Chemical engineering program

In our ABET-accredited program, you will study a wide range of subjects, including mathematics, chemistry and physics, as well as core engineering subjects such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, separation processes, heat and mass transfer and chemical reactor design. Our electives address numerous specialized areas of chemical engineering, and include courses in advanced materials, biochemical engineering, drug delivery, environmental engineering, fuel science, nanotechnology and polymer processing.

What you can do

From gasoline to pet food, chemical engineers are responsible for the development and production of the plastics, paper, dyes, drugs, food and fertilizers that are major components in our modern life. They invent new processes, improve existing ones and design and operate the plants and equipment needed to transform raw feed stocks into useful products, often on a massive scale.

How much you could earn

Chemical engineers typically earn between $53,730 and $130,240 annually, with an average salary of $84,680.*

Earnings over time**

Years experience Median salary
fewer than 6 $72,500
6 to 10 $88,000
11 to 15 $101,100
16 to 20 $113,000
21 to 25 $119,400

* Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 2010-2011 Occupational Outlook Handbook

**Source: 2009 AIChE Salary Survey

Where you can work

  • Fuels and petrochemicals; fine chemicals, agricultural products
  • Alternative energy & renewable fuel technologies; nuclear energy
  • Environmental engineering
  • Pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, bioengineering
  • Food processing; cosmetics, consumer products
  • Plastics, electronic materials, nanotechnology

The Chemical Engineering Program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, 111 Market Place, Suite 1050, Baltimore, MD 21202-4012 – telephone: (410) 347-7700.

Student in Microscope lab

Undergraduate Students