COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science in Chemical Engineering is a structured graduate program designed to deepen technical expertise in core chemical engineering principles while also offering flexibility for specialization and professional development. All students complete advanced foundational coursework in key areas such as thermodynamics, transport phenomena, chemical reaction engineering, and computational methods, ensuring a strong and consistent technical base regardless of track. From there, the program splits into two distinct pathways: Plan I (thesis option) and Plan II (non-thesis option), both requiring completion of 30 credit hours but differing in emphasis and culminating requirements.In Plan I, students complete at least 24 credit hours of coursework plus a minimum of 6 credit hours of thesis research (CHE 599). This pathway emphasizes original, faculty-supervised research conducted in specialized laboratories. Students design and execute an independent research project, culminating in a written thesis and a final comprehensive oral defense before a graduate committee. This option is typically chosen by students intending to pursue research careers or continue toward a PhD.In Plan II, students complete 30 credit hours of coursework without a thesis, but they must complete a structured capstone experience. This includes a formal research presentation to faculty, which may be based on either literature review or applied research work, along with a mentored instructional experience (CHE 591 Special Problems) and a seminar component (CHE 595). Instead of a thesis, students may submit a manuscript, conference paper, or seminar-based scholarly output approved by their advisory committee. This pathway is more professionally oriented and often better suited for industry-bound graduates.Both tracks require completion of the same core graduate courses (CHE 551–554), ensuring consistent mastery of advanced chemical engineering fundamentals. Elective courses allow students to explore specialized areas such as polymers, bioengineering, process safety, and computational methods. Admission is competitive and based on faculty recommendation, and students from related STEM backgrounds may be admitted with additional preparatory coursework.Overall, the program is designed to be completed in about one to two years and prepares graduates either for advanced industry roles in chemical and process engineering or for continued doctoral-level study, depending on the chosen plan.