Chemical Engineering

Chemical Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University offers a comprehensive and rigorous education designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the chemical, pharmaceutical, energy, environmental, and materials industries. The program combines foundational principles of chemistry, physics, mathematics, and engineering with cutting-edge research and practical applications. Students will engage in multidisciplinary coursework that emphasizes problem-solving, innovation, and sustainability, equipping them to address complex global challenges. The curriculum includes core courses in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, mass transfer, reaction engineering, and process design, alongside electives tailored to emerging fields such as nanotechnology, biotechnology, and renewable energy. Laboratory work and hands-on projects foster technical skills and industry readiness, while opportunities for internships and collaborations with industry partners provide real-world experience. The program encourages analytical thinking, teamwork, and communication skills essential for successful engineering careers. Students can participate in research projects led by faculty renowned for their contributions to chemical engineering and related disciplines. The department promotes an environment of diversity, inclusion, and innovation, supporting students in developing their professional identities and ethical responsibilities. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in research and development, process engineering, consulting, or to pursue advanced degrees in engineering, business, or law. With state-of-the-art facilities and a strong network of alumni and industry partners, Carnegie Mellon’s Chemical Engineering program offers an exceptional platform for academic and professional growth.

First Year

Second Year

* Computer Science/Physics II: Students should complete 15-110 Principles of Computing or 15-112 Fundamentals of Programming and Computer Science as well as 33-142 Physics II for Engineering and Physics Students by the end of the Sophomore year. The recommended sequence is 33-141 /33-142 for engineering students, however, 33-151/ 33-152 will also meet the CIT Physics requirement.

For those students who have not taken 06-100 as one of the two Introductory Engineering Electives, 06-100 should be taken in the Fall Semester of the Sophomore year. The General Education Course normally taken during that semester may be postponed until the Junior year. These students should consult with their faculty advisors as soon as possible.

At the end of the Sophomore year, a student should have completed the following required basic science and computer science courses:

Third Year

Fourth Year

• Common Application
• $75 application fee*
• Official high school transcript (please review our Academic Requirements)**
• Secondary School Counselor Evaluation
• Teacher Recommendation
• Common Application essay and personal statement
• All fine arts applicants to the Schools of Architecture, Art, Design, Drama and Music are required to arrange an audition or portfolio review.
• Home schooled applicants should submit an academic portfolio/transcript consistent with their state guidelines and a list of all textbooks used.
• Applicants must provide proof of meeting all requirements for an official high school diploma, by the end of May of the year of graduation, and submit an official final transcript, GED or certificate of completion from your local school district or state board of education by the end of July of the year of matriculation.
• The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is required if your native language is not English. Carnegie Mellon requires TOEFL scores of 102 or better on the internet-based TOEFL (as of Fall 2010) or an IELTS score of 7.5 and above. Carnegie Mellon carefully reviews the sub-scores of each of these exams and considers those candidates with reading, listening, speaking and writing sub-scores of 25 or more on TOEFL and 7.5 or more on IELTS to be candidates with high levels of English proficiency. Please arrange to have these scores sent no later than January 1st. Carnegie Mellon's TOEFL code is 2074.
• InitialView interviews are recommended for non-native English speakers but are not required. Often these interviews can measure readiness for engagement in the classroom and also showcase a student’s personality, likes and dislikes as well as the area of intended major. InitialView interviews can show English language proficiency while also corroborating the application with more details about the student.
• If your secondary school transcript or any other admission document is written in a language other than English, it should be accompanied by an official translation and verified by a counselor or school official to be true copies of the original.
• If you are preparing for the International Baccalaureate or the General Certificate of Education (GCE) A-level examinations, please send your expected exam results.

The Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University offers a comprehensive financial aid program to support admitted students throughout their studies. The university commits to making education affordable and accessible by providing a variety of financial assistance options. Merit-based scholarships are awarded to outstanding applicants based on academic excellence, leadership, and potential contributions to the university community. These scholarships do not require repayment and can significantly reduce the overall cost of attendance.

Need-based financial aid is available to students who demonstrate financial need, determined through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile. Carnegie Mellon offers need-based grants, which do not require repayment, to eligible students. Additionally, the university provides a range of loan options, including federal student loans, which can be used to supplement other forms of aid, and private loans for students who require additional funding.

Work-study programs are also part of the financial aid package, allowing students to earn money through on-campus employment opportunities. These positions are designed to be flexible and compatible with students' academic schedules, helping them offset educational expenses while gaining valuable work experience.

The university's financial aid office provides personalized counseling to help students navigate their options and complete the necessary applications. It is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent capable students from pursuing a degree in Chemical Engineering. Furthermore, Carnegie Mellon’s robust endowment allows the university to sustain a strong financial aid program, maintaining affordability and broadening access for students from diverse backgrounds. Overall, the financing studies at Carnegie Mellon University are structured to promote educational equity, support student success, and foster a diverse and dynamic academic community.

The Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for diverse careers in the chemical process industries, energy, materials, and environmental sectors. The program combines rigorous coursework in chemistry, physics, mathematics, and engineering principles, with opportunities for research, internships, and interdisciplinary projects. Students learn about process design, thermodynamics, transport phenomena, and chemical reaction engineering, gaining both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The program emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and safety, encouraging students to develop solutions for real-world challenges. Carnegie Mellon's renowned faculty members are engaged in cutting-edge research, which often involves undergraduates, providing valuable hands-on experience. The program supports a project-based learning approach, fostering teamwork and communication skills essential for leadership roles in industry or academia. Graduates are well-equipped to pursue careers in pharmaceuticals, energy, food, consumer products, and environmental management, or to continue their education in graduate and professional schools. The university's strong industry connections facilitate internships and employment opportunities, helping students to transition seamlessly into the workforce. Additionally, the program encourages involvement in student organizations, technical societies, and entrepreneurial initiatives, creating a vibrant academic community committed to innovation and societal impact. Overall, the Chemical Engineering BS program at Carnegie Mellon aims to develop versatile engineers capable of addressing complex technical challenges with creativity and ethical responsibility.