Chemical engineering

Chemical Engineering at MIT offers a comprehensive and rigorous undergraduate program designed to equip students with a strong foundation in chemical principles, engineering techniques, and scientific understanding. The curriculum integrates core topics such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, process design, and chemical reaction engineering, providing students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Through lecture courses, laboratory work, and project-based learning, students gain hands-on experience in designing, analyzing, and optimizing chemical processes used in industries including energy, pharmaceuticals, materials, and environmental management. The program emphasizes innovative thinking, problem-solving abilities, and the application of engineering principles to address complex global challenges such as sustainable energy, environmental protection, and novel material development. Students are encouraged to engage in multidisciplinary collaborations, internships, and research projects that deepen their understanding of real-world applications. The undergraduate curriculum also includes training in safety protocols, environmental considerations, and the economic aspects of chemical process industries, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for careers in industry, academia, or entrepreneurship. Recognized as a leading program worldwide, MIT’s Chemical Engineering department benefits from access to state-of-the-art laboratories, cutting-edge research initiatives, and a vibrant community of scholars and industry partners. Graduates of the program are equipped not only with technical expertise but also with leadership skills, ethical awareness, and a commitment to innovation and sustainability. The program aims to produce graduates who can contribute to advancing technology, improving processes, and creating sustainable solutions that benefit society globally.

General Institute Requirements (GIRs)

The General Institute Requirements include a Communication Requirement that is integrated into both the HASS Requirement and the requirements of each major; see details below.

Departmental Program

Choose at least two subjects in the major that are designated as communication-intensive (CI-M) to fulfill the Communication Requirement.

The units for any subject that counts as one of the 17 GIR subjects cannot also be counted as units required beyond the GIRs.

Requirements

• Application fee / fee waiver
• Parent Information
• Essays
• Self-reported Coursework Form
• At MIT, we require letters of recommendation from two teachers (one math/science, one humanities), plus materials from your school counselor (typically including your transcript, a school profile, and a letter of recommendation). 
• TOEFL iBT 100
• Interview

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

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) offers various financial aid options to support students pursuing a degree in Chemical Engineering. The university is committed to ensuring that all admitted students have access to the necessary resources to complete their education regardless of financial background. MIT's financial aid program is need-based and aims to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Students are encouraged to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS Profile to determine their eligibility for financial support.

MIT provides a range of scholarships, grants, work-study opportunities, and loans to assist students in financing their studies. Merit-based scholarships are also available for exceptional students, although the primary focus remains on need-based assistance. The institute offers a robust work program, including research and teaching assistantships, which allow students to earn money while gaining valuable experience. These employment opportunities often cover a significant portion of educational expenses and help reduce the reliance on loans.

The financial aid process at MIT begins with the submission of financial documentation during the application process or soon thereafter. Once admitted, students are automatically considered for all available aid options. MIT’s financial aid office works closely with students to develop personalized aid packages based on their unique financial circumstances. The institution strives to minimize the financial burden on students through grants rather than loans, emphasizing the importance of affordable education.

Moreover, MIT is dedicated to transparency in its financial aid policies, providing clear information about the costs of attendance and available resources to support students financially. The institute also offers additional resources for financing graduate studies, including fellowships, research stipends, and sponsorships from external organizations. For international students, MIT provides comprehensive support, including specific fellowships and scholarships designed to make attendance feasible.

Overall, MIT's financing studies for the Chemical Engineering program are designed to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent talented students from pursuing their academic and career goals. Through a combination of grants, work opportunities, and counseling, students are equipped with the necessary funding and support systems to successfully complete their degree at MIT.

Chemical Engineering at MIT combines fundamental science and engineering principles to prepare students for careers in industry, research, and academia. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in chemistry, physics, mathematics, and biology, alongside engineering design, process systems, and materials science. Students learn to develop and optimize chemical processes, scale laboratory procedures to commercial production, and address complex challenges such as sustainability, energy efficiency, and materials development. The curriculum offers a broad range of courses, including thermodynamics, transport phenomena, reaction engineering, process control, and biochemical engineering, allowing students to tailor their education to specific interests. Undergraduate students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, research centers, and collaborative projects, fostering hands-on experience and innovation. The program encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, enabling students to work with faculty across departments such as materials science, biology, and environmental engineering. Graduates of MIT's Chemical Engineering program are highly sought after by leading companies in pharmaceuticals, energy, materials, and consulting, as well as research institutions. The program also offers opportunities for graduate study, including master's and doctoral degrees, with a focus on cutting-edge topics like nanomaterials, sustainable processes, and advanced manufacturing techniques. Students are prepared to contribute to technological advancements and address global challenges through rigorous education and impactful research.