Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering

The Bachelor of Science in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at Georgia Institute of Technology offers a comprehensive and rigorous education designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers in the chemical and related industries. This program combines fundamental principles of chemistry, physics, mathematics, and engineering with hands-on laboratory experiences and modern computational techniques to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to innovate and solve complex problems in areas such as energy, pharmaceuticals, materials, environmental protection, and biotechnology.

Students in this program will explore core topics including thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, heat and mass transfer, reactor design, process control, and materials science. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, often involving projects, internships, and research opportunities that foster critical thinking and teamwork. The program also prioritizes safety, sustainability, and ethical considerations in engineering practice, preparing students to contribute responsibly to society and the planet.

Georgia Tech's state-of-the-art laboratories, collaborative learning environment, and industry partnerships provide students with valuable real-world experience. The program encourages innovation through design projects and supports entrepreneurial initiatives, enabling students to translate ideas into practical solutions. Graduates are well-equipped to enter diverse fields such as chemical manufacturing, energy production, biopharmaceuticals, environmental consulting, and academia.

In addition to technical skills, the program emphasizes communication, leadership, and professional development to prepare students for successful careers. Undergraduates can participate in co-op programs, research projects, and student organizations, gaining valuable industry contacts and experience that enhance employability. The Bachelor of Science in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at Georgia Tech is committed to developing versatile engineers who are capable of advancing technology, improving processes, and addressing global challenges through innovation and scientific excellence.

Core Courses

• CHBE 6003 – Chemical Process Safety
• CHBE 6100 – Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics
• CHBE 6200 – Transport Phenomena
• CHBE 6260 – Mass Transport
• CHBE 6300 – Kinetics and Reactor Design
• CHBE 6500 – Mathematical Modeling

Elective Courses

• CHBE XXXX – ChBE Elective

3.2 GPA required for the above core and elective courses.

Minor

• 3 courses from outside ChBE
• 1 can be at 4000-level; the other 2 must be graduate level
• Course of study requires approval before starting
• Must earn a B or better in each class

Other Courses

• CHBE 8001–2 – Graduate Seminars (must attend at least 60% every semester in residence)
• CHBE 8801 – Introduction to Research

Qualifying Exam

Oral Exam

• Review and critique an assigned technical paper
• 15 minute oral presentation to 2 or more faculty members
• Up to 45 minute question and answer session covering the paper and other fundamental aspects of chemical engineering

Core Courses

• Must complete core courses listed above with a GPA of at least 3.2

Research Evaluation

• The research advisor will submit an evaluation of the student’s research progress and potential.

Thesis Proposal and Oral Defense

• 10 to 20 pages in length
• 20 minute defense before Thesis Advisory Committee
• Must be completed no later than the end of the sixth semester at Georgia Tech

Thesis Research

• Must be a significant contribution to the field of chemical & biomolecular engineering
• Must be publishable in a peer-reviewed research journal in the field

Pre-Doctoral Review

• Includes a presentation of an outline for the completed PhD dissertation
• Done at least 6 months before the Thesis Defense

Fall Graduate Colloquium

• Must present seminar to ChBE faculty and students during the fall semester of your fourth year

PhD Dissertation

• Must meet Division of Graduate Studies guidelines

Thesis Defense

• Given before Doctoral Examination Committee, which contains at least 5 facutly members, 3 of whom must be from ChBE and 1 of whom must be from another academic unit at Georgia Tech.

Requirements

• B.S. degree in chemical engineering, bioengineering, paper science & engineering, or a closely related discipline
• Minimum GPA of 3.3/4.0
• GRE test scores and, for international students, TOEFL scores (minimum 85)

Applications for graduate admissions must be submitted through the Georgia Tech Graduate Studies & Admissions Office.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

We provide financial support for all of our PhD students. Every School of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering PhD student making satisfactory progress towards his or her degree receives a competitive stipend and a tuition waiver that drops the cost of tuition to $25 per semester. In return for the stipend, PhD students are expected to serve as teaching assistants for three or four semesters during their time at Georgia Tech, depending upon the needs of the School.

Outstanding students can apply to receive additional funding through the following external sources:

• The National GEM Consortium
• National Science Foundation
• National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate (NDSEG) Fellowship
• Department of Energy Computational Science Graduate Fellowship
• NASA Harriett G. Jenkins Predoctoral Fellowship Project (must be a member of an underrepresented group)
• Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Awards for Individual Predoctoral Fellowships to Promote Diversity in Health-Related Research
• American Association of University Women (must be a woman)
• Ford Foundation Fellowship Programs (for US citizens or nationals committed to teaching and research at the university level)
• The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans
• ASEE SMART Scholarship for Service

The Bachelor of Science in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at Georgia Institute of Technology is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for careers in the fields of chemical engineering, biochemical engineering, and related industries. The curriculum combines rigorous coursework in chemistry, physics, mathematics, and engineering principles to equip students with the foundational knowledge necessary to innovate and solve complex problems in manufacturing, energy, healthcare, and environmental sectors.

Students enrolled in this program have the opportunity to engage in hands-on laboratory experiences, cutting-edge research projects, and industry internships that bridge theoretical concepts with practical applications. The program emphasizes sustainable and environmentally responsible engineering practices, aligning with Georgia Tech’s commitment to addressing global challenges through technological innovation.

The department offers specialized tracks and electives that allow students to focus on areas such as biochemical engineering, materials engineering, process systems engineering, and energy systems. Faculty members are leading experts in their fields, often involved in groundbreaking research that students can participate in through undergraduate research opportunities. The program also supports entrepreneurial initiatives and interdisciplinary collaboration, fostering a culture of innovation and leadership among students.

Graduates of the program are well-prepared for employment in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, energy, food processing, and advanced materials, or for advanced studies including master’s and doctoral programs. Georgia Tech’s strong industry connections and career services also provide valuable resources for internships, co-op programs, and job placement. Overall, the Bachelor of Science in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at Georgia Tech offers a rigorous, innovative, and globally focused education designed to help students excel in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.