Chemical Engineering

The Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering at the University of California offers students a rigorous and comprehensive education designed to prepare them for a broad range of careers in the chemical, pharmaceutical, environmental, energy, and materials industries. The program combines fundamental principles of chemistry, biology, physics, and mathematics with practical engineering skills, providing students with a solid foundation in both theoretical concepts and applied techniques. Throughout their coursework, students engage in laboratory experiments, design projects, and research initiatives that foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovative capabilities essential for tackling real-world challenges in chemical processes and manufacturing.

The curriculum is structured to develop proficiency in core areas such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, reaction engineering, process design, and control systems. Students also gain specialized knowledge in areas like biochemical engineering, sustainable energy solutions, nanotechnology, and materials science, reflecting the university’s emphasis on interdisciplinary learning and cutting-edge research. The program encourages students to participate in internships, co-op experiences, and industry partnerships to gain valuable hands-on experience and professional connections.

Faculty members are renowned experts in their fields, dedicated to mentoring students and advancing research in areas such as catalysis, renewable energy, and environmental remediation. The university’s state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities provide an ideal environment for experimentation and discovery. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue advanced degrees, certification, or employment in various sectors including chemical production, pharmaceuticals, energy development, environmental protection, and technological innovation. With a strong emphasis on sustainability and ethical engineering practices, the program aims to produce responsible professionals capable of making a positive impact on society and the environment.

• Introduction to Chemical Engineering Design (3)
• Introduction to Chemical Engineering (3)
• Chem-E-Car Activity (1)  
• Introduction to Research (1-3)    
• Biomaterials and Biosurfaces (3) 
• Introduction to Biological Processing (3)
• Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics (3)
• Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics (3)
• Current Events in Chemical Engineering (1) 
• Transport Processes (4) 
• Colloids and Biosurfaces (3)
• Advanced Topics in Transport Phenomena/Safety (3)    
• Principles of Bioengineering (3)  
• Non-Newtonian Fluids, Soft Materials and Chemical Products (3)     
• Separation Processes (3) 
• Analytical Methods in Chemical Engineering (4)     
• Computational Methods in Chemical Engineering (3) 
• Statistical Methods in Chemical Engineering (3)
• Chemical Reaction Engineering (3)  
• The Science and Engineering of Energy Conversion (3) 
• Process Dynamics and Control (4)     
• Advanced Process Control (3)    
• Engineering Approaches to Systems Biology (3)     
• Introduction to Polymer Science (3)     
• Molecular and Cellular Biology for Engineers (3) 
• Introduction to Biochemical Engineering (3)  
• Biotechnology Laboratory (4)     
• Chemical Engineering Laboratory (3)     
• Design of Chemical Processes (3)     
• Internship in Industry (1-4)
• Group Studies for Advanced Students (1-4)     
• Undergraduate Research (2-4)    
• Independent Studies in Chemical Engineering (1-5)       

Requirements

• Completion of Secondary Attestat with a minimum average of at least 4
• Completion of at least 5 General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE, GCSE, O-Levels) and at least 3 General Certificate of Education (GCE, A-Levels) with a minimum average of B and with no grade below C
• Completion of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma with minimum average of 5.0 with no individual grade below 4.0 and a minimum of five IB exams, with at least two taken at the higher level. Exams must be taken in academic subjects comparable to the ‘a-g’ course pattern required for freshman eligibility. UCSB uses grades leading up to the final year to determine if a student will be eligible for admission along with predicted grades for year 12. 
• All applicants must submit scores from the ACT Assessment plus Writing or the SAT Reasoning Test.
• Proficiency in English may be demonstrated by taking the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). The minimum accepted score for admission consideration for the TOEFL is 80 or better on the Internet-based test and 550 or better on the paper-based test. 
• Proficiency may also be demonstrated with the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam. The minimum accepted score for the IELTS is 6.5 or better band score (academic modules). 

The University of California offers a range of financial aid options to support students enrolled in the Chemical Engineering program. Undergraduate students can apply for federal and state grants, such as Pell Grants and Cal Grants, which provide need-based funding to assist with tuition, fees, and living expenses. Additionally, the university offers scholarships based on academic merit, leadership qualities, and financial need, which can significantly reduce the overall cost of education. Many students also utilize federal student loans, including Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, to finance their studies, with favorable interest rates and flexible repayment options.

Work-study programs are available to eligible students, allowing them to earn money through part-time employment on campus, which helps offset educational costs while gaining valuable experience in the field of engineering. The university provides a range of departmental scholarships specifically for students studying chemical engineering, recognizing academic achievement and research potential. Institutional aid is complemented by external funding opportunities, such as private scholarships from industry partners and professional organizations related to chemical engineering.

California residents benefit from in-state tuition rates, which are more affordable compared to out-of-state students who may pay higher fees. To receive financial aid, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually, ensuring their eligibility is accurately assessed. The university’s financial aid office offers counseling and resources to help students navigate the application process and plan their finances effectively. Advanced degree students, such as those pursuing master's or doctoral studies in chemical engineering, often have access to research assistantships and teaching assistantships, which provide stipends and tuition waivers in exchange for research or teaching responsibilities. Overall, the University of California is dedicated to making chemical engineering education accessible by providing comprehensive financial support options tailored to the diverse needs of its students.

The University of California offers a comprehensive Chemical Engineering program designed to prepare students for diverse careers in the chemical, pharmaceutical, energy, environmental, and materials industries. The program provides a rigorous curriculum that combines fundamental principles of chemistry, physics, mathematics, and engineering, along with practical laboratory skills and industrial processes. Students have opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research projects, internships, and collaborations with industry partners, fostering a hands-on learning experience. The program emphasizes sustainable and environmentally friendly engineering solutions, aligning with current global challenges. Faculty members are renowned experts in their fields, contributing to innovative research and maintaining teaching excellence. State-of-the-art laboratories and facilities support experimental learning and research activities. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue careers in research and development, process engineering, technical consulting, or advanced studies in graduate or professional schools. The program also encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating knowledge from biological systems, environmental sciences, and materials engineering. It particularly focuses on safety, ethics, and societal impact, preparing students to address real-world problems responsibly. With a strong network of alumni and industry connections, the program offers excellent employment prospects and opportunities for further academic achievement.