Statistics show that average chemical engineers earn a lucrative six-figure salary. And that’s just with an undergraduate degree! An online chemical engineering master’s can unlock even better positions with higher pay and rewarding outcomes. Engineers with advanced technical knowledge in chemical engineering also have better job prospects—for example, engineering management, community college instruction, and chief engineering officer.
If you wish to pursue a similar career in this field, this article is for you. Read on to delve into chemical engineering jobs, education, salary, and the best chemical engineering master’s programs online.
Article Navigation: Chemical Engineering Explained | MS vs. M.Eng. in Chemical Engineering | How To Choose the Right Program | Overview – Online Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree | Best Schools for Chemical Engineering | Certification and Licensure | Career Overview | Professional Organizations and Resources | FAQs | Apply to a Program Today!
Chemical Engineering Explained
Chemical engineering is a multi-disciplined branch of engineering. Specifically, it combines experimental and natural sciences with life sciences, economics, and mathematics for industrial processes. These processes then transform raw materials into practically usable products.
Chemical engineers build on the knowledge of chemists and translate chemical information into practical designs. Therefore, this field divides into two extensive subgroups:
- Designing, devising, and managing machinery and plants. Conducting large-scale biological, industrial, chemical, physical, or related processes.
- Devising innovative and adapted substances for various kinds of products.
Although chemical engineers can choose one subgroup for specialization, both groups are necessary to develop a functional product. Both subgroups also manage resources, sustainability, environmental impact, health and safety, and economic viability.
What Does A Chemical Engineer Do?
Chemical engineers have various job responsibilities. Broadly categorized, they are responsible for devising and designing processes responsible for chemical manufacturing. Their primary role is to delineate and troubleshoot processes to produce fuels, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, foods, biologicals, etc. Large-scale manufacturing plants offer chemical engineering job opportunities to maximize productivity and increase product quality while minimizing costs. Also, chemical engineering education influences the production of all kinds of articles produced industrially.
Some typical job responsibilities for chemical engineers include the following:
- Conducting specialized research for enhanced manufacturing processes
- Guaranteeing compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations
- Following safety procedures for interaction with hazardous chemicals
- Calculating production expenses
- Supervising and optimizing production processes’ performance
- Devising and planning layouts for engineering equipment
Chemical engineers in business management generally spend time in production and research facilities. They also collaborate for the success and effectiveness of chemical engineering projects. Common work locations for chemical engineers include research laboratories, manufacturing plants, and pilot plant facilities. Since they work with large-scale production equipment, personal protective equipment (PPE) is an obligation.
Where Do Chemical Engineers Work?
Chemical engineering jobs generally fall into two primary categories: producing new products and industrial applications. These professionals may work in refineries, industrial plants, etc., to direct or supervise operations or resolve on-site problems. Various manufacturing industries offer chemical engineering jobs, such as the following:
- Plastics
- Paints
- Consumer Products (personal care, lawn care, cleaning)
- Pharmaceuticals
- Agricultural Chemicals (pest control, weed control, fertilizers)
- Petroleum Refining
- Batteries
- Chemical manufacturers that provide products to various other industries
MS vs. M.Eng. in Chemical Engineering
A master of science and a master of engineering in chemical engineering are two distinct degree options with specific differences. Although the core courses are similar, students can tailor them to personal and professional objectives. The prime difference between the two degrees is in the mode of chemical engineering education:
- A student pursues a thesis for a master of science in engineering.
- Students complete a portfolio project for a master of engineering in chemical engineering.
- Therefore, an MSc degree is suitable for students who wish to pursue research while working on theories.
- On the other hand, an MEng degree emphasizes the practical application of technical learning.
An MSc program also takes longer to complete than an MEng program. Students can generally complete an MEng degree in a two-semester course spanning a year. An MSc program, however, typically takes up to four semesters spanning two years.
Although both degrees are popular, all universities and colleges do not offer a choice between the two. In other words, aspirants may have to opt for an entirely different university to pursue a particular degree.
How To Choose the Right Program
A program’s cost is one of the most crucial elements before choosing any degree. Various colleges and universities offer online chemical engineering masters and lie on a vast spectrum of affordability. Thus it is necessary to do your research to opt for an institution that offers affordable education without compromising on the education and training quality.
Financial aid options entail state and federal grants, work-study programs, scholarships, and loans. Some private organizations also offer scholarships, along with particular schools and institutions.
Graduates pursuing a degree while working in the field can check out training program funding options. If they work at an organization that offers this option, their employers can pay a chunk of the tuition. Further information about financial aid opportunities and their eligibility is available on the US Department of Education’s website.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements vary depending upon the institution and program. Generally, a master’s degree requires an undergraduate degree, a minimum 3.0 GPA, recommendation letters, and a resume/CV. However, these requirements are flexible and are subject to change depending upon the status of the candidate.
Program Format
Many educational institutions offer online chemical engineering degrees in various formats. The most common are part-time or full-time and asynchronous and synchronous program formats. In short, choose a degree that provides learning options that coincide with their personal and professional obligations.
Location
The school’s location matters considerably, even for an online chemical engineering degree. Most advanced programs require a few in-person seminars, research programs, or fieldwork during the study. Additionally, the tuition rates may vary significantly for in-state and out-of-state students.
Accreditation
Accreditation is crucial as it guarantees the institution’s and program’s high academic standing. To this end, accredited institutions and degrees meet a particular set of predetermined educational standards. Also, accreditation can affect a student’s ability to enroll in continuing education programs or transfer credits.
Overview – Online Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree
An online chemical engineering master’s fosters a more advanced depth of chemical engineering skills. Specifically, it introduces them to intricate chemical engineering education culminating in diverse projects. Graduates of an accredited master’s in chemical engineering can also acquire the credential of Chartered Chemical Engineer.
Several universities also offer a “sandwich year,” which allows students to study abroad or spend a year gaining professional work experience. They can also combine chemical engineering with other disciplines, such as:
- Business management
- Environmental engineering
- Foreign languages
- Other subjects in humanities
Students enrolled in both bachelor’s and masters in chemical engineering start their program with similar core chemical engineering courses. They then delve into these subjects with more detail and can specialize from a long list of elective courses. Students in their later school years move on to advanced laboratory classes and work with chemical and industrial equipment. They also learn about ethical, environmental, and financial issues, business management, and more.
Chemical engineering courses generally involve lectures, seminars, tutorials, computer practice sessions, individual and group project work, and lab work. Industry professionals lead some programs. Most material is available digitally in the case of online chemical engineering master’s programs. However, some include on-site fieldwork.
These programs culminate with a final assessment, a development project, or substantial research. However, different programs may test students through coursework, presentations, examinations, laboratory reports, and interviews.
Online Chemical Engineering Master’s Courses
The core curriculum in an online chemical engineering master’s generally includes diverse STEM topics. Typical courses of most online chemical engineering masters are as follows:
Air Pollution Control
This program reviews the typical air pollutants and offers control measures to tackle emission hazards.
Applied Engineering Mathematics
This course offers an elaborate overview of mathematical principles and solutions for implementing engineering functions.
Advanced Polymer Science
Students study the prime principles of polymer science, such as kinetic reactions, synthesis, and systems.
Biochemical Engineering
Biochemical engineering focuses on the application of bioprocesses in diverse production settings.
Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics
For the most part, chemical engineering thermodynamics looks at the relationship between various forms of energy and heat.
Combustion Theory
This program offers a comprehensive overview of modeling principles about combustion, such as diffusion flames and pollutant formation.
Chemical Reactor Analysis
This course analyses the influence on mixing effects and reactor performance.
Design of Engineering Experiments
This course reviews the highly sustainable practices that help analyze data and design experiments in engineering.
Transport Phenomena
Transport phenomenon reviews the theory of transport phenomenon, including heat transfer and momentum.
Industrial Waste Treatment
This program examines the methods of industrial wastewater treatment.
Not all degrees offer these courses, as different chemical engineering curricula provide additional courses.
Admission Requirements
Although different chemical engineering graduate schools have different admission requirements for advanced degrees, the standard criteria are as follows:
Accredited Undergraduate Degree – An undergraduate degree is the primary admission requirement for an online chemical engineering master’s. Some programs require a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering or related disciplines.
Resume – Candidates must also submit an up-to-date resume, including prior educational and work experience.
Letter of Intent – Generally, online chemical engineering masters require a letter of intent covering professional and academic background and interest in the program.
Recommendation Letters – Chemical engineering graduate schools often request letters of recommendation or references from prior workplaces or academic supervisors.
GRE and GMAT Test Scores – Although the requirement for GRE and GMAT test scores is gradually waning, some institutes still request their submission.
Essential Skills of a Chemical Engineer
Since chemical engineering master’s online programs are multi-disciplined and multi-faceted, they foster considerable professional skills. Some of them are as follows:
- Expert-level knowledge about chemical engineering practices, methods, and theories
- Specialist understanding of scientific topics across all sciences
- Seamless use of manufacturing processes
- Comprehension of scientific literature and its application
- Specialized laboratory skills
- Organization skills and time management
- Awareness of ethical issues related to chemical engineering
- Prompt decision-making ability
- Leadership skills
- Close attention to detail
- Commercial awareness about chemical engineering and its fields
- Analysis of complex data sets to formulate practical conclusions
- Independent learning, study, and research skills
- Creative thinking skills
- Command over computer-aided design (CAD) software and Information Technology (IT.)
- Oral and written communication skills, including academically acceptable report writing and presentation making
- Terminology knowledge of minerals, chemical, and material industries
- Developed numeracy skills
- In-depth understanding of the commercial application of general engineering, chemical engineering, and science
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Project management skills
- Critical and analytical thinking ability
- Business management skills (for those who take a business management component)
- Fluent foreign language skills (for those who take a foreign language component)
Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree Timeline
These degrees generally take two years to complete. But it depends upon the program and the format. For example, an MS in chemical engineering generally takes longer: about two years. On the other hand, a master of engineering in chemical engineering takes about one year. Some institutes also offer accelerated degree options.
Best Schools For Chemical Engineering
1. University of Virginia
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Program: Master of Engineering (MEng) in Chemical Engineering
UVA is located in Charlottesville, VA, and offers completely online graduate degrees. Its Master of Engineering (MEng) in Chemical Engineering comprises 30 credit hours of coursework. Courses are generally in an asynchronous format led by the same professors that teach their on-campus counterparts. Students must attend some live lectures through videoconferencing technology, but all coursework is easily accessible through Blackboard, UVACollab, and email.
Students take five core engineering courses and can choose from various options for elective coursework, such as:
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Other engineering subfields
Students can also take up to half of their courses via a partnering institution through this degree. That is because the institute collaborates with five other in-state colleges that offer online programs. Program resources include the library, IT support, and career services, for example.
Admission requirements include:
- A bachelor’s degree
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Current resume
- Three letters of recommendation
- Official transcripts
- A personal statement
GRE test scores are not compulsory but may be submitted. The institute accepts program applications all year round.
2. Lehigh University
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Program: Online Master of Engineering in Chemical Engineering with concentration options in Chemical Energy Engineering, Biological Chemical Engineering, and Chemical Engineering
Lehigh University is located in Bethlehem, PA, and is one of the best schools for chemical engineering. Candidates for the MEng generally complete their particular program in three years; the minimum required coursework is 30 credit hours. This program uses Course Site – Lehigh University’s own learning management system – to deliver and organize class materials for online students. Thus, distance learners can submit assignments, participate in discussion forums, and track their grades. Lectures are either delivered in real-time through Classroom Live or are available for streaming on the Course Site.
Admission requirements generally include an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering. However, those with a bachelor’s in any other field can take bridge coursework to enroll in this program. Although there are no entrance exam requirements, students must submit their official documents (transcripts, etc.) with the program application. In addition, prerequisite undergraduate coursework for the chosen degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA is necessary.
Graduates are eligible for research employment. They can also benefit from an elaborate network of career resources and services for online graduate students.
3. Stanford University
Accreditation: Western Association of Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Program: Master of Science in Chemical Engineering
Stanford University is one of the best schools for chemical engineering. The school’s School of Engineering degree amalgamates core coursework with specialized elective options. The program runs entirely online, but graduates attain the same diploma as those studying on-campus. Format is lecture-based: online students take recorded lectures from the on-campus courses through MyStanfordConnection. Also, this degree offers scheduling flexibility relying on deadlines and due dates.
The curriculum includes classes such as:
- Molecular thermodynamics
- Microhydrodynamics
- Advanced biochemical engineering
No culminating thesis or research component exists, so students can complete the 45-unit requirement between two to five years, with a majority taking about 7 and 12 units every quarter. Admission requirements include academic transcripts, recommendation letters, test scores, and a statement of purpose. Military students and those who require accessibility accommodations can avail of available support. Additional support is open to all online students through professional development resources, academic advising, and IT support.
4. Illinois Institute of Technology
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Program: Master of Chemical Engineering
Illinois Institute of Technology boasts an elaborate online education system with the same faculty as its on-campus counterpart. It offers a master of chemical engineering distance learning and various other engineering programs. MEng students must complete 30 credit hours of coursework, more than half of which come from elective coursework. The necessary coursework satisfies the education required for chemical engineering. For example, it includes classes such as:
- Transport phenomenon
- Thermodynamics
- Chemical reaction engineering
Students choose their culminating option from three available options:
- Project option
- Thesis option
- Coursework-only option
The curriculum may include in-person class sessions and labs, but the rest of the coursework is available on Blackboard. Students also use Blackboard for group discussions and activities with their colleagues and to submit assignments. A blackboard mobile app is also available to dispense the education required for chemical engineering.
The institute offers free peer tutoring, mental health resources, and career services for masters of chemical engineering distance learning. This program supports an online admission form and requires students to submit transcripts, GRE scores, recommendation letters, resumes, and professional statements. Applicants must also hold an undergraduate degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Afterward, graduates of this program can find opportunities in plant process engineering, chemical engineering, research, and development.
Could not look up degree for "Illinois Institute of Technology" using "332644"!5. Auburn University
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Program: Online Master of Science in Chemical Engineering
Auburn University is a popular chemical engineering graduate school. Auburn’s Samuel Ginn College of Engineering offers an online MS in chemical engineering with flexible coursework. This advanced program requires 30 credit hours to complete and offers courses such as:
- Computer-aided process design and simulation
- Waste conversion
- Chemical kinetics and reactor design
Students can choose from various specializations. Each concentration entails different course requirements, including:
- Biochemical engineering
- Environmental chemical engineering
- Biomedical engineering
- Pre-medicine
The program uses Canvas to stream lectures for online students. Students can also submit their assignments through Panopto, a platform that contains their readings, class schedules, and syllabi. Online students do not need to give a comprehensive exam, complete a residency, or write a thesis. However, students can attain special permission to pursue a master’s thesis. Students have to pass the final exam, in this case, which takes place on the Auburn University campus.
Distance learners can benefit from all on-campus resources, including IT support, library services, and academic advising. Admission requirements for this online chemical engineering master’s include:
- A bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering or comprehensive, relevant undergrad experience
- GRE scores
- Official transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
Certification and Licensure
Certifications for Chemical Engineers
Chemical engineers can benefit significantly from engineering certifications as they certify their potential, credibility, and professional knowledge. Certifications for chemical engineers are highly suitable for landing lucrative employment positions.
Let us look at six chemical engineering certifications that aspirants can benefit from acquiring:
- Licensed Professional Engineer (LPE) certification from the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE)
- Safety and Chemical Engineering Education (SAChE) certification from the American Institute of Chemical Engineers and the Center for Chemical Process Safety (CCPS)
- Certified Chemical Engineer (CCE) certification from the National Certification Commission in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Level II Laboratory Lubricant Analyst certification from the International Council for Machinery Lubrication
- Certified Reliability Engineer from the American Society for Quality
- Six Sigma Green Belt certification from the International Associate for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC)
Licenses For Chemical Engineers
Professional Engineer (PE) license is a specialized certification that certifies an engineer’s ability, knowledge, and professional ability. Some employment positions may require a PE license, whereas others may not. However, PE license holders exhibit higher professionalism, knowledge, expertise, and understanding. Obtaining a PE license involves the following steps:
- Attain a four-year engineering degree from an accredited engineering institution and program
- Clear the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam
- Complete four years of specialized engineering experience under a PE
- Clear the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam
Career Overview
Chemical Engineering Jobs
Some common experience and new graduate chemical engineering jobs related directly to chemical engineering include the following:
- Chemical Engineer
- Energy Engineer
- Color Technologist
- Petroleum Engineer
- Product/Process Development Scientist
- Biotechnologist
- Nuclear Engineer
Certain positions where a chemical engineering degree can prove immensely useful are as follows:
- Energy manager
- Environmental Engineer
- Mining engineer
- Quality manager
- Manufacturing Engineer
- Materials engineer
- Production manager
- Water engineer
- Waste management officer
Chemical Engineering Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, today’s average chemical engineering salary stands at $105,550. The BLS also shows a promising job outlook for this profession, with a 9% increase in job growth between 2020-2030. At the same time, about 26,300 jobs were available to chemical engineers in 2020, and 2,400 new jobs may arise between 2020-2030.
Professional Organizations and Resources
Networking is crucial for chemical engineers to advance their careers and professional development. Professional societies typically arrange and sponsor conferences, act as editors or reviewers, and publish journals. They also set standards that provide job and career services for members.
- American Chemical Society – Publishes databases and scientific journals about chemistry.
- American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) – One of the world’s most reputed organizations for chemical engineering professionals with a popular area of interest in nanotechnology.
- Asian-Pacific Confederation of Chemical Engineering (APCChE) – Highly popular amongst associations, non-profit societies, and institutions working in chemical engineering in the Asian Pacific region.
- European Federation of Chemical Engineering (EFCE) – A non-profit association that covers all primary areas of chemical engineering
- Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) – One of the global professional membership organizations
- National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers (NOBCChE) – Supports and initiates regional, national, local, and global programs. It helps people of color realize their full potential in chemical engineering, chemistry, and other fields.
- American Institute of Chemical Engineers Penn State Student Chapter (PSU AIChE) – Offers academic resources and arranges beneficial events for chemical engineering professionals.
- World Chemical Engineering Council – Focuses primarily on addressing the ecological and economic changes on the global level via chemical engineering.
FAQs
Is a chemical engineering master’s worth it?
Yes, a masters in chemical engineering is worth it. In fact, graduates can land lucrative employment positions that pay around $105,550 per year. In addition, students study exciting topics such as:
- Design of engineering experiments
- Air pollution controls
- Combustion theory
- Chemical engineering thermodynamics
- Theories on explosives
Do chemical engineers need a master’s?
Chemical engineers need a master’s degree for a career in academia or research. However, the Bureau of Labor Statistics states that a bachelor’s degree is the minimum education requirement for a career in chemical engineering.
Which country is best for a master’s in chemical engineering?
The US is one of the best countries for a master’s in chemical engineering. Accordingly, it boasts the best universities specializing in chemical engineering and lucrative job prospects. Switzerland, China, Germany, Russia, Belgium, and Finland are also good options.
How long does it take to get a master’s degree in chemical engineering?
A master’s degree in chemical engineering generally requires about two years. However, a master of engineering in chemical engineering takes less time and is completable in one year.
Is chemical engineering hard?
Yes, chemical engineering is unequivocally challenging. For example, the field includes a lot of mathematics and physics. In addition, it contains a high number of examinations.
What if I’m switching from chemistry to chemical engineering?
Chemical engineering is process engineering – as in applying physics to materials. On the other hand, a chemistry degree does not include the physics and engineering parts of chemical engineering. Although chemists can be a part of the chemical engineering team, they cannot function as chemical engineers. In conclusion, they would need to take chemical engineering degree programs or courses.
Apply to a Program Today!
Chemical engineering is one of the most highly paying and fulfilling career choices. If you have an aptitude for mathematics, engineering, chemistry, or physics, then consider a master’s degree in this field. Moreover, an online degree can jumpstart any STEM career.
For this purpose, GetEducated.com is a great place to find distance learning degrees from accredited colleges and universities across the US. Check out our database of master’s in chemical engineering online today!