive an email and must submit their letter of recommendation electronically.

International applicants

Additional admission requirements for international applicants.

Admissions:  students.asu.edu/graduate/international

Visa/Immigration information 

students.asu.edu/international/immigration

English proficiency (for international graduate applicants)

A TOEFL, IELTS or PTE score is required by the graduate Chemical Engineering program, in order to be considered for admission.

• Official TOEFL sent by ETS only. Minimum scores: iBT 100; pBT 600. Institution code for ASU: 4007; for department code, applicant may enter 0000
• Official IELTS sent by issuing institution only. Minimum score: 7. No institution code is needed
• Official PTE sent by Pearson only. Minimum Score: 65
• Official TOEFL sent by ETS only. Minimum scores: iBT 90; pBT 575. Institution code for ASU: 4007; for department code, applicant may enter 0000
• Official IELTS sent by issuing institution only. Minimum score: 6.5. No institution code is needed
• Official PTE sent by Pearson only. Minimum Score: 60

You could qualify for an exemption from this requirement by one of the following two options:

• This requirement would be met if you successfully complete the highest level at the Global Launch Intensive English Program with grades of B or better; AND in addition, acquire a score of 50 or better on the Speak Test (must be taken at Arizona State University).
• You successfully complete the highest level at the Global Launch Intensive English Program with grades of B or better  OR
• Attended in person a regionally accredited college or university in the United States and earned a bachelor’s degree or higher in the U.S.,  OR
• Attended in person a regionally accredited college or university in the United States and completed at least 12 credit hours of graduate course work with a cumulative GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale or higher (all credits must be earned in the U.S.),  OR
• Attended in person a regionally accredited college or university in the United States and completed at least 90 credit hours of undergraduate course work with a cumulative GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale or higher (all 90 hours must be earned in the U.S.)

For  more information, visit the Graduate Admission Services English Proficiency Requirement and Exemption website .

Still have a question? Contact Advising

If you still have questions regarding admission requirements and procedures, please contact the SEMTE graduate advising office:

Phone: 480.965.2335

Email: [email protected]

• University of Wisconsin-Madison

DEGREE Chemical Engineering, PhD

Doctoral degree in chemical engineering

As a PhD student in our outstanding, collaborative department, you’ll engage in original problem-solving. You’ll be able to specialize in either traditional or emerging areas of research in chemical and biological engineering, including energy-related science and technology, soft and hard materials science and engineering, systems engineering and optimization, catalysis, process control and design, nanotechnology, biotechnology, biomedical engineering, complex fluids, colloid and interfacial phenomena, atomic, molecular, and multiscale modeling, polymers (synthesis and processing), micro- and nano-electronics, environmental engineering and sustainability, reactor design, and atomic-scale design of surface reactivity.

At a glance

Chemical and biological engineering department, learn more about what information you need to apply., how to apply.

Please consult the table below for key information about this degree program’s admissions requirements. The program may have more detailed admissions requirements, which can be found below the table or on the program’s website.

Graduate admissions is a two-step process between academic programs and the Graduate School. Applicants must meet the minimum requirements of the Graduate School as well as the program(s). Once you have researched the graduate program(s) you are interested in, apply online .

Applicants with a strong background in chemical engineering or related disciplines and a serious interest in research are encouraged to apply for admission. Applications are accepted for both Fall (September) and Spring (January) admission, although historically most students start in the Fall and admission is seldom offered for the Spring semester. The Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering does not consider applications for a terminal MS degree; the department admits only to the PhD. An MS degree can be awarded post admission as an alternative to the PhD degree. The MS degree is not a prerequisite for the PhD degree.

Applications for Fall admission  must  be received by noon (CST) on the deadline . Admissions decisions are made by a committee of faculty with research expertise spanning the four research areas of the department. Individual faculty do not recommend admissions decisions and advisors are not determined at the time of application. Instead, students will match with advisors after meeting with all faculty during the fall semester. Additional information about the application process, detailed information on required application materials, advice for preparing a competitive application, information on application fee waivers, and frequently asked questions are available here .

Tuition and funding

Tuition and segregated fee rates are always listed per semester (not for Fall and Spring combined).

View tuition rates

Students admitted to the graduate program are guaranteed financial support from the department in the form of research assistantships, teaching assistantships and fellowships. Support will continue as long as the student maintains satisfactory progress toward their degree. 

Additional information on funding and financial resources is  available here .

Graduate School Resources

Resources to help you afford graduate study might include assistantships, fellowships, traineeships, and financial aid.  Further funding information is available from the Graduate School. Be sure to check with your program for individual policies and restrictions related to funding.

Research in CBE is highly collaborative and often involves diverse teams from within the department, across campus, at other campuses, and in industry. CBE researchers address the most pressing challenges facing society by developing approaches to sustainably produce new fuels and chemicals, combat the plastic pollution crisis, create new therapeutic molecules and materials, optimize energy infrastructure, computationally design new materials and chemical processes, understand transport in complex environments, engineer bacteria to produce biofuels, and more.

View our research

Curricular Requirements

Minimum graduate school requirements.

Review the Graduate School minimum  academic progress and degree requirements , in addition to the program requirements listed below.

Required Courses

• Grades of B or better are required in all Chemical and Biological Engineering courses used towards degree requirements.
• Chemical and Biological Engineering Elective courses shall be in the range numbered 500-899 and will not be laboratory courses, Independent Studies or Research.
• The requirement of four core Chemical and Biological Engineering graduate courses shall not be met by substitution of other courses. 

Students taking advanced courses outside the department in excess of breadth requirements may, with department approval, use up to two of these courses toward the requirement of two Chemical and Biological Engineering Elective courses. Seminar courses may not be used to satisfy Chemical and Biological Engineering Elective course requirements.

PhD Elective Course Requirement

Students must complete at least one course from another program outside Chemical and Biological Engineering totaling at least three credits. Courses must be numbered 300 and above. A B average is required. Pass/fail or audit courses may not be used for the elective course requirement. Courses used to satisfy the breadth program may not be used for the PhD Elective course requirement. Advisor approval is required and secured through submission of the PhD Elective Course Approval Form. PhD Elective courses can be foreign language courses.

Breadth Requirement

The breadth requirement is designed to represent a coherent body of work and should not be simply an after-the-fact ratification of a number of courses taken outside the major department. To ensure coherence, the student must consult with his or her advisor. The minor/certificate should be submitted for approval at an early date, before the student is halfway through the proposed course sequence.

Teaching Assistantship

Each student in the PhD program is required to serve as a teaching assistant (TA) for two semesters. Under normal circumstances, each student should serve as a teaching assistant one semester of the second year and one semester of the third year. Requests for alternate arrangements, partial or full waiver of the requirement, should be submitted in writing to the Graduate Program Committee.

Kate Fanis, Graduate Advisor [email protected]

Sean Palecek, Director of Graduate Studies [email protected]

How to Apply to the PhD Program

If you are a student with a strong background in chemical engineering or a related discipline, and a serious interest in research, apply to our graduate program.

Why Wisconsin?

November 8, 2023

PhD Program Information and Milestones

PhD Funding and Financial Information

Become a badger engineer.

The PhD program in chemical engineering offers students the opportunity to work on cutting-edge research that tackles pressing challenges facing our society and our planet in areas such as biomedicine, energy, security and sustainability.

In The News

PhD Student Research on Neural Regeneration and Tissue Engineering

How Brain Controls the Heart

Surgical Glue that Seals wounds in Seconds

Students pursuing graduate-level coursework develop an in-depth understanding of the fundamental principles of chemical engineering and gain expertise in modern topics in the field through select elective courses. The overarching goal of this rich research and educational experience is to mentor and to equip our students to become future leaders in engineering and science, while simultaneously promoting scholarly achievement for both the faculty and students.

Doctoral candidates select thesis topics from a diverse range of faculty research interests. The department’s research focus areas are Biomolecular and Biomedical Systems; Complex and Computational Systems; Energy and Sustainability; Engineering Education and Pedagogy; and Materials and Nanotechnology.

With a premier location in downtown Boston, research in the department leverages the wealth of collaborations with neighboring universities, hospitals, medical centers and industry. New or prospective graduate students can learn about ongoing research topics from individual faculty members, faculty web sites and graduate student seminars. Graduate student seminars, where our students present the results of their research, are held on a regular basis and provide an interactive forum for learning and exchanging ideas.

• MS students can pursue a Gordon Engineering Leadership Certificate
• Department research interests include Biomolecular and Biomedical Systems; Complex and Computational Systems; Energy and Sustainability; Engineering Education and Pedagogy; and Materials and Nanotechnology. Graduate students are able to select thesis topics from a diverse range of faculty research interests.

Our graduates pursue careers within academia and beyond.

• Millipore Sigma
• Northrop Grumman
• Takeda Pharmaceuticals

Application Materials

• Completed online application form
• $100 application fee
• Two letters of recommendation
• Transcripts from all institutions attended
• Statement of Purpose
• TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo for international applicants

Application

PhD Priority: December 15

International outside US: June 1

International inside US: July 1

Domestic: August 1

• Program Website

Request Information for PhD in Chemical Engineering

College of Engineering

Chemical Engineering (Ph.D.)

Chemical Engineering

Doctor of philosophy, chemical engineering and materials science, program details.

The degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Chemical Engineering combines a wide range of course offerings and research activities, to allow a tailored program to fit the background, capabilities, and aims of each student. Coursework is designed to expand the student's knowledge of engineering principles and applications. Each student also conducts an extensive research project that significantly advances fundamental understanding of a chemical engineering system. Research results are documented in a dissertation, and in peer-reviewed journal publications.

In addition to Chemical Engineering graduates, the doctoral program welcomes students who have completed a B.S. degree in chemistry, biochemistry, mathematics, physics, or other STEM disciplines. "Foundations in Chemical Engineering", a program of accelerated, online courses are provided to prepare non-chemical engineering students for graduate study in Chemical Engineering. These courses can be taken prior to formally entering the doctoral program. Please see the link below for more information.

• Program overview (Office of Registrar)
• Course descriptions (Office of Registrar)
• Foundations in Chemical Engineering

Current MSU students

Future students

Michigan State University uses a decentralized admissions process for graduate studies. Visit the College of Engineering graduate admissions page for details on the overall process.

The Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science graduate admissions process is as follows:

1. Fill out a complete  MSU Graduate School Application . Use the on-line forms, or contact  [email protected]  to check on the availability of a paper application. Note the following degree codes:

• Chemical Engineering M.S. = 2303
• Chemical Engineering Ph.D. = 2304
• Materials Science and Engineering M.S. = 8001
• Materials Science and Engineering Ph.D. = 8002

Please Note: Applications completed prior to January 15 will receive full consideration. Your application cannot be marked complete until your application fee has been paid.

2. Completing the MSU application online will give you access to the  Student portal.   You will be able to:

• Upload Resume/CV
• Upload personal and academic statements
• Manage Letter of Recommendations (see guidelines below)
• Upload any other pertinent information for your application
• For MS students only:  Affidavit of Support  and bank statements
• Send Messages to Graduate Secretary and Graduate Director

3. The following items must be submitted in an official capacity:

• Copy of your official transcripts (undergraduate and graduate). Note: for paper copies, please have official correspondence sent to department. Please contact the Graduate Secretary if you wish to have electronic copies sent, as they must meet certain criteria.
• GRE Scores are currently not required.
• Official TOEFL or IELTS scores (international applicants only). ( See Guidelines ).

Official test scores (GRE and TOEFL) must be submitted to the University via the Educational Testing Service ( ETS ). Unofficial photocopies of score sheets are useful for review purposes, but we cannot admit applicants without a complete application, which requires official scores.

4. Arrange for three recommendations from instructors and/or advisors familiar with your academic record who have agreed to write a letter of recommendation for you. This may be done via the student portal (step 2) or by mail. The student portal allows for the student to add referrers, send reminder emails and waive their right to view letters.

For mail submissions, please use our  CHEMS Recommendation Form (Word document, .doc)  (rather than the form provided by the graduate school.) Fill out and sign the top portion of each form. Ask the recommender to complete the form, attach a letter if they wish, and return it to us at the departmental address given on the bottom of the form.

Address for Mailing ALL Printed Application Materials:

Graduate Secretary Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science Michigan State University 428 S. Shaw Ln Rm 2100 Engineering Building East Lansing, MI 48824-1226

Phone: (517) 355-5135 FAX: (517) 432-1105 [email protected]

Applications will only be reviewed when complete and official. Please utilize the  student portal  for up-to-date information about your application status.

• Visit college
• View Chemical Engineering and Materials Science
• Degrees and programs
• All academic departments
• Find faculty
• Request info

Explore more majors and programs

Chemical Engineering

Why study chemical engineering.

The Chemical Engineering program offers an average of 35 graduate courses a year in the four research areas of Biomolecular Engineering, Nanotechnology, Energy and Environment, and Separations. The courses include, but are not limited to Air Pollution Engineering, Biotransformations and Biocatalysis, Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering Design and Green Engineering, Computational Chemistry and Molecular Modeling, Fuel Cells, Membrane Processes, Molecular Engineering and Functional Nanomaterials, Polymer Systems, Process Dynamics, Control and Optimization, Reaction Engineering and Catalysis for Energy and Fuels, Separation Processes, Tissue Engineering, and Transport Phenomena.

Admission Requirements

• GRE - Required of all international students; GRE is exempt for students that earned a degree from an ABET accredited university (or equivalent accreditation) in the USA with a GPA of 3.0+
• Transcript(s) and Degree Certificates (unofficial transcripts are used for admissions review, only admitted applicants submit official transcripts)
• GPA minimum 3.0 or equivalent
• Statement of Purpose
• Two letters of recommendation
• International students - English Proficiency Test: TOEFL (minimum 92) or IELTS (minimum 6.5)
• Guide: Chemical Engineering Ph.D.

Application Deadlines

Early Admission

General Admission

Application deadlines and additional application information can be found at the CEAS Office of Graduate Studies .

Contact Information

Find related programs in the following interest areas:.

• Engineering

Program Code: 20DOC-CHE-PHD

Chemical Engineering

The Chemical Engineering doctoral program trains students to apply the principles of chemistry, biology, physics, and math to solve problems that involve the production or use of chemicals, fuel, drugs, food, and many other products.

Program Highlights

The research areas underlying the Chemical Engineering doctoral program fall into three broad categories:

• Materials for Energy and Sustainability
• Cell and Biomolecular Engineering
• Systems and Process Modeling

Graduate students will gain advanced study in mathematical methods in chemical engineering, chemical and catalytic reaction engineering, thermodynamics and transport phenomena.

Career Outcomes

Chemical engineers often focus on energy production, catalysis, metabolic and cell engineering, nanomaterials and biomaterials, and systems engineering. They design processes and equipment for large-scale manufacturing, plan and test production methods and byproducts treatment, and direct facility operations.

The program builds on the foundation of an undergraduate engineering education and prepares students for careers as world-class researchers through the completion of advanced coursework, thesis research, and professional service (e.g., teaching assistance).

Application Requirements

Applicants to the PhD in Chemical Engineering program are generally expected to have earned a prior degree in Chemical Engineering. Applicants with degrees in closely related engineering disciplines (such as Materials Science and Engineering or Polymer Engineering) who already have a working knowledge of the core course content of this program (i.e., partial differential equations describing heat, mass, and momentum transfer processes, chemical kinetics/reactors and catalysis, chemical thermodynamics) are also encouraged to apply.

Please note that applicants with degrees in Chemistry or Biochemistry are expected to have already completed coursework in ordinary/partial differential equations (at a minimum), and ideally heat/mass/momentum transport, as well. These courses should be clearly shown on the transcript(s) and must also be described in the applicant's personal statement.

• Application Fee
• Personal Statement
• Transcripts
• Three letters of recommendation
• Official TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo test scores (if applicable)
• GRE General Test scores are not required
• Portfolio (optional)

Tuition and Financial Aid

We recognize that attending graduate school involves a significant financial investment. Our team is here to answer your questions about  tuition rates  and  scholarship opportunities .

Please contact us at  [email protected] .

Emmanuel (Manolis) Tzanakakis

Research/Areas of Interest: stem cell and tissue engineering, optogenetics, diabetes

Ayse Asatekin

Research/Areas of Interest: membranes, polymer science, material science, separations, surface chemistry

Prashant Deshlahra

Research/Areas of Interest: heterogeneous catalysis, sustainable production of chemicals and fuels, DFT calculations

Nathaniel Eagan

Research/Areas of Interest: Sustainability, experimental heterogeneous catalysis, clean energy, fuels and chemicals, biomass

Milo Koretsky

Research/Areas of Interest: engineering education research, learning and engagement in the university classroom, development of disciplinary practices, instructional design and technology development, instructional practices, organizational change, social practice theory

Kyongbum Lee

Research/Areas of Interest: metabolic engineering, tissue engineering, systems biology

Graham Leverick

Research/Areas of Interest: electrochemical energy storage and conversion, batteries, electrolytes

Research/Areas of Interest: thermal barrier coating (TBC), solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) ceramics, carbon dioxide acceptors

Research/Areas of Interest: synthetic biology, systems bioengineering, protein engineering, metabolic engineering, biofuels, biocatalysis

Matthew Panzer

Research/Areas of Interest: Ionic liquids, ionogels, eutectogels, polymers, ion transport, electrochemical energy storage

Daniel Ryder

Research/Areas of Interest: process control

James Van Deventer

Research/Areas of Interest: Synthetic Biology, Chemical Biology, Protein Engineering, Antibody Engineering, Drug Discovery, Genetic Code Expansion, Noncanonical Amino Acids, Tumor Microenvironment.

Research/Areas of Interest: nanobiofabrication, smart biopolymers, BioMEMS, material science

Related Programs

Bioengineering, biotechnology engineering.

Doctoral Program in Chemical Engineering

PhD Application Deadline DECEMBER 15 View Application Steps

How to Apply

Funding & resources, usc graduate application, dissertation topics, phd alumni snapshot, research topics database.

Kylie Trettner

View more Doctoral Student & Alumni Profiles

Jose Cobena-Reyes

View more Doctoral Student& Alumni Profiles

Chemical Engineering Doctoral Students Citizenship

Chemical engineering doctoral students age, recent department videos.

Published on June 8th, 2021

Last updated on August 18th, 2023

• Master’s Programs
• Programs for Non-Engineering Majors
• Application Information & Steps
• Tuition & Funding
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Academic Disciplines
• Faculty/ Research Topic Search
• Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q.)
• Executive Education
• All Degree Options
• The DEN@Viterbi Experience
• Getting Started
• Online DEN@Viterbi Offerings
• Rankings and Awards
• Next Steps for Newly Admitted Master’s Students
• Next Steps for Newly Admitted Doctoral Students
• Alternatives to Visiting Campus
• Become a Partner
• Certificate Options
• U.S. Active Duty Military & Veterans
• The Boeing Company
• General Motors – Technical Education Program
• Kuwait Oil Company
• Raytheon Technologies
• Saudi Aramco

Kylie Trettner PhD in Chemical Engineering

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

The best piece of advice I've ever been given is to always carry around a notebook. Though I suppose the true advice is what that implies:  to write everything down . Writing out my thoughts and reasons why I want to try things (in terms of research) has been so helpful! Not only do I have a handful of notebooks (I'm really organized so each one serves a different purpose) but I've also found that typing up notes to myself when I need to get an idea out quickly is so helpful as well.

What do you consider your greatest accomplishment?

Since I'm still working toward earning my PhD, I'd have to say my greatest accomplishment was running TSP DIY last year (TPS = The Speed Project). It's normally a relay-style race from the Santa Monica Pier to the "Welcome to Las Vegas" sign, but because of COVID we did it around Santa Monica and Beverley Hills. I ran 31 miles at 6:27 average mile pace over the course of the 31-hour 45-minute race with 8 other women. It was incredible and I can't wait to run the real TSP relay next year!

What's your favorite impulse purchase from the past 12 months?

I don't impulse buy! I have to stick to my budget and I usually plan out my bigger purchases a few months in advance to spread them out. Once in a while I'll be tempted by the Madewell sales or buying a few more books than the one that I'm looking for, but if I can't fit it in my budget I don't buy it.

Please describe a little about your research and what excites you about it.

My research is a very interesting mix of materials science, electrical engineering, microscopy, and cancer biology! I'm currently working on creating both a magnetic hydrogel system and electromagnetic microscope mount to be able to use and applied magnetic field to change the mechanical properties of the hydrogel. I'm using this as a tumor microenvironment model to study howincreased material stiffness (modulus) changes the biological properties of cancer organoids grown in the hydrogel matrix. Eventually, I'll use this to study the cellular secretion profile and pair the system with a mechanotransductor to get both biological-only and material/organoid interface read-outs. I'm excited to work on engineering solutions to study biological effects and I've found myself working in the biophysics field - an industry I never knew existed until I began designing my project - and it truly forces us to push the boundaries between engineering, physical sciences, and biology to unlock the fundamental properties of fibrotic diseases.

If you could choose any other profession outside of engineering or computer science, what would it be? 

I would hands down be a professional athlete. I was a student-athlete in undergrad and I'm really involved in the running community here in Los Angeles and if I was ever given the opportunity, I would jump into full-time training.

What are some factors that helped you decide to pursue your PhD at USC?

Beyond USC's location, I saw within USC the opportunity to truly forge my own path. Part of this is because I recognized my PI's encouragement for collaborations (both within and outside of USC) and actively pursued an institution that would support me but also give me the freedom to create at the same time as investigating biologically-inspired questions.

If you were to recommend to an incoming student 3 places to go in California/Los Angeles, what would they be?

There's too much to pick for all of California, so I'll limit it to a ~4 hour drive from LA. I absolutely love Death Valley National Park! In LA, the Santa Monica Mountains are probably where I spend most of my weekends (cycling through, but hiking and running are incredible there too) and while I'm talking of mountains, the access to various national forests is great here too (Angeles National Forest and San Bernardino and a few of those mountains are often my cycling destinations for Saturdays as well). My third place would be Ginger's Divine Ice Cream on Washington in Culver City; it's probably the best ice cream I've ever had!

What is a memory you'll cherish about your time at USC?

A memory I'll always cherish from USC actually happened during my visit weekend. It rained the whole day we toured campus and spoke with professors. Once I got out of my final meeting (with my current PI) and went to head back to the hotel, a rainbow popped up across campus I ended up walking back through campus under it. I think it was a sign haha!

What's one thing about you that might surprise me?

I was on Good Morning America when I was in middle school on accident. I went to watch the Fray perform, but during the interview with Steve Martin (he was promoting the Pink Panther movie) they decided to ask the crowd to try and repeat things in his character's accent. They came up to me! After I did it, the hostess turned to Steve and said, "I guess the accent isn't so hard!" which I took to mean I did pretty well.

What are your plans after graduation?

I'm really not sure what I want to do after graduation! I have a couple more years and right now I'm not sure if I want to continue my career doing benchwork or transition to a more consulting-type position. I love problem solving and building but I also really love science communication and public speaking, so I know I'll have to find the right position that will give me a good balance of both.

Hometown (city, country):

Wading River, NY, USA

Personal Website (if any):

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ kylietrettner

Faculty Advisor:

Prof. Andrea Armani

Jose Cobena-Reyes PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tell us a little bit about yourself I am originally from Guayaquil, Ecuador. My bachelor’s degree is in chemical engineering, and  after graduating, I worked for a few years as a Production Supervisor at a company called Holcim in Ecuador. I have always wanted to study abroad, so I took my chance and I came to USC.

What attracted you to choose USC for your graduate studies? It’s a world class university and the research I’m doing here is related to my interests, which is a mixture of chemical engineering and computational research.

Tell us about your interests outside the classroom.

Currently, I serve as the Graduate Student Representative for the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) Chapter at USC. I plan activities tailored to our Hispanic graduate students. Our most popular event is Painting Night! We gather together to paint on small canvases, it is very relaxing.

Last year, I served as part of the Center of Engineering Diversity Advisory Board at USC. We held meetings were we gave feedback and shared our concerns about the needs of our communities. During my free time, I play the guitar. I also love watching soccer and movies.

How has SHPE helped you grow? In so many ways. Professionally, thanks to SHPE I have learned networking techniques, how to follow up after meeting someone either by email or by Linkedin, how to approach people in networking events; in general some social conventions that we should apply when we attempt to grow our network. Socially, there are always opportunities to connect with other Hispanic graduate students during the SHPE events. That helped to make more friends!

Tell us about some exciting and unforgettable incidents from your two years at USC.

Related to my research, the publication of my first paper was incredibly important to me. I worked for a year and a half on it before I was able to finally publish it. I would also say that my networking skills have strengthened thanks to many workshops I have attended. I’ve been able to expand my network considerably and meet many new people.

Is there something that may surprise people about you? I also have a master’s in business administration!

Overall, how has the PhD journey been at USC? I would say that it has been probably one of the most fruitful experiences in my life. I have grown a lot, both personally and professionally. Studying abroad in Los Angeles and at USC has been a great time learning about other cultures and about myself and  learning how to conduct world class research.

What are your future plans after completing your Phd? My aim is to do research either in the semiconductor or chemical industries.

What innovations/discoveries do you hope to see (or be a part of!) in the next ten years? The computational techniques that I use are currently moving towards a combination that involves machine learning to either predict material properties or to accelerate molecular simulation. I think exciting times about this are coming.

PhD Program Information - Davidson School of Chemical Engineering - Purdue University

Doctor of Philosophy Program

The Ph.D. program is designed to prepare each student to take an active part in the development and growth of the field of chemical engineering at all levels in academia, industry, and various research organizations. All admitted graduate students must demonstrate competence in graduate course work and demonstrate the capability to do independent research. Each student selects a major professor and an advisory committee to assist him/her in planning a program of course work and thesis research. The student takes thirty credits of graduate course work (usually 10 three-credit classes), and writes a thesis. The thesis research should be original work that contributes significantly to new knowledge.

In the beginning of the second year of the program, all students go through the Ph.D. Qualifying Procedure.  They must pass the Qualifying Procedure (Qual) in order to proceed directly to the Ph.D. program.

Beginning with the third semester, each student, as part of the degree requirement, occasionally assists in the instructional activities of the department as a Teaching Fellow (TF). The current periodicity is one semester every other year. Students usually teach in their third and sixth semesters. Advanced students may have the opportunity to participate directly in the planning and presentation of undergraduate courses that are related to their thesis work.

By the eighth week of the sixth semester, students must take their Preliminary Examination (Prelim). During the Prelim, the student presents a plan for his/her research, and the student demonstrates proficiency in the theory and experimental methods needed for completion of the research. Once a student passes the Prelim, he/she is admitted into candidacy. After the student completes the research and writes the thesis, he/she will take the Final Examination, which is a defense of the written thesis.

Bev Johnson Graduate Program Administrator FRNY 2043A (765) 494-4057 [email protected]

• Request Info
• Check Status

Chemical Engineering PhD Program

Doctoral Program

UTSA’s PhD in Chemical Engineering is designed to prepare graduates to solve current engineering grand challenges and become leaders in chemical engineering industries.

Start Your Bold Future

By submitting this form, I agree that UTSA may contact me by email, voice, pre-recorded message and/or text message using automated technology.

Please enable javascript in your browser

Why Pursue a PhD in Chemical Engineering

UTSA offers state-of-the-art facilities and excellent program faculty, giving students the opportunity to pursue high-level multidisciplinary research projects in the broad fields of health, energy, materials, and the environment.

Graduates of this research-intensive program apply their cutting-edge research to solve problems across traditional scientific boundaries and lead careers in industry, academia, or governmental research laboratories.

Flexible Degree Plan

This degree offers a flexibility not typically found in similar programs to adapt to individualized student interests. Additional courses in leadership and engineering education are offered to complement a variety of future career goals.

Additionally, students in this program are highly encouraged to pursue a semester-long internship in a non-academic setting such as industry, private research institutes, or national laboratories.

Chemical Engineering Research Areas

Chemical Engineering faculty at UTSA are interested in solving grand challenges of energy production, from traditional such as fossil-fuel sources and natural gas, to alternative fuels and battery development.

Click to learn more about UTSA faculty performing Energy research:

• Gary Jacobs, PhD
• Additional Profile
• Esteban Urena-Benavides, PhD

Environmental

Chemical Engineering faculty at UTSA conduct environmental research in the areas of water purification technologies, electrochemistry processes, bioremediation, carbon sequestration, oil recovery and renewable energy.

Click to learn more about UTSA faculty performing Environmental research:

• Nehal Abu-Lail, PhD
• Camilah Powell, PhD
• Gongchen Sun, PhD

Chemical Engineering faculty at UTSA are interested in investigating materials for applications in catalysis, computing and simulation, electrochemistry, batteries, nanotechnology, and microfabrication.

Click to learn more about UTSA faculty performing Materials research:

• Maria Gonzalez Porras, PhD
• Teja Guda, PhD
• Abelardo Ramirez-Hernandez, PhD

Bioengineering

Chemical Engineering faculty at UTSA perform bioengineering research for applications in drug delivery, tissue engineering, neuroengineering, sensing, microfluidics and artificial intelligence.

Click to learn more about UTSA faculty performing Bioengineering research:

• Eric Brey, PhD
• Amina Qutub, PhD

Chemical Engineering Education

Chemical Engineering faculty at UTSA are also interested in investigating innovative and inclusive methods for teaching and learning chemical engineering.

Click to learn more about UTSA faculty performing Chemical Engineering Education research:

• Admission Requirements

Application Deadlines

Funding opportunities, career options, admission & application requirements.

Applications are submitted through the UTSA Graduate Application . Please upload all required documents (listed below) on your UTSA Graduate Application. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure completion and submission of the application, a nonrefundable application fee, and all required supporting documents are on file with UTSA by the appropriate application deadline.

Applicants are encouraged to have their admission file completed as early as possible. All applications, required documents and letters of recommendation, if applicable, must be submitted by 5:00 PM U.S. Central Time on the day of the deadline. Deadlines are subject to change.

PhD students may qualify for research or teaching positions, for which the Klesse College offers funding related to tuition, medical insurance, and an annual stipend of $26,000.

UTSA prepares you for future careers that are in demand. The possible careers below is data pulled by a third-party tool called Emsi, which pulls information from sources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Census Bureau, online job postings, other government databases and more to give you regional and national career outlook related to this academic program.

Course Offerings & Schedule

This is a research-intensive program. All courses are offered during the day at UTSA main campus. Most courses are offered through face-to-face instruction, but some online course options may be available.

Graduate Advisor of Record

Gabriela Romero Uribe, PhD

210-458-7982

Your browser is unsupported

We recommend using the latest version of IE11, Edge, Chrome, Firefox or Safari.

Chemical Engineering

College of engineering, phd program.

The PhD in Chemical Engineering at UIC develops students into researchers in their own right. Doctoral students work alongside faculty mentors to conduct investigations in their labs , and they also may have the opportunity to develop classroom skills as teaching assistants. Our doctoral programs produce top-tier candidates for high-level industry jobs, postdoctoral research positions, and tenure-track faculty roles at universities around the world.

PhD coursework covers core subjects in chemical engineering such as continuum and molecular fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, macroscopic and microscopic thermodynamics, chemical kinetics, and process analysis. Dissertation research projects are devised collaboratively between students and their faculty advisors. To get a sense of recent dissertations produced in our department, visit our dissertations page.

Program Overview Heading link Copy link

The PhD requires 108 semester hours, beginning with coursework and culminating in the research, writing, and defense of an original dissertation. We welcome applicants who are completing (or who have already completed) a master’s degree in chemical engineering or a related discipline, as well as applicants with only an undergraduate degree.

Students admitted with a prior master’s degree in their field of study  receive up to 32 semester hours of credit for their prior academic work, while students who are  directly admitted after their bachelor’s degree  will need to complete all 108 semester hours of PhD credit during their time in our program.

At UIC, I feel that the faculty, as well as the other supporting offices, genuinely want you to succeed. Also, all kinds of academic and financial support are available if you are willing to look for them. Sungjoon Kim  |  PhD anticipated '22

PhD Degree Requirements Heading link Copy link

Requirements.

Courses:  6 courses (24 semester hours)

• If a student has not completed one or more of the following courses in prior master’s study, these must be taken: CHE 520 Transport Phenomena; CHE 531 Numerical Methods in Chemical Engineering or CHE 545 Mathematical Methods in Chemical Engineering; CHE 501 Advanced Thermodynamics or CHE 502 Fluid Phase Equilibria; CHE 510 Separation Processes or CHE 511 Advanced Mass Transfer or CHE 512 Microhydrodynamics, Diffusion, and Membrane Transport; CHE 527 Advanced Chemical Reaction Engineering.
• At least 24 semester hours must be taken (or awarded credit from the prior degree) at the 500 level.
• At least 8 semester hours of advanced math must be part of the 24 semester hours at the 500 level, including at least one 500-level course from UIC’s Department of Mathematics, Statistics, and Computer Science.

Departmental seminar:  Students must enroll in CHE 595 Seminar in Chemical Engineering Research for one semester hour each term, to a maximum of 4 hours.

Dissertation research:  52 semester hours of CHE 599 PhD Thesis Research.

Required core courses: 6 courses (24 semester hours)

• CHE 501 Advanced Thermodynamics or CHE 502 Fluid Phase Equilibria
• CHE 510 Separation Processes or CHE 511 Advanced Mass Transfer or CHE 512 Microhydrodynamics, Diffusion, and Membrane Transport
• CHE 520 Transport Phenomena
• CHE 527 Advanced Chemical Reaction Engineering
• CHE 531 Numerical Methods in Chemical Engineering
• CHE 545 Mathematical Methods in Chemical Engineering

Electives: 6 courses (24 semester hours) at the 400-level or above.

Departmental seminar: Students must enroll in CHE 595 Seminar in Chemical Engineering Research for one semester hour each term, to a maximum of 4 hours.

Dissertation research:  60 semester hours of CHE 599 PhD Thesis Research.

Preliminary Examination Heading link Copy link

PhD students must pass a preliminary examination before they begin the final phase of their doctoral study. The preliminary examination includes both a written component and an oral examination.

There is no qualifying examination.

Dissertation Process Heading link Copy link

Upon completion of all degree requirements and the dissertation, students must orally defend their work before their committee.

Additional Resources for PhD Students in ChE Heading link Copy link

• Course descriptions
• Degree requirements
• Graduate courses page
• Graduate student resources page

Learn about PhD program admissions

Evan R. Williams

Lab: DG-21 Giauque Hall

• B.S., University of Virginia (1984)
• Ph.D., Cornell University (1990)
• National Science Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship, (1989-1991)
• National Science Foundation Young Investigator Award (1992)
• Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation Young Investigator (1992)
• Analytical Chemists of Pittsburgh Award (1992)
• Exxon Education Foundation Research Award (1993)
• American Society for Mass Spectrometry Research Award (1994)
• Alexander von Humboldt Senior Scientist Award (1999)
• Amgen Faculty Award (2004)
• Visiting Professor, Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Aarhus, Denmark (2005)
• Faculty Scientist, Earth Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
• Faculty Director, QB3/Chemistry Mass Spectrometry Center, UC Berkeley
• Associate Director, Center for Analytical Biotechnology, UC Berkeley
• Member: ACS, ASMS

Professor Williams' research group is developing and applying novel instrumental and computational techniques in mass spectrometry, tandem mass spectrometry, separations, and laser spectroscopy to solve problems of fundamental interest in chemistry and biochemistry. Current projects are focused in three areas; 1) elucidating the structures, functions, and dynamics of biomolecules and their macromolecular complexes with emphasis on protein sequencing, conformational elucidation, and protein-protein interactions, 2) understanding ion solvation, how water organizes around different ions and how water affects molecular structure and intermolecular interactions. Competitive interactions between ions, water, and biomolecules of interest are investigated by probing ions in size-selected trapped nanodrops using spectroscopy and ion-electron recombination experiments and 3) developing new instrumentation to analyze complex mixtures, including contents of cells, using microfabricated devices coupled with mass spectrometry and developing probes for rapid chemical analysis of surfaces with high sensitivity. A number of different types of state-of-the-art mass spectrometers and lasers are used in these studies.

Professor of Chemistry

email:   office:   phone:  

Research Group URL Recent Publications

Research Interests

Javascript must be enabled for the correct page display.

• Find a Person
• For EMS Faculty & Staff
• Meet the Dean
• Mission, Vision, Values, and Strategic Plan
• Our Leadership
• Graduate Enrollment
• Undergraduate Enrollment
• Degrees Awarded
• Administrative Structure
• Faculty Honors and Awards
• Accreditation
• 125th Anniversary
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
• Entrepreneurship
• Future Energy-Water-Landscape Initiative
• Online Learning
• Sustainability
• Maps and Parking
• Driving Directions
• Building Locator Map
• EMS Museum & Art Gallery
• Bachelor's Programs
• Master's Programs
• Doctoral Programs
• Undergraduate Certificate Programs
• Graduate Certificate Programs
• Online Programs
• John and Willie Leone Family Department of Energy and Mineral Engineering
• Department of Geography
• Department of Geosciences
• Department of Materials Science and Engineering
• Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Science
• John A. Dutton Institute for Teaching and Learning Excellence
• EMS Energy Institute
• Earth and Environmental Systems Institute
• Scientific Diving Program
• Miner Training Program
• Fletcher L. Byrom Earth and Mineral Sciences Library
• Open Educational Resources
• Weather Education and Outreach
• Welcome Message from the Dean
• Top Reasons to Choose EMS
• What Can I Study?
• Meet Our Students
• Where Our Graduates Go
• Attend Prospective Student Events
• For Parents and Families
• Costs, Financial Aid, and Scholarships
• How to Apply
• Orientation / First-year Experience
• Academic Planning, Progress, and Requirements
• International Student Resources
• Academic Advisers
• Academic Integrity: Undergraduates
• Avoiding Academic Integrity Violations
• Undergraduate Mentoring Program
• Clubs and Organizations
• EMS Living Learning Community Options
• Honors, Exhibitions, and Award Competitions
• Internships & Career Resources
• Study Abroad / Study Away
• Undergraduate Research
• Ryan Family Student Center
• Faculty Senate Petition Support
• Diversity Resources for Undergraduates
• Tutoring and Academic Assistance
• Graduation & Commencement
• Library Subject Guides
• Media Commons - One Button Studio
• News for Undergraduates
• Find a Program of Study
• Graduate Student Profiles
• Contact Graduate Staff
• Request Individual Visit
• How to Apply to Graduate School
• Assistantships, Awards, Scholarships, and Fellowships
• Academic Integrity - Graduate Students
• Dates and Deadlines
• Research Exhibitions
• Commencement Information
• Diversity Resources for Graduate Students
• Graduate Organizations
• Graduate Student and Postdoctoral Scholar Ombuds Program
• Graduate Students News & Announcements
• Endowed Faculty Positions
• Faculty Directory
• Meet our Faculty
• Research Facilities
• Research with Impact
• Institutes and Centers
• Research News
• Invent Penn State
• Partner With Us
• Recruit Students
• Sponsorships
• About the Office of the Associate Dean for Graduate Education and Research
• Research Administration
• Research and Travel Grants
• Resources for Postdoctoral Scholars
• Subscribe to e-News
• Social Media
• Featured Events
• Lecture Series
• College Magazine
• EMS Hall of Fame Educators
• Find an Expert
• Communications Contacts
• Mentoring Program
• GEMS Alumni Society
• Affiliate Program Groups
• Give to Kiusalaas Fund
• Meet Our Alumni
• EMS Alumni Awards
• University Alumni Awards
• Attend an Alumni Event
• Alumni News
• Development & Alumni Relations Staff
• GEMS Board of Directors
• Campaign Priorities
• Why Giving Matters
• Where to Give
• Ways to Give
• Why We Give
• Obelisk Society
• Giving News
• Development Council

Penn State professor awarded American Chemical Society grant

Danielle Reifsnyder Hickey, assistant professor of chemistry and of materials science and engineering at Penn State, has been awarded an American Chemical Society (ACS) Petroleum Research Fund (PRF) Doctoral New Investigator Grant.