Chemical engineers conceive and design processes to produce, transform and transport materials — beginning with experimentation in the laboratory and followed by implementation of technologies in full-scale production.
The mission of the undergraduate program in Chemical Engineering is to develop students' understanding of the core scientific, mathematical and engineering principles that form the foundation underlying these technological processes. The program's core mission is reflected in its curriculum, which is built on a foundation in the sciences of chemistry, physics and biology. Course work includes the study of applied mathematics, material and energy balances, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, energy and mass transfer, separations technologies, chemical reaction kinetics and reactor design, and process design. The program provides students with excellent preparation for careers in the corporate and government sectors, or for advanced study.
Learning outcomes (undergraduate)
Learning outcomes are used in evaluating students and the undergraduate program. The department expects undergraduate majors in the program to be able to demonstrate the following:
- an ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science and engineering.
- an ability to design and conduct experiments, and to analyze and interpret data.
- an ability to design a system, component or process to meet desired needs within realistic constraints such as economic, environmental, social, political, ethical, health and safety, manufacturability and sustainability.
- an ability to function on multidisciplinary teams.
- an ability to identify, formulate and solve engineering problems.
- an understanding of professional and ethical responsibility.
- an ability to communicate effectively.
- the broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global, economic, environmental and societal context.
- a recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in, life-long learning.
- a knowledge of contemporary issues.
- an ability to use the techniques, skills and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice.
- the background for admission to engineering or other professional graduate programs.
