Chemical Engineering

Chemical Engineering at the California Institute of Technology offers a rigorous and comprehensive program designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the chemical industry, energy, materials, and related fields. The curriculum emphasizes fundamental principles of chemistry, physics, mathematics, and engineering, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications through laboratories and research projects. Students will develop a strong foundation in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, reaction engineering, and process design. The program encourages innovative problem-solving skills and a deep understanding of sustainable and environmentally responsible engineering practices.

Throughout their undergraduate studies, students have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research alongside renowned faculty members who are leaders in their fields. The program promotes interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to explore related areas such as materials science, biochemical engineering, and environmental systems. Emphasizing hands-on experience, the curriculum includes laboratories, design projects, and internships that prepare graduates for complex technical challenges in industry or academia.

The Chemical Engineering program at Caltech also fosters critical thinking and communication skills, essential for the development of effective engineers and researchers. Students are encouraged to participate in seminars, workshops, and professional development activities, cultivating a well-rounded educational experience. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue advanced degrees or enter the workforce as innovative engineers who can address global challenges such as energy sustainability, pollution control, and novel material development. The program’s integration of theoretical and applied learning ensures students are not only knowledgeable but also highly adaptable and prepared to contribute meaningfully to society.

Second Year

• Ma 2 ab - Sophomore Mathematics
• Ph 2 ab - Sophomore Physics
• Ch/ChE 9 - Chemical Synthesis and Characterization for Chemical Engineering
• ChE 15 – Introduction to Chemical Engineering Computation
• Ch 41 abc - Organic Chemistry
• ChE 62 - Separation Processes
• ChE 63 ab - Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics
• ACM 95 abc - Introduction to the Methods of Applied Mathematics
• PE – Physical Education
• HSS electives

Third Year

• ChE 103 abc - Transport Phenomena
• ChE 101 - Chemical Reaction Engineering
• ChE 105 - Dynamics and Control of Chemical Systems
• Ch/ChE 91 - Scientific Writing
• ChE, Ch, track courses, and electives
• Ec 11, BEM 102, or BEM 103
• HSS electives

Fourth Year

• ChE 126 - Chemical Engineering Lab
• ChE, Ch, track courses, and electives
• Ch 21 ab1 - Physical Chemistry
• HSS electives
• 1 Ch 24 can be substituted for Ch 21 b

Requirements

• Common Application or the Coalition Application with Caltech Questions - Caltech does not have a preference between the Common Application or the Coalition Application. We advise that you use the best platform for your application process.
  • Note: Caltech is also a QuestBridge Partner. Students may apply for Caltech through the QuestBridge College Match Program.
• $75 application fee or fee waiver (Common App waiver, Coalition Application waiver, or Caltech-specific waiver)
• SAT with Optional Essay or ACT with Writing (official scores from testing agency)
• SAT Subject Test in Mathematics Level 2 (official scores from testing agency)
• 1 SAT science subject test: biology (ecological), biology (molecular), chemistry, or physics (official scores from testing agency)
• 1 math or science teacher evaluation
• 1 humanities or social sciences teacher evaluation
• Secondary School Report
• Academic transcripts
• TOEFL scores - Required of all international citizens unless 1) your native language is English; or 2) you have had school instruction for two or more years in English. The two years of school instruction must be completed prior to the application deadline). We do not accept the IELTS or any other substitute for the TOEFL requirement.
• International Financial Aid Statement of Intent - When an international citizen applies for freshman admission, the application prompts questions to confirm his/her understanding of our financial aid policy and thus confirm his/her financial aid intent towards Caltech. Caltech is need-sensitive for international citizens because the total amount of financial aid funds is limited for these students, and we remain committed to meeting the demonstrated need of all admitted students.

Scholarships

• Need-based scholarships 
• Caltech Scholarships

The California Institute of Technology offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering. This program is designed to prepare students for careers in chemical manufacturing, environmental science, materials engineering, and related fields by providing a rigorous education in chemical processes, molecular science, and engineering principles. The curriculum combines fundamental engineering concepts with advanced topics in chemistry, physics, and mathematics to develop students’ problem-solving skills and technical expertise. Students gain hands-on experience through laboratory work, research projects, and internships, which are integrated into the program to enhance practical understanding. The program emphasizes innovation and sustainability, encouraging students to develop solutions for real-world challenges such as renewable energy, pollution control, and sustainable manufacturing. Faculty members are distinguished researchers and educators, offering mentorship and collaboration opportunities. The program also promotes interdisciplinary learning, allowing students to explore related fields such as materials science, applied physics, and environmental engineering. Graduates of the chemical engineering major are well-equipped for careers in industry, academia, government, or entrepreneurship. They typically pursue employment with chemical companies, energy firms, pharmaceutical corporations, and environmental agencies, or continue their education through graduate studies. The university’s strong emphasis on research and interdisciplinary collaboration ensures that students are prepared for the evolving demands of the chemical engineering profession. The program’s facilities include state-of-the-art laboratories and computational resources to support learning and research initiatives. Overall, the Chemical Engineering program at Caltech aims to cultivate highly skilled professionals who can contribute to technological advancements and sustainable development worldwide.