Chemical Engineering

The University of California offers a comprehensive Chemical Engineering undergraduate program designed to prepare students for the dynamic and innovative field of chemical engineering. This program combines rigorous coursework with practical laboratory experiences, fostering both theoretical understanding and real-world skills essential for success in industry, research, and academia. Students will explore core principles such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, chemical reaction engineering, and process control, gaining a solid foundation in the fundamental sciences and engineering principles. The curriculum also emphasizes modern topics including sustainability, green engineering, and advanced materials, enabling graduates to address contemporary challenges with innovative solutions. Throughout the program, students have opportunities to engage in research projects, internships, and collaborations with industry leaders, allowing them to apply their knowledge to solve real-world problems and develop critical thinking skills. The faculty comprises experts in various specialties within chemical engineering, providing mentorship and guidance to support each student’s academic and professional growth. The program aims to produce well-rounded engineers who are equipped with the technical expertise, ethical awareness, and leadership qualities necessary to excel in a diverse array of careers, from process design and manufacturing to environmental protection and biotechnological innovations. Upon graduation, students will be prepared to pursue advanced degrees or enter the workforce in sectors such as energy, pharmaceuticals, food processing, and materials development. The university fosters an inclusive and stimulating environment, encouraging interdisciplinary learning and innovation, ensuring that graduates are equipped to contribute meaningfully to society's technological and environmental progress.

Areas of Study

Specialization in semiconductor manufacturing. The specialization requires that the student have advanced knowledge of processing semiconductor devices on the nanoscale. This knowledge is assessed in a comprehensive examination.

Course Requirements

The requirements for the M.S. degree are nine courses (36 units) and a minimum 3.0 grade-point average in the graduate courses. Chemical Engineering 200, 210, and 220 are required. Two other courses must be taken from regular offerings of the department, and two additional courses may be Chemical Engineering 598, involving work on the thesis. The remaining two of the nine courses may be taken from those offered by the department, or from any other field in life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, or engineering. At least 24 units must be in letter-graded 200-level courses.

All master's degree candidates are required to enroll in Chemical Engineering 299 during each quarter of residence.

Specialization in semiconductor manufacturing. Students in this specialization are required to complete 10 courses (44 units) with a minimum 3.0 grade-point average overall and in graduate courses. A minimum of five (20 units) 200-series courses are required including 270 and 270R. Students are also required to take Chemical Engineering 104C and 104CL; Electrical Engineering 123A; and Materials Science and Engineering 121. In addition, students must select two courses from the department's list of electives as well as two courses from elective offerings in the Departments of Electrical Engineering and Materials Science and Engineering; a minimum of two of these elective courses must be in the 200 series. Approved elective courses include: Chemical Engineering C219, C214, C218, 223, C240; Electrical Engineering 124, 221A, 221B, 223, 224; Materials Science and Engineering 210 and 223.

Students in the specialization of semiconductor manufacturing who have been undergraduates or graduates at UCLA and who have already taken some of the required courses may substitute electives for these courses. However, no courses taken while not enrolled in the semiconductor manufacturing specialization may be counted toward the 10-course requirement for the degree. A program of study encompassing the course requirements must be submitted to the research adviser for approval before the end of the student's first quarter in residence.

A program of study which encompasses these requirements must be submitted to the departmental Student Affairs Office for approval before the end of the student's second quarter of residence.

Undergraduate Courses. No lower division courses may be applied toward graduate degrees. In addition, the following upper division courses are not applicable toward graduate degrees: Chemical Engineering 102A, 199; Civil Engineering 106A, 108, 199; Computer Science M152A, M152B, 199; Electrical Engineering 100, 101, 102, 103, 110L, M116L,199; Materials Science and Engineering 110, 120, 130, 131, 131L, 132, 150, 160, 161L, 199; Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering 102, 103, 105A, 105D, 199.

Teaching Experience

Not required.

Field Experience

Specialization in semiconductor manufacturing. Students are required to take Chemical Engineering 270R, a directed research course, in the field, working at an industrial semiconductor fabrication facility. The proposed research must be approved by the graduate adviser for semiconductor manufacturing and the industrial sponsor of the research.

Capstone Plan

This plan is only for students in the specialization in semiconductor manufacturing. Students take Chemical Engineering 597A to prepare for a comprehensive written examination. The examination tests for knowledge of the engineering principles of semiconductor manufacturing. In case of failure, the examination may be repeated once within one quarter with the consent of the graduate adviser for the specialization. Second failure of the examination leads to a recommendation to the Graduate Division for termination of graduate study.

Thesis Plan

Every master's degree thesis plan requires the completion of an approved thesis that demonstrates the student's ability to perform original, independent research.

This plan is for all M.S. degree students who are not in the specialization in semiconductor manufacturing. These students must complete a thesis. Students should consult the research adviser for details on the thesis plan. Thesis plan students nominate a three member thesis committee that must meet University regulations and be approved by the Graduate Division, as outlined in Standards and Procedures for Graduate Study at UCLA.

Time-to-Degree

The average length of time for students in the M.S. program is six quarters. The maximum time allowed for completing the M.S. degree is three years (nine quarters) from the time of admission to the M.S. program in the School.

Specialization in semiconductor manufacturing. Students in this specialization must complete the degree in two years (six quarters). The program may be completed in one calendar year (three quarters and a summer session) by enrolling in three courses per quarter and for one summer session. Students who are enrolled less than full-time must complete the degree in three years (nine quarters).

Requirements

• An international student whose post-secondary education is completed outside of the U.S. is expected to hold a degree representing completion of at least four years of study with above average scholarship from a university or university-level institution.
• 3 Letters of Recommendation
• Applicants who wish to specialize in semiconductor manufacturing must hold a B.S. degree in engineering or physical science. Experience working in the semiconductor industry is highly desirable but not required. Applicants with this work experience should have their supervisor write one of the letters of recommendation.
• In addition to the University's minimum requirements and those listed above, all applicants are expected to submit the departmental supplement, a statement of purpose, and a bachelor's degree in a field that provides the student with at least two years of preparation in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and engineering.
• When applying to a UCLA graduate program, each international applicant is required to submit to that program official records from all academic institutions she or he attended.
• If you achieved a score of 100 or higher on the TOEFL iBT, or 7.5 or higher on the IELTS, the ESLPE requirement is waived.
• If you scored below 100 on the TOEFL iBT, or below 7.5 on the IELTS, you mustsit for the ESLPE upon arrival at UCLA and immediately enroll in any assigned English as a Second Language courses.

Financing studies for the Chemical Engineering program at the University of California are structured to support students through various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. The university offers several merit-based and need-based scholarships specifically aimed at engineering students to ease the financial burden and promote diversity within the field. Scholarships such as the Regents Scholarship and the Chancellor’s Predoctoral Fellowship are available to outstanding students demonstrating academic excellence and research potential.

In addition to institutional scholarships, students are encouraged to explore federal financial aid opportunities, including Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), and federal student loans, which can be used to cover tuition, living expenses, study materials, and other educational costs. The university's financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance on applying for these programs and regularly updates students on deadlines and eligibility criteria.

Work-study programs are also an essential component of the financial support system, allowing students to work part-time on or off-campus in roles related to their field of study. This not only helps offset educational expenses but also provides valuable work experience and professional networking opportunities.

Furthermore, the university collaborates with private organizations and industry partners to offer internships and sponsorships that can include financial support. Many students also benefit from funding their research projects through fellowships or assistantships, particularly at the graduate level, which include tuition remission and stipends.

Overall, the University of California demonstrates a strong commitment to making Chemical Engineering education accessible through a variety of financial assistance programs designed to meet diverse student needs. Prospective and current students are advised to regularly consult the university’s financial aid website and attend information sessions to stay informed about available resources and application procedures.

The University of California offers a comprehensive Chemical Engineering program designed to prepare students for careers in industry, research, and academia. The program provides a rigorous foundation in chemical processes, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, kinetics, process design, and materials science. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, allowing them to gain practical experience through hands-on projects and internships. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, encouraging innovation and problem-solving skills essential for the chemical engineering field. Students can participate in interdisciplinary research initiatives, collaborate with faculty on cutting-edge projects, and engage with industry partners through cooperative education opportunities. The program aims to develop graduates who are well-versed in sustainable practices, safety protocols, and ethical considerations relevant to chemical engineering. Graduates often pursue careers in pharmaceutical manufacturing, energy production, environmental protection, and materials development. The university also offers opportunities for specialization within the field, such as biochemical engineering, process control, or nanomaterials. Faculty members involved in research are leaders in their fields, contributing to advances in renewable energy, advanced materials, and biotechnologies. The program is designed to meet accreditation standards and prepare students for professional licensure as chemical engineers. Students are encouraged to participate in professional societies like AIChE, attend conferences, and publish their research. Overall, the UC Chemical Engineering program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to solve real-world problems and innovate in the chemical sciences.