Chemical Engineering

Program Description:
The University of California offers a comprehensive Chemical Engineering undergraduate program designed to prepare students for the diverse and dynamic field of chemical engineering. This program combines rigorous coursework, hands-on laboratory experience, and research opportunities to equip students with the fundamental principles of chemistry, physics, mathematics, and engineering. Students will learn how to design, analyze, and optimize chemical processes used in industries such as energy, pharmaceuticals, environmental science, and materials manufacturing. The curriculum emphasizes problem-solving, innovation, and sustainable practices, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to address current and future challenges in the chemical industry. Throughout their studies, students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, interdisciplinary projects, and collaborations with industry partners, fostering practical skills and professional development. The program also offers specialized elective courses in areas such as process control, biochemical engineering, and nanomaterials, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals. With a strong foundation in both theoretical and applied aspects of chemical engineering, graduates are prepared for careers in research, development, manufacturing, and management in various sectors. The program supports students in developing critical thinking, teamwork, and communication skills, vital for leadership roles in the global engineering community. Additionally, students are encouraged to participate in internships, co-op programs, and study abroad opportunities to gain real-world experience and cultural awareness. The University of California’s Chemical Engineering program is committed to fostering innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility, ensuring graduates are ready to contribute meaningfully to technological advancements and environmental stewardship. Whether aspiring to work in industry, academia, or entrepreneurial ventures, students will find a stimulating and supportive environment to develop their potential and achieve their professional ambitions.

The M.S. Program is intended to extend and broaden an undergraduate education with fundamental knowledge in different fields. The degree may be terminal, or obtained on the way to the Ph.D. The degree is offered under both the Thesis Plan I and the Comprehensive Examination Plan II.

M.S. Time Limit Policy: Full-time M.S. students are permitted seven quarters in which to complete all requirements. While there is no written time limit for part-time students, the department has the right to intervene and set individual deadlines if it becomes necessary.

Course requirements: All M.S. students must complete a total of thirty-six units, which include a core of five courses (twenty units) chosen among fluid dynamics (CENG 210A, MAE 210B), heat and mass transfer (CENG 221AB), chemical reaction engineering (CENG 252), and mathematics. To maintain a certain balance in the core, no more than two mathematics courses should be chosen among the choices of applied mathematics (MAE 294AB or Math. 210AB) and numerical mathematics (MAE 290AB or Math. 270AB).

No more than three courses (twelve units) of upper-division courses may be applied toward the total course work requirement. No more than a total of eight units of CENG 296 may be applied toward the course work requirement. Units in seminars (CENG 259) may not be applied toward the degree requirement.

Thesis Plan I: Completion of the research thesis (CENG 299) fulfills twelve units toward the total graduation requirement. The balance is made up of the five core courses (twenty units) and additional one elective course (four units) subject to the restrictions described above. The nanotechnology concentration signifies that four elective courses are chosen from the approved courses in this area.

Comprehensive Examination Plan II: This plan involves course work only and culminates in an oral comprehensive examination based on topics selected from the core courses. In addition to the five core courses (twenty units), one must choose an additional four electives (sixteen units) subject to the restrictions of CENG 259 and 296 described above. Sample electives are listed in the table below. A student should consult his or her academic advisor to choose an appropriate course schedule, including alternatives in bioengineering, electrical and computer engineering, materials science, basic sciences, and mathematics. The nanotechnology concentration signifies that four elective courses are chosen from the approved courses in this area.

Courses

• CENG 205. Graduate Seminar in Chemical Engineering (1)
• CENG 207. Nanomedicine (4)
• CENG 208. Nanofabrication (4)
• CENG 210A. Fluid Mechanics I (4)
• CENG 211. Introduction to NanoEngineering (4)
• CENG 212. Intermolecular and Surface Forces (4)
• CENG 213. Nanoscale Synthesis & Characterization (4) 
• CENG 214. Nanoscale Physics & Modeling (4) 
• CENG 215. Nanosystems Integration (4)
• CENG 221A. Heat Transfer (4)
• CENG 221B. Mass Transfer (4)
• CENG 230. Synchotron Characterization of Nano-Materials (4)
• CENG 251. Thermodynamics (4)
• CENG 252. Chemical Reaction Engineering (4) 
• CENG 253. Heterogeneous Catalysis (4)
• CENG 254. Biochemical Engineering Fundamentals (4)
• CENG 255. Electrochemistry (4)
• CENG 256. Biomaterials and Biomimetics (4)
• CENG 257. Process Technology in the Semiconductor Industry (4) 
• CENG 259. Seminar in Chemical Engineering (4)
• CENG 296. Independent Study in Chemical Engineering (4)
• CENG 299. Graduate Research in Chemical Engineering (1-12) 
• CENG 501. Teaching Experience (2)

Requirements

Admission to the Chemical Engineering and NanoEngineering graduate programs are in accordance with the general requirements of the graduate division, which requires at least a B.S. in some branch of engineering, sciences, or mathematics; an overall GPA of 3.0; and three letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to the academic or professional competence and to the depth of their interest in pursuing graduate study.

In addition, all applicants are required to submit GRE General Test Scores. A minimum score of 550 on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is required of all international applicants whose native language is not English. Students who score below 600 on the TOEFL are strongly encouraged to enroll in an English as a second language program before beginning graduate work. UCSD Extension offers an excellent English language program during the summers as well as the academic year.

Applicants are judged competitively. Based on the candidate's background, qualifications, and goals, admission to the program is in one of three categories: M.S. only, M.S., or Ph.D. Admission to the M.S. only category is reserved for students for whom the M.S. degree is likely to be the terminal graduate degree. The M.S. designation is reserved for students currently interested in obtaining an M.S. degree but who at a later time may wish to continue in the doctoral degree program. Admission to the Ph.D. Program is reserved for qualified students whose final aim is a doctoral degree. 

Scholarships

• Global Education
• Different Fellowships and Traineeships

The Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering at the University of California offers a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in chemical process industries, research, and development, or further graduate study. The program emphasizes fundamental principles of chemistry, physics, mathematics, and engineering sciences, integrating them into an applied framework that fosters problem-solving, design, and innovation skills. Students gain hands-on experience through laboratory courses, design projects, and industry internships, which are integral parts of the curriculum and aim to develop practical competencies alongside theoretical knowledge. The coursework covers essential topics such as thermodynamics, transport phenomena, chemical reaction engineering, process control, and materials science, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to understand and optimize complex chemical processes. The program also encourages students to engage in research activities and interdisciplinary collaborations, often supported by state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities available at the university. Graduates of the program are prepared for diverse roles in sectors including energy, pharmaceuticals, environmental management, and advanced materials. The university maintains strong industry connections and emphasizes sustainable and environmentally responsible engineering practices, aligning with global efforts to develop greener technology solutions. Students are also supported by faculty who are leaders in their fields, offering mentorship and opportunities for innovative research projects. Upon completion, students earn a Bachelor of Science degree, which provides a solid foundation for pursuing professional licensing or advanced degrees such as a Master's or PhD in chemical engineering or related disciplines. Overall, the program aims to produce versatile engineers who can adapt to technological advances and contribute to solving pressing societal challenges through advanced chemical engineering solutions.