COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering at RIT is a five-year program that provides a strong foundation in chemistry, mathematics, physics, and engineering principles while emphasizing real-world experience through cooperative education. In the first year, students study introductory chemical engineering concepts along with general and analytical chemistry, calculus, physics, and general education courses in writing, arts, and ethics, building essential scientific and analytical skills. In the second year, students advance into core topics such as chemical process analysis, organic chemistry, thermodynamics, transport processes, differential equations, multivariable calculus, and statistics, supported by laboratory work and preparation for co-op experiences.The program includes multiple co-op blocks starting in the summer of the second year and continuing into the third and fourth years, allowing students to gain extensive hands-on industry experience. In the third year, students focus on more specialized topics such as computational techniques, process transport, mass transfer operations, and chemical instrumental analysis, along with general education courses. The fourth year continues with advanced subjects including reaction engineering, transport phenomena, and chemical engineering process labs, along with immersion courses that broaden interdisciplinary learning.In the fifth year, students complete advanced coursework in system dynamics and control, materials science, and design with constraints, along with professional technical electives that allow them to specialize in areas of interest. The program culminates in a capstone design project where students apply their knowledge to solve complex, real-world engineering problems in a team setting. Overall, the program totals 129 credit hours and integrates rigorous academics with practical experience, preparing graduates for careers in industries such as energy, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and materials science, or for advanced graduate study in engineering.