Chemical Engineering

A college degree in chemical engineering focuses on designing and developing chemical manufacturing processes. For example, designing ways to make medicine for diabetics or creating a new type of stain-resistant fabric.

For this major you’ll take lots of chemical engineering classes. But you’ll also need to take classes in the arts, science, math, and social sciences to earn your bachelor’s degree. These extra courses help make sure that you graduate from college with all of the skills you’ll need to prepare for a successful career as a chemical engineer.

Sample Courses

Chemical Engineering Courses:

  • Introduction to Chemical Engineering
  • Fluid Mechanics
  • Thermodynamics of Single-Component Systems
  • Heat and Mass Transfer
  • Chemical Engineering Laboratory
  • Chemical Engineering Computer Methods
  • Thermodynamics of Multi-Component Systems
  • Chemical Engineering Reactor Design
  • Chemical Engineering Materials Technology
  • Separation Processes
  • Corrosion Control
  • Chemical Engineering Design
  • Automatic Process Control
  • Chemical Process Safety

General Curriculum Requirements

  • Arts Courses: Art, History, Languages, Literature, Music
  • Math Courses: Algebra, Calculus, Computer Science, Logic, Statistics
  • Natural Sciences Courses: Astronomy, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Physics
  • Social Sciences Courses: Anthropology, Economics, Government, Psychology, Sociology
Chemical Engineering Major Overview

Watch this video overview to learn if majoring in chemical engineering might be right for you.

Chemical Engineering Major Hannah S.

“I am studying chemical engineering, and I chose this major because I’m really passionate about energy storage devices and developing them so they don’t pollute the environment, and to help make more sustainable societies.”

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Chemical Engineering Major Ksenia A.

“My major is chemical engineering. I picked my major because I already knew I was into chemistry a while ago. And then my high school physics teacher actually came up to me and said I should be an engineer just because I can apply things to the outside world. And engineering is more about that.”

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