Degree Granting Programs

The overall goal of our graduate programs is to provide students an outstanding educational experience that combines in-depth study in classic chemical engineering areas (e.g., transport phenomena, thermodynamics, reaction kinetics, and separations) with sufficient breadth in a range of relevant topical areas that will prepare students to tackle the highly-interdisciplinary problems that are characteristic of the rapidly-evolving field of chemical engineering today.

Two different degree-granting options are available for students admitted into our graduate program. We urge you to consider your educational goals and apply to the appropriate degree-granting program.

1. Master of Science Degree (Terminal M.S.) The terminal M.S. degree is designed to provide students with the necessary educational and research tools to succeed in industrial careers in the biotechnology sector. Two plans are available for the M.S. degree: a thesis option and a course work option. The thesis option allows for M.S. candidates to conduct a relatively short-term research project under the guidance of a faculty mentor. Opportunities are also available part-time study towards the M.S. degree.
   
   
2. Doctor of Philosophy Degree (Ph.D.) The doctoral program is designed to prepare students for careers in industry, academia, and government that require a deep philosophical understanding that only comes by completing a Ph.D. The doctoral program is tailored to the individual needs and background of the student. The required courses for each Ph.D. student are formulated in consultation with an advisory committee which takes into consideration the objectives and preparation for the candidate. Doctoral students typically "match" with a faculty mentor during their first year, and conduct their dissertation research in that advisor's laboratory. Doctoral students are often supported as research assistants by their advisor's research funds, or as teaching assistants.

   Students holding a B.S. degree with a strong commitment to earning a doctorate should apply directly to the Ph.D. program. These students will typically earn an M.S. along the path to the Ph.D. by completing the coursework requirements for the M.S. degree. Students possessing an M.S. degree already may also enter the Ph.D. program directly.

Please note that admission to, and successful completion of, the terminal M.S. program does not guarantee admission to the Ph.D. program nor does it guarantee financial support for your education. Some faculty prefer to reserve financial support for Ph.D. students, but prospective students should contact individual faculty about the availability of funded positions in their respective research laboratories.