Chemical Engineering

The Bachelor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering at the University of Calgary is a rigorous and comprehensive program designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers in the chemical, biomedical, environmental, energy, and materials industries. This undergraduate degree combines fundamental engineering principles with specialized training in chemical processes, designing, and analyzing systems involving the transformation of matter. Throughout the program, students develop strong problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and technical expertise necessary to address complex challenges in process design, optimization, safety, and sustainability. The curriculum includes core courses such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, mass transfer, chemical reaction engineering, and process control, alongside laboratory work and project-based learning experiences that foster practical skills. Additionally, students gain hands-on experience through cooperative education placements, internships, and industry collaborations, providing valuable industry exposure and networking opportunities. The program emphasizes the importance of safety, environmental responsibility, and ethical considerations in engineering practice. Graduates of the Bachelor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering are well-equipped to pursue professional engineering licensure, advanced studies, or entrance into diverse sectors including manufacturing, energy production, pharmaceuticals, environmental management, and consulting. The program is supported by faculty members who are experts in their fields, state-of-the-art facilities, and access to cutting-edge research initiatives. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, the University of Calgary’s Chemical Engineering program aims to produce graduates capable of contributing responsibly and effectively to societal needs and technological advancement.

The Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering at the University of Calgary offers students a comprehensive education designed to prepare them for innovative careers in the chemical, petroleum, environmental, and related industries. The program combines a solid foundation in fundamental sciences and engineering principles with practical and hands-on learning experiences. Throughout the degree, students engage with core subjects such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, mass transfer, chemical reaction engineering, and process design, which are essential for understanding and developing chemical processes.

The curriculum emphasizes laboratory work, simulations, and project-based learning, providing students with essential skills in process analysis, control, and optimization. Students also explore specialized areas such as biomaterials, energy systems, environmental engineering, and sustainable development, reflecting current industry trends and future challenges. The program encourages the development of problem-solving skills, innovation, teamwork, and effective communication, preparing graduates to work in multidisciplinary teams and adapt to a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Research opportunities are available through collaborations with industry partners and faculty-led projects, allowing students to immerse themselves in real-world challenges. Additionally, the program includes courses on ethics, safety, and the societal impact of engineering decisions, fostering responsible and sustainable engineering practices. The University of Calgary’s state-of-the-art facilities and supportive academic community equip students with the tools to succeed in their academic pursuits and future careers. Graduates of the program are well-positioned to pursue advanced studies or enter the workforce as competent, innovative chemical engineers capable of contributing to the development of new technologies and solutions that benefit society and the environment.

The Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering at the University of Calgary requires a comprehensive combination of coursework, laboratories, and projects designed to provide students with a strong foundation in chemical engineering principles. Prospective students must complete a total of approximately 120 credit hours, including both core and elective courses. The program begins with foundational courses in mathematics, physics, and chemistry, which are essential for understanding advanced chemical engineering concepts. These introductory courses typically include Calculus I, II, and III, Differential Equations, Physics for Science and Engineering, and General Chemistry.

Following the foundational courses, students proceed to core chemical engineering classes such as Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Heat and Mass Transfer, Chemical Process Principles, and Material and Energy Balances. Laboratory components are integrated throughout the curriculum to give practical experience in chemical engineering practices, including process simulation, safety, and instrumentation. These laboratory courses often involve hands-on experiments and projects that develop students’ technical skills.

In addition, students are required to complete courses in plant design, process control, and safety engineering to prepare them for real-world applications. The program emphasizes problem-solving, design thinking, and teamwork through design projects and case studies. Furthermore, students are encouraged to select elective courses in specialized areas such as environmental engineering, biochemical engineering, or nanotechnology to customize their education according to career interests.

To graduate, students must also complete a capstone design project in their final year, which involves designing and analyzing a chemical process or system. The program may also include co-op work placements, providing valuable industry experience and professional development opportunities. Overall, the program aims to equip graduates with the technical knowledge, practical skills, and ethical awareness necessary for careers in chemical process industries, research, or further graduate studies.

The University of Calgary offers a comprehensive range of financing options for students enrolled in the Chemical Engineering undergraduate program. Prospective students can explore various financial aid opportunities, including entrance scholarships, faculty-based awards, and government-sponsored bursaries. Entrance scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence demonstrated during high school, with students automatically considered upon application. In addition to these, the university provides our own merit-based awards such as the President's Admission Scholarship and the Calgary Excellence Scholarship, which recognize outstanding achievements in academics, leadership, or community involvement.

Furthermore, the university offers need-based financial assistance through Alberta Student Aid, which includes grants and loans to eligible students. International students pursuing Chemical Engineering may also seek scholarship opportunities specific to international students, as well as external funding from organizations such as the Canada Education Savings Grant and private foundations. Students are encouraged to apply early for these awards, as funding availability may vary annually.

The university provides work-study programs allowing students to gain practical experience while earning income to help offset costs. These positions are typically on-campus and related to students’ field of study, fostering professional development and easing financial burdens. Additionally, many students secure external scholarships from industry partners, professional societies, or community organizations. These partnerships often provide specialized funding opportunities for students entering fields like chemical engineering.

Financial planning resources, including one-on-one counseling and online tools, are available to assist students in budgeting and understanding their monetary options throughout their studies. The university also offers payment plans that enable students to spread tuition payments over the duration of the semester or academic year, making education more affordable and accessible. Overall, the University of Calgary’s diverse range of financial supports aims to reduce financial barriers and promote equitable access to education in Chemical Engineering, ensuring students can focus on their academic and professional development without undue financial stress.

The Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering at the University of Calgary is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for careers in the chemical, petrochemical, pharmaceutical, environmental, and materials industries. This program offers a robust curriculum that integrates fundamental sciences such as chemistry, physics, and mathematics with specialized chemical engineering courses. Students gain hands-on experience through laboratory work, design projects, and co-op opportunities, which enhance their practical skills and industry readiness.

The program emphasizes core areas including process design, reaction engineering, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and materials science. Students are encouraged to develop problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills to effectively address complex engineering challenges. The curriculum is periodically updated to reflect technological advancements and industry practices, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the evolving energy, environmental, and industrial sectors.

The University of Calgary’s state-of-the-art laboratories, research centers, and industry partnerships provide students with access to cutting-edge facilities and real-world learning environments. The program also offers specializations and electives that allow students to tailor their education towards areas such as environmental engineering, biomedical applications, or sustainable processes.

Students are supported by dedicated faculty members who are active researchers and industry professionals. The program promotes experiential learning through co-op work terms, internships, and research projects, enabling students to gain valuable industry experience during their undergraduate studies. Upon graduation, students are well-equipped to pursue professional engineering licensure, graduate studies, or direct employment in various sectors. The Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering at the University of Calgary is committed to fostering innovative thinking, ethical responsibility, and lifelong learning among its students, aiming to produce graduates capable of contributing to technological advancement and sustainable development worldwide.