COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science in Chemical Engineering is a flexible and individually structured program that allows students to design their course of study in collaboration with a faculty advisor, aligning academic work with career goals and research interests. The program can serve either as a terminal degree for direct entry into industry or as a preparatory step for those intending to pursue a Ph.D., and it is typically designed to be completed in less than two years. Students can choose between two degree plans that differ in their emphasis on research and coursework. Plan 1 is a research-focused option requiring a minimum of 30 credit hours, including 24 credits of coursework and 6 credits dedicated to a master’s thesis, with at least 12 credits specifically in chemical engineering. This plan requires students to conduct original research and successfully defend their thesis in an oral examination, making it well-suited for those interested in research-intensive roles or further academic study. Plan 2, on the other hand, emphasizes coursework and applied learning, also requiring a minimum of 30 credit hours, including 27 credits of coursework and 3 credits allocated to an M.S. project, with at least 15 credits in chemical engineering. Instead of a thesis, students complete an independent study project and must pass an oral examination based on both their coursework and project work. This option is ideal for students seeking to develop strong technical and practical skills for professional careers. Overall, the program’s adaptable structure ensures that students gain a solid foundation in chemical engineering while also developing research, analytical, and problem-solving abilities, preparing them for diverse opportunities in industry, academia, and advanced research environments.