Suppose you are passionate about building a career in chemical engineering, especially after a first degree. In that case, there are quite a lot of chemical engineering master’s programs that you can take advantage of that will put you on the right track toward a fulfilling and rewarding career path.
The field of chemical process engineering lies at the interface of mathematics, chemistry, and physics. Throughout history, important social issues such as food shortages, health care, air and water quality, and the sustainable production of fuels have been raised.
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Masters Degree in Chemical Engineering
Master’s degrees in chemical engineering prepare future leaders in this field who creatively solve problems to improve society. Students develop theoretical knowledge, research and communication skills, originality, analysis, and critical thinking skills.
They also develop professional skills such as collaboration, research ethics, and writing for scientific publications. Typically, these programs last about two years. Program requirements typically include courses in mathematical methods, research methods and design, transportation phenomena, technical thermodynamics, chemical reaction engineering, and other important skills and knowledge.
Read: 10 Best Chemical Engineering Ph.D. Programs In 2024
What do Chemical Engineers do?
Ultimately, chemical engineers create processes that produce, transform, and transport materials. Chemical engineers are in high demand because they influence numerous areas of technology and are necessary for many industries.
This includes traditional industries such as the chemical, energy, and oil industries. However, chemical engineers are also increasingly active in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, environmental technology, and the manufacture of electronic devices.
Some chemical engineers specialize in a particular area, e.g., biotechnology, nanomaterials, or developing certain products. Process engineers specialize in a process such as polymerization or oxidation. Chemical engineers also produce food, clothing, electronics, paper, and energy.
You can do research in the fields of biotechnology, business services, and life sciences. Chemical engineers are responsible for improving and developing new manufacturing processes, troubleshooting, defining and following safety procedures, estimating production costs, and complying with environmental regulations.
Chemical engineers mainly work in offices and laboratories. They are widely used in research and development, engineering services, petroleum and coal products manufacturing, wholesale, and pharmaceuticals.
Requirements for a master’s degree in Chemical Engineering
Applicants for master’s degrees in chemical engineering must have a high school diploma from an accredited institution. A degree in chemical engineering is ideal but usually not required. Degrees in related fields such as chemistry, physics, microbiology, and materials science are widely accepted.
Applicants who do not have a degree in chemical engineering may need to complete additional preparatory courses or demonstrate knowledge of key areas. Some programs require a minimum GPA, e.g., 3.0 or higher.
Applicants must also submit GRE assessments, with quantitative assessment being critical. Although most programs do not publish a minimum GRE score, many publish the average GRE score of previously admitted students. This gives applicants an idea of the number of points they should aim for to submit a competitive application.
Additional application requirements may include a personal statement, resume, and letter of recommendation. Interviews are usually not required.
Applicants generally apply through graduate school, and faculty members examine applications in chemical engineering. For some programs, applicants must select at least one faculty advisor to apply, who can then select the applicant for admission to the program and act as a student research advisor.
The applications are checked holistically for students who meet the school’s and the program’s minimum requirements, i.e., all factors and submitted materials are considered.
If you are a chemical engineering intern, there are great opportunities to explore and get paid while doing your internship. Click the link to access the 13 Paid Chemical Engineering Internships.
How much can I make with a Master’s in Chemical Engineering?
According to the National Association of Universities and Employers, the average starting salary for a master’s degree in chemical engineering is $72,889. It is the highest starting salary among engineering majors. Of course, this salary increases with increasing experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median wage for chemical engineers is $104,910.
Chemical engineer’s salaries in the top industries they work in are:
- Manufacture of petroleum and coal products: $113,380
- Physics, engineering, and life sciences research and development: $108,440
- Engineering services: $107,840
- Wholesale: $103,110
- Pharmaceutical/drug manufacturing: $100,800
The lowest 10% among all chemical engineers earn an average salary of $64,890, while the highest 10% bring $169,770 home.
What are the job prospects for Chemical Engineers?
The employment of engineers grows about as fast as the average of all careers. Over the next 10 years, employment change is expected to increase by 6%. (The average of all careers is 5%.) The demand for chemical engineers largely depends on the demand for products from different manufacturing industries.
As the manufacturing industry grows, the exciting chemical engineering field also grows.
Also, see: 13 Paid Chemical Engineering Internships In 2024
What are the Top Schools offering Best Chemical Engineering Masters Programs?
Here are the Best Chemical Engineering Masters Programs from the most efficient school offering the course. You can click on the program to access more information about the Chemical Engineering Masters Programs in the school.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology Engineering School
The School of Engineering is a popular destination for MIT students and faculties. Approximately 45 percent of all MIT graduates, approximately 2,800 students, are enrolled in the School of Engineering, and approximately one-third of all faculty members teach there.
Almost 20 research centers on campus deal with topics as diverse as cancer research, marine technology, and soldier nanotechnology.
MIT offers a part-time career reengineering program for prospective students who already work in one engineering area but want to switch to another.
Students can live on the MIT campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts, making it an ideal place to go to class and explore downtown Boston across the Charles River.
Tuition Fees: $18,971
Student-Faculty Ratio: 3:1
Acceptance Rate: 7%
Graduation Rate: 94%
Stanford University
Master of Science in Chemical Engineering
Stanford University is a private research university in the heart of Silicon Valley. It was opened in 1891 as a place for discovery, innovation, learning, and discourse.
Doctoral students benefit from a highly collaborative intellectual community, professional and professional development opportunities, and the opportunity to participate in research or teaching assistant positions.
Stanford’s MS in Chemical Engineering program is based on lectures with no research or thesis. All courses are available online, but students can also take on-campus courses.
For all students, a program proposal must be completed in the first quarter and submitted to the chair for approval. Students must have a total GPA of 3.0 in all courses that count towards the degree.
Tuition Fees: $17,271
Student-Faculty Ratio: 5:1
Acceptance Rate: 4%
Graduation Rate: 94%
Cornell University
Master of Science in Chemical Engineering
Cornell University in Ithaca, NY, founded in 1865, has built a rich tradition of shared songs, traditions, and activities. The private Ivy League University is ranked by U.S. News & World Report among the top 20 in the country.
The curriculum is research-based, practical, and very cooperative. Cornell’s Master of Science in chemical engineering is usually completed in two years. It prepares students for non-academic research careers and can serve as a springboard for a doctorate Program.
Chemical engineering students use state-of-the-art facilities that are constantly being improved by new equipment. At the Robert Frederick Smith School of Chemical Engineering and Biomolecular Technology, known as the Smith School, students enjoy an unrivaled culture of collegiality and the experience of working for a social impact.
Tuition Fees: $28,890
Student-Faculty Ratio: 9:1
Acceptance Rate: 11%
Graduation Rate: 95%
University of California, Los Angeles
Master of Science in Chemical Engineering
The University of California at Los Angeles has been a pioneer in higher education for almost 100 years. Since 2010, UCLA has provided an average of $1 billion annually in competitive research grants and contracts. Its core task can be summarized as education, research, and service.
UCLA’s MS requirements in chemical engineering consist of nine courses, a thesis, and a minimum GPA of 3.0 in graduate courses. Advanced Engineering Thermodynamics, Advanced Chemical Reaction Engineering, and Advanced Mass Transfer are required.
The Chemical and Biomolecular Process Engineering Department is at UCLA’s Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science. The faculty consists of first-class researchers in their respective fields, all of whom have received national and international awards.
Tuition Fees: $15,002
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Acceptance Rate: 14%
Graduation Rate: 91%
Also, see: How can I become a Chemical Engineer in 2024? Schools, Cost, Programs & Salary
University of California, Berkeley
Master of Science in Chemical Engineering
From its founding in 1868 by academic pioneers to freedom of speech in the 1960s, UC Berkeley has always been a place for smart, curious minds who want to improve the world.
In Berkeley, theses in chemical engineering focus on original research in innovative areas of applied science. The Department of Chemical Engineering and Biomolecular Technology houses leading research programs in separation processes, heterogeneous catalysis, molecular thermodynamics, and beyond.
The Master of Science in Chemical Engineering is offered by the Berkeley College of Chemistry and requires 24 semester units. At least 12 units must come from 200-level chemical engineering courses. A graduate advisor approves the remaining upper department and/or research courses.
Tuition Fees: $17,862
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Acceptance Rate: 15%
Graduation Rate: 91%
Georgia Institute of Technology
Master of Science in Chemical Engineering
With the transition of the agricultural south to an industrial society, the Georgia Institute of Technology, based in Atlanta, was opened in 1888. In 1948, the university changed its name to Georgia Institute of Technology to highlight the growing focus on technological and scientific research.
The School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at Georgia Tech is one of the best engineering programs in the country. It is also one of the country’s largest, oldest, and most diverse programs.
The Master of Science program at the School of Chemical Engineering offers both final theses and pure coursework. Students are encouraged only to pursue the thesis option if a research advisor has been found, and a Graduate Research Assistantship funds the proposed work.
Applicants must have at least a 3.3 GPA and submit GRE ratings.
Tuition Fees: $16,850
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Acceptance Rate: 22%
Graduation Rate: 87%
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Master of Science in Chemical Engineering
The Worcester Polytechnic Institute, founded in 1865 in Worcester, Massachusetts, wants to use scientific and technical knowledge to benefit society. The school curriculum combines theory and practice and offers strict, flexible, project-based training.
Situated on a hill above New England’s second-largest city, the WPI’s prime location offers access to a vibrant cultural scene and plenty of opportunities and amenities.
The WPI offers an MS in Chemical Engineering with a thesis option, a non-thesis option, and a professional engineering option with a concentration. Each of the three options requires 30 credit hours.
Regardless of the study option, the program offers a culture of collaboration, personal care of the faculties, and practical research and cooperation experience. Some of these research opportunities result from external programs, many of which are international.
Tuition Fees: $20,106
Student-Faculty Ratio: 22:1
Acceptance Rate: 42%
Graduation Rate: 87%
University of Minnesota – Twin Cities
Master of Science in Chemical Engineering
With spending of over $ 900 million, the University of Minnesota is number 9 in research at public universities in the United States. The researchers were largely responsible for inventing the pacemaker and establishing the state medical device industry.
Today, alongside the award-winning faculty, students are actively involved in researching a zero-gravity flight, DNA repair, and more.
The 30-credit Master of Science in Chemical Engineering combines applied research and advanced coursework to prepare students to succeed as private and public engineers. Students must have a GPA of 3.0 throughout the program to maintain a good reputation.
The Department of Chemical Engineering has numerous laboratories and facilities, including an Advanced Materials Center and a Chocolate Laboratory, where students learn advanced concepts by applying them to chocolate.
Tuition Fees: $16,691
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Acceptance Rate: 52%
Graduation Rate: 80%
See Also: 10 Best Masters In Chemical Engineering Degree Programs | 2024
Texas A&M University
Master of Science in Chemical Engineering
In 1876, Texas A&M opened its doors as the state’s first public university. The research-intensive flagship continues to send executives into the world who are well-prepared to be successful and make valuable contributions to society.
TAMU’s main campus at College Station is in the heart of the Houston-Dallas-Austin triangle. College Station is generally considered one of the best university cities in the country.
Whether the students at TAMU aim for a thesis or a non-thesis in chemical engineering, they develop professional skills and knowledge through creativity and research. The students plan their courses in consultation with a study advisor.
For the option of the final thesis, students complete at least 32 credit hours of approved courses and research. Students who choose the no thesis option to take at least 36 credit hours of approved courses.
Artie McFerrin’s chemical engineering department emphasizes real experience through research, internships, and co-op training opportunities.
Tuition Fees: $19,118
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Acceptance Rate: 68%
Graduation Rate: 82%
University of Colorado Boulder
Master of Science in Chemical Engineering
CU Boulder enrolls 34,000 students, making it the largest University of Colorado system with four campuses. The student population at the public research university is diverse, talented, curious, and motivated.
To obtain an MS in chemical engineering from CU Boulder, 30 recognized credit hours and a defense of the final thesis or a comprehensive final examination are required. The students develop a study plan in consultation with an advisory board. The degree can be completed in a maximum of two years.
The program aims to develop executives in emerging areas requiring qualified chemical engineers through challenging research and innovative study achievements.
Applicants must hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution with an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.25. They must submit an online Graduate Application with a resume, personal statement, three letters of recommendation, and unofficial transcripts.
Tuition Fees: $21,466
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Acceptance Rate: 82%
Graduation Rate: 71%
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
Master of Science in Chemical Engineering
The South Dakota School of Mines and Technology is located in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota and offers outstanding achievements in science and technology. As the name suggests, the school was originally founded to teach mining, the region’s main industry.
Since its founding in 1885, SD Mines has grown into one of the region’s leading research, science, and engineering universities. It prepares future leaders and problem solvers who will be innovative and affect the world.
Students pursuing an MS in chemical engineering from SD Mines have a thesis option and a non-thesis executive track. With the option for a 30-hour credit thesis, students complete 24 credit points (13 basic requirements, 11 electives) and six theses.
The executive program emphasizes industrial needs, and students must take at least one course in technology management. Students who choose the option without a thesis can take courses on campus or online.
SD Mines also offers an Accelerated Master’s program, allowing students to complete a BS and an MS in chemical engineering in five years.
Tuition Fees: $18,706
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Acceptance Rate: 83%
Graduation Rate: 54%
Chemical Engineering Masters – FAQs
While chemical engineering is a field that pays well no matter the level of education, the salary potential for master’s level chemical engineers stretches into six figures, according to PayScale.
One to two years
The Master’s degree typically requires one to two years to complete, depending on the intensity of the study and whether a thesis is produced. The data science track can be completed in 10 months (one academic year plus the summer A term).
Chemical Engineers. Employment of chemical engineers is projected to grow 6 percent from 2018 to 2028, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Demand for chemical engineers’ services depends largely on demand for the products of various manufacturing industries.
Conclusion
Having a master’s degree in chemical engineering may be a competitive advantage for you as long as you obtain a degree in a respected and technologically advanced institution. That is why we have made available for you the best chemical engineering master’s programs, where you can kickstart your pursuit in that arm of engineering.
Reference
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