Chemical Engineering MSCHE
Degree Awarded: Master of Science in Chemical Engineering (MSCHE)
Minimum Required Credits: 30.0
Co-op Option: Available for full-time, on-campus master's-level students
Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code: 14.0701
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code: 17-2041
About the Program
Students in the Master of Science in Chemical Engineering program gain advanced knowledge in the core areas of thermodynamics, transport phenomena, chemical kinetics and reactor design, and quantitative analysis. Through this foundation, they develop the ability to analyze and model complex chemical and biological systems, design and optimize sustainable processes, and apply data-driven and computational tools to engineering challenges. Graduates emerge with competencies in critical thinking, experimental design, and professional communication.
Drexel’s MS in Chemical Engineering emphasizes applied, hands-on learning through a flexible curriculum that can be tailored to individual goals. Students may choose among thesis, non-thesis research, coursework-only, or co-op options, reflecting Drexel’s distinctive integration of classroom learning with real-world experience. Coursework is complemented by laboratory and computational projects that translate theory into practice. Electives allow students to explore advanced topics such as polymer science, electrochemistry, energy and environmental technology, or emerging interdisciplinary fields like immunoengineering.
Graduates of the MS program pursue diverse career trajectories in chemical, pharmaceutical, energy, materials, and biotechnology sectors, as well as in government research and consulting. Many continue into doctoral study or transition into management and technical leadership roles. The program also offers the scientific and analytical foundation necessary for advancement in both industrial and academic careers.
Drexel’s signature experiential learning model distinguishes the MS in Chemical Engineering from peer programs. Students can engage in graduate co-op placements through the Steinbright Career Development Center, gaining direct experience in industry settings that accelerate career readiness. The course catalogue has been designed deliver practical knowledge of modern chemical engineering systems and provide actionable expertise to further a student’s ambition in either industry or academia. The program’s interdisciplinary environment by linking chemical, biological, and materials engineering cultivates engineers who can bridge scientific discovery and technological application. This combination of flexibility, applied research, and professional preparation defines the Drexel advantage.
Additional Information
For more information about this program, please contact the School of Engineering
Admission Requirements
Students should fulfill Drexel University's general requirements for admission to graduate studies. The subjects normally included in an undergraduate program in chemical engineering provide a satisfactory background. Decisions regarding prerequisite qualifications for students who may be deficient in some areas are made after consultation with the departmental graduate advisor.
The core courses are designed for students with undergraduate training in chemical engineering; however, students with a background in other disciplines can also enroll in the core courses after completing the necessary basic engineering courses and disciplinary chemical engineering courses. Programs for such students are determined on an individual basis after consultation with the departmental graduate advisor.
Graduate study in Chemical Engineering is offered on a regular full-time basis and on a part-time basis. Details not covered in the following information may be obtained by contacting the departmental graduate advisor. The General (Aptitude) Test of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is required for applicants pursuing full-time study.
Degree Requirements
| Core/Foundational Courses | ||
| CHE 5002 | Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics | 3.0 |
| CHE 5003 | Kinetics and Catalysis | 3.0 |
| CHE 5004 | Transport Phenomena | 3.0 |
| CHE 5005 | Quantitative Analysis for Chemical Engineers | 3.0 |
| Subject Area Focus | ||
| Select two courses from the list below: | 6.0 | |
| Fundamentals of Solar Cells | ||
| Electrochemical Engineering | ||
| Introduction to Rheology | ||
| Solutions to Climate Change | ||
| Engineering Molecular and Cellular Therapeutics | ||
| Spectroscopy for Engineers | ||
Select any 5800-7800 level CHE Special Topics course | ||
Select any 5900-7900 level CHE Independent Study course | ||
| Electives | ||
| Select any College of Engineering and Computing course at the 5000-7997 level | 3.0 | |
| Select any courses within the 5000-7999 level | 6.0 | |
| Optional Thesis | ||
| Select one of the following options: | 3.0 | |
| Non-Thesis | ||
Select any course within the 5000-7999 level | ||
| Thesis | ||
| Master's Thesis | ||
| Optional Co-op Experience | ||
| Co-op is an option for this degree for full-time on-campus students. Students choosing this option will be required to complete COOP 5000 as preparation for their co-op experience. | 0.0 | |
| Total Credits | 30.0 | |
Program Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate advanced level proficiency in fundamental chemical engineering principles of thermodynamics, transport phenomena, and reaction kinetics.
- Demonstrate advanced level proficiency in engineering mathematics.
- Demonstrate advanced level proficiency in one or more relevant areas of specialization for chemical engineers such as biological engineering, computational engineering, energy, environment and sustainability, polymers, and engineering management.
- Demonstrate the ability to solve unique scientific/engineering problems through independent research that applies experimentation, theory, modeling, and/or simulation (for MS thesis option).