From its early foundation in petrochemical and bulk chemical processing, chemical engineering has expanded to play key roles in the development and production of pharmaceuticals and bioengineered materials, specialty polymers and high strength composites, semiconductors and microelectronic devices, a wide range of ultrapure fine chemicals, and so forth. Indeed, chemical engineering is essential for the operation of contemporary society. Future opportunities in the field are very bright. The undergraduate program in chemical engineering equips students to contribute to the solution of these and similar problems.
Most graduates find meaningful careers in industry.
Others are attracted to government laboratories, universities, and careers as private consultants. Some continue their education through graduate studies in chemical engineering, business, law, or medicine. Degree Programs . The Chemical Engineering Department offers the Bachelor of Engineering degree and graduate study leading to the M.Eng., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees. Undergraduate chemical engineering students acquire a solid background in mathematics, chemistry, and physics and take additional upper-level courses in chemistry.