Edited By Barani Krishnan
Review & Contribution By Dr. Michael Roberts
Elevate your expertise with a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering. Advance your career, conduct groundbreaking research, and shape the future of engineering from anywhere.
The Doctor of Philosophy or Ph.D. degree is among the highest academic degrees universities can award. The doctoral program is for those who want to lead their comprehensive research project and receive licensure from working in various settings. Those pursuing a Ph.D. in chemical engineering can become established independent researchers equipped to apply chemical engineering principles and experimental and advanced analytical techniques to provide cutting-edge solutions to today’s problems. They are primed to work in government, industry, and academic research. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported the median wage for chemical engineers as $106,260 per year in 20221.
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PROGRAM: Find Best Degree
National University, headquartered in San Diego, California, was founded in 1971 to provide educational opportunities for adult learners and working professionals. It offers over 190 degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with flexible online and on-campus courses. Serving around 40,000 students and over 240,000 alumni, the university is recognized for its support of U.S. military members. Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), National University is committed to accessible and transformative higher education.
Find the Best Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering Programs
Finding the best online degree could include evaluating factors like research and laboratory facilities, on-field experiences, the quality of faculty and their research experience, student resources, funding opportunities, and more. A good doctoral education can significantly impact an individual’s academic or career pursuits and growth; therefore, individuals must choose wisely. The teams at FBD have evaluated colleges from all over the U.S. and, using their unique ranking methodology, prepared a list of colleges that offer the best online engineering Ph.D. programs in chemistry:
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139 | $59,750 | 95% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering Program:
The Ph.D. in chemical engineering gives the student a thorough understanding of the fundamental principles of chemical engineering and a comprehensive research experience. Most programs will require graduates to complete the core curriculum in chemical engineering, departmental biology, minor programs of related subjects outside of chemical engineering, oral and written doctoral qualifying examinations, and oral defense of a thesis. An average of 75 to 90 semester credits is required, including credits for dissertation and research. Students can expect to take four to five years to obtain a chemical engineering doctorate. Those with a chemical engineering Ph.D. can acquire advanced-level positions with high-paying roles as a principal chemical engineer, computational chemical and chemistry engineer, senior scientist, etc.
Program Structure, Coursework, and Dissertation
The curriculum of a Ph.D. in chemical engineering is designed to prepare students to become highly professional researchers and educators in the field. Students collaborate with their respective cohorts, guides, or professors throughout the doctoral degree on challenging research projects. The program typically involves working with cutting-edge technologies in research facilities of their institutions or even government and private laboratories that have tie-ups with schools.
The coursework varies from institution to institution; however, some may include metabolic systems biotechnology, interfacial science with applications to nanoscale systems, thermodynamics, statistical mechanisms, etc. Some standard Ph.D. requirements common to all programs include:
Coursework
The coursework varies by program and university. However, students can expect an average of 36 hours of graduate-level coursework, including classes like chemical engineering thermodynamics, numerical methods in chemical engineering, chemical reactor engineering, analysis of transport phenomena, and more. After finishing the coursework, there is a preliminary exam.
Preliminary Exam
Students must pass their preliminary exam to be considered doctoral candidates. This exam is typically taken after most of the required coursework is finished. Following clearance of the exam, students can start working on their dissertation research proposal from the second year onwards. If students fail to pass the exam after a specific number of attempts, they may be disenrolled from the degree.
Research and Laboratory
Research is one of the critical aspects of a doctorate. Most institutions have laboratory facilities and specialized research and analytical equipment to help students academically. Throughout the program, graduates are expected to establish a strong base of analytical and research knowledge in a laboratory, which helps them develop a marketable skill set that allows them to easily move into the workforce after completing the degree.
Dissertation
Students brainstorm their research topics with their advisor and submit a proposal to the research committee. They must then sit for oral preliminary exams to assess their understanding of the field. Finally, they must defend the proposal in a public presentation to faculty members.
Publication Requirement
Doctoral candidates must prepare, modify, and submit publications before making a dissertation defense. They must be the first author in these publications; at least one of them is generally required for a peer-reviewed journal.
To meet graduation requirements, students must typically have an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher, not including dissertation credits. Each college has specific guidelines for proposal defense, data defense, etc. The dissertation is the most critical requirement of this program, and therefore, students should discuss their coursework and other program requirements with their admissions guide or appointed faculty advisor.
Some of the common topics that past candidates could have covered include:
- Cryogenics
- Deformation of Geopolymers
- Biogas and Manure Types
- Technologies Used in the Chemical Industry
- Nanotechnology for Different Therapies
- Microbial-Enhanced Oil Recovery
- Neonicotinoids
- Eco-design for Green Chemical Engineering
- Extraction of Hydrogen From Biomass
- Life Cycle Assessment
To understand more about doctoral degrees, read the guide to Ph.D. programs.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
The chemical engineering discipline is rapidly expanding and requires engineers to be well-equipped when they enter the profession. The doctoral program in chemical engineering prepares students to fulfill such roles by offering advanced coursework to refine and update their research skills and help them gain problem-solving skills to solve challenges faced by the industry.
The Ph.D. program is designed to equip students with expert knowledge of the field’s basics and the latest research in the subfields of chemical engineering. Some skills that students develop through this degree include the ability to:
- demonstrate specialized knowledge in chemical engineering fields with a focus on urban science;
- troubleshoot designs that do not work as planned and find answers to solve the issues;
- explore different ways of applying engineering principles to the challenges faced;
- invent new materials and applications and advanced techniques of manufacturing in chemical engineering or related fields;
- demonstrate understanding of concepts of chemical engineering and apply those concepts to specific problems of production;
- implement scientific principles into practice in different industries;
- develop good relationships and work collaboratively with other workers who are involved in production and manufacturing processes;
- provide solutions to issues like workers’ problems and safety hazards that are related to environmental and manufacturing protection and
- design equipment and processes for manufacturing to be able to identify and anticipate problems.
Areas of Specialization for Chemical Engineering Ph.D. Students
Specializations enable students to acquire comprehensive knowledge of a specific sub-domain within a subject, which helps them develop expertise and skills that make them specialists in their particular area of choice. To cater to different career aspirations, online chemical engineering Ph.D. programs offer concentrations that include materials synthesis, processing and characterization, processing and control, computer-aided modeling, and hydrogen and fuel cell technology. Here are some additional specializations:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Data and Computational Science | This specialization includes learning about statistical data analysis, predictive modeling, data curation methods, and experimental design, which helps integrate advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning principles into the chemical engineering domain. | Various roles as a chemical engineer in Artificial Intelligence, Data Analysis, Computational Fluid Dynamics, and Atomistic Simulations |
| Electrochemical Energy | This concentration is on topics like engineering applications in electrochemistry, electrochemical energy storage systems, energy sources and conversion, surface reactions, and solar fuels. Students will gain expertise in understanding the fundamentals of technological challenges associated with fuel cells and batteries. | Process Engineer, Senior Electrochemical Engineer, Electrochemical Operating Engineer, Energy Management Engineer |
| Polymer Materials and Manufacturing | In this concentration, students are exposed to topics such as the processes and methods of processing polymeric materials and the properties of polymers. It is designed to promote an interdisciplinary learning process that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of polymer science. | Various roles in polymer industries involve producing rubber, adhesives, composites, paints, fibers, and plastics. |
| Process Systems Engineering | In this concentration, students develop computational capabilities and new mathematical models to improve chemical process systems’ design, operation, and synthesis, design molecules and novel materials, and optimize supply chains and enterprise operations. | Roles as a Process Engineer are essential in various industries such as agricultural processing, cosmetics, petrochemical manufacturing, mineral processing, printed circuit board production, and food and dairy production. |
| Transport and Separation Processes | In this concentration, students learn about momentum, mass transfer, separation processes, etc. It helps them obtain the necessary information for calculations to interpret process diagrams that explain basic mass transfer mechanisms. | Various roles as a chemical engineer in manufacturing industries, research, and laboratory facilities |
Full-Time and Part-Time Ph.D. Programs
The average time for students to finish a Ph.D. chemical engineering is between four and five years. Those who may be pressed for time due to work or family commitments may take over six years to obtain their doctorates. Students must do detailed coursework and research work regardless of the timeframe. Here is a quick overview of the chemical engineering Ph.D. duration:
- Minimum time required for a full-time Ph.D. in chemical engineering: at least four years
- Maximum time required for Ph.D. in chemical engineering: between 6 and 7 years
- Typical time frame to complete a Ph.D. in chemical engineering: 4 to 5 years
Accelerated Engineering Ph.D. Programs
Accelerated programs at the Ph.D. level will help students complete their degrees in less time than the usual four to five years. Through accelerated chemical engineering Ph.D. programs, students can complete their research and doctoral coursework in about four years or less. However, depending on the candidate, finishing the dissertation and fieldwork might take another year. To accelerate the doctoral program, candidates should ideally begin their Ph.D. coursework while completing their master’s program.
Requirements for Getting into a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering Program
Students who have completed their master’s and bachelor’s degrees from ABET-accredited colleges are preferred candidates for Ph.D. programs. However, some programs do not require a master’s degree for doctoral program admission; individuals with diverse academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Some of the common admission requirements for Ph.D. in chemical engineering programs are:
- Online application form and prescribed fee
- Official academic transcripts from universities attended before
- Statement of Purpose
- Letters of Recommendation (usually three are required)
- Scores of standardized tests, like GRE scores
- Curriculum Vitae or Résumé (highlighting relevant experience in chemical engineering)
- Writing sample (required for some programs)
No GRE Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering Programs
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores assess if a student can complete their coursework during the timeframe of graduation or Ph.D. independently. Many institutions nationwide increasingly do not ask for a GRE score at admission. Some colleges waive the requirement or make it optional (applicants can choose to submit their scores). Michigan Tech2 and Carnegie Mellon University3 are two examples of institutions offering a Ph.D. in chemical engineering no gre.
How to Ensure a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering Program is Accredited
Accreditation is a process that ensures that institutions and programs meet the educational standard set by accrediting bodies. A degree from an accredited institution assures students and potential employers that the programs are high quality.
Online chemical engineering Ph.D. programs are typically accredited by the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET)4. The American Institute of Chemical Engineers5 provides a list of chemical engineering programs that are accredited and recognized.
In addition to programmatic accreditation, universities may also be accredited by one of six regional accrediting agencies, which are:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)6 and the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs7 are nationally recognized bodies that provide details on a college’s accreditation status.
To understand more about accreditation, read the guide to college accreditation.
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Chemical Engineering Ph.D. Students
Free chemical engineering courses are an excellent way to acquire additional knowledge on specific topics within chemical engineering. They may also be of immense use for research and dissertation preparation. Here are a few examples to explore:
| Course | Provided by | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics8 | MIT OpenCourseWare | This course aims to teach statistical and classic thermodynamics concepts, principles, and laws. Learners will require quantitative knowledge of thermodynamic properties from the molecular to the macroscopic level. |
| Advanced Chemistry9 | Coursera | This course covers various topics on advanced-level chemistry that correlate with the required topics prescribed by the American Chemical Society. It benefits those with a background in basic chemistry, including reactions, stoichiometry, molarity, etc. |
| Introduction to Solid-State Chemistry10 | edX | This course expounds on chemical principles by examining materials with examples, from energy storage and generation to emerging technologies. It will help in developing chemical intuition and understanding of chemical principles. |
Ways to Pay for a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering Program
A Ph.D. program can be a significant investment in an individual’s career advancement, offering specialized expertise and research opportunities. However, doctoral studies are often costly, requiring careful consideration of financial resources and potential return on investment. Fortunately, there are many ways by which individuals can reduce their financial burden and pay for their doctoral studies. Some forms of financial aid for Ph.D. in chemical engineering online students include:
Scholarships
Scholarships are monetary awards given to students who excel academically. They may also be awarded to individuals who excel in music, sports, or other fields. Scholarships are popular because they are simple to obtain and do not require repayment.
Grants
Grants are financial awards given to students demonstrating financial need or for specific projects/purposes. Grant funds can be used to pay for tuition or other educational expenses.
Graduate Assistantships
Ph.D. students can work as graduate or research assistants to assist professors with academic or research work. In both cases, they are compensated with a stipend or a fee reduction for their efforts.
Student Loans
Those who may not be eligible for federal aid can apply for educational loans through banks and financial institutions. Loans are costly due to interest and must be promptly repaid. Loan default can result in mounting debt.
FAFSA
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, is a form that students can use to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid and other types of funding. Read the FAFSA guide to learn more about it.
Fully Funded Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering
“Full funding” is a financial aid package for doctoral students that includes tuition remission, annual stipend or salary for the duration of studies, and more. This funding is given in exchange for an individual’s contribution to graduate teaching or research work in parallel with their studies. While not all schools provide fully funded chemical engineering Ph.D., a few that do are:
| University | Description |
|---|---|
| Colorado State University11 | Colorado State University fully funds the Ph.D. program for accepted applicants by offering a full tuition waiver and a living stipend. The college also provides a Colorado Graduate Grant of $4,000 based on financial need. Applicants can also apply for graduate, teaching, and research assistantships. |
| Penn Engineering12 | Candidates accepted as doctoral students in the chemical and biomolecular engineering department are eligible for a fully funded degree, including health insurance, tuition, and a stipend for those in good academic standing. Funding is also given in the form of direct federal and foundation fellowships. |
| University of Michigan13 | All Ph.D. candidates accepted for admission into the chemical engineering Ph.D. program are fully supported monetarily by the University of Michigan or another external sponsor through a tuition waiver, health care, and a five-year stipend. |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating with a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering
Graduates with a PhD in Chemical Engineering often command higher salaries due to their specialized skills and in-depth knowledge. Their advanced degrees open up opportunities in research, development, and academia, allowing them to influence innovation across various industries. Salaries reflect their expertise and critical roles in advancing technological and scientific boundaries. Some of the potential career options for PhD in Chemical Engineering graduates include:
- Oil Refining
- Nuclear and Other Power Generation
- Gas and Oil Extraction
- Manufacturing Plants
- Pilot Plant Facilities
- Research Laboratories
- Pharmaceuticals
- Oil Refining
- Fine and Heavy Chemicals
- Agrochemicals
Some of these job roles for Ph.D. in chemical engineering graduates have been elaborated below:
| Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Engineers1 | Analytical skills, interpersonal skills, math skills, problem-solving skills, creativity, ingenuity | $106,260 | 8% ( faster than average) | Chemical engineers apply the principles of biology, physics, math, and chemistry to solve problems involving the usage or production of fuel, drugs, food, and other products. They also research to design new and improved manufacturing processes. |
| Chemists and Materials Scientists14 | Analytical skills, problem-solving skills, organizational skills, interpersonal skills, communication skills, time management skills | $81,810 | 6% (faster than average) | Chemists and material scientists plan and conduct research projects, such as testing methods and new products. They also instruct technicians and scientists on proper testing procedures and chemical processing, including mixing times, operating temperatures, and ingredients. |
| Biochemists and Biophysicists15 | Analytical, critical-thinking skills, interpersonal skills, math skills, problem-solving skills, time-management skills, communication skills, perseverance | $103,810 | 7% ( faster than average) | Biochemists and biophysicists study the principles of chemistry and physics and understand cell development, heredity, disease, and growth. They also conduct and plan complex projects in applied and basic research. |
| Manufacturing and Industrial Engineers16 | Creativity, critical-thinking skills, listening skills, problem-solving skills, speaking skills, writing skills, math skills | $96,350 | 12% (much faster than average) | Manufacturing and industrial engineers find different ways to eliminate waste generated during production. They design different efficient systems to integrate machines, materials, information, workers, and energy that make products or provide services. |
| Architectural and Engineering Managers17 | Analytical skills, communication skills, math skills, organizational skills, detail-oriented | $159,950 | 4% (as fast as average) | Architectural and engineering managers direct, plan, and coordinate various activities to determine training, equipment, and staff needs. They propose budgets for programs and projects and may also hire and supervise staff. |
| Natural Science Managers18 | Communication skills, interpersonal skills, leadership skills, problem-solving skills, time-management skills, critical-thinking skills | $144,440 | 5% (faster than average) | Natural science managers supervise the work of other professionals, such as physicists, biologists, and chemists. They can direct activities related to development and research, quality control, and coordination of activities like testing and production. |
Certifications and Licensing Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering Graduates
Certifications are essential to demonstrate to employers that individuals have the knowledge and relevant expertise needed to perform well in the industry. When combined with a Ph.D. degree, certifications can significantly improve career prospects and pay. Here are a few certifications Ph.D. chemical engineering students can consider:
Safety and Chemical Engineering Education (SAChE) Certificate Program19
Chemical engineers should be aware of the risks associated with technical and management concerns of process safety. This certification equips them with the knowledge to anticipate potential issues, assess the severity of consequences, and implement preventive or mitigative measures effectively.
Professional Engineering Licensure20
Understanding the laws governing this field as the culture of chemical engineering changes over time is critical. This certification establishes professional competence and knowledge of ethical rules and regulations that help protect the public’s safety, welfare, and health.
Reliability Engineer Certification21
This certification helps students understand the principles of performance evaluation and prediction to enhance systems or products for reliability, maintainability, and safety. It encompasses comprehension of failure mode effects and analysis and the operation, analysis, and planning of reliability testing and field failures.
This certification is popular among professionals versed in the methodology of Lean Six Sigma who lead or support improvement projects. It helps them understand various aspects of interpreting and performing the six-sigma tools many companies globally recognize.
Although licensure is not compulsory, some industries and settings will require chemical engineers to be licensed. To become a licensed Professional Engineer or PE, individuals must demonstrate competence by passing the Fundamentals of Engineering exam. Those seeking advanced credentials can also apply for the Principles and Practice of Engineering23. The requirements to become a PE differ from state to state, so individuals must evaluate the licensing criteria of the state where they work.
Additional Resources for Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering Graduates
Students enrolled in the chemical engineering doctoral program should ideally join and follow professional organizations in the engineering field to expand their knowledge and expertise. Doing so can help them stay connected and updated and give them access to a wealth of resources. Here are a few professional organizations chemical engineering Ph.D. students or graduates can consider:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| American Institute of Chemical Engineering | The members of this organization have unlimited access to different LIVE and archived webinars, can attend conferences to learn about developments in the field, and can be part of a larger community that will help them search for jobs and other opportunities in chemical engineering. |
| ABET or Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology | ABET is a non-governmental organization accrediting various postsecondary educational programs in engineering and engineering technology, applied and natural science, and computing degrees. They are recognized as the U.S. accreditors of universities providing engineering programs. ABET offers workshops, seminars, and webinars. These are designed to provide training and development opportunities for faculty and administrators, focusing on accreditation processes, best practices in education, and continuous improvement in engineering and technology programs. |
| National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers | This organization aims to promote careers in STEM fields by providing necessary resources to minority community students in elementary, high, and middle school. Members can get training, networking, leading, and mentoring opportunities. |
| American Chemical Society | This organization promotes public policies in areas that advance chemistry enterprise and their practitioners. They work primarily in the U.S. around four policy areas: science education and work, sustainability and environment, science in public policy, and innovation through research and technology. |
| Association of Energy Engineers | This association highlights the significant work done in the energy sector by industries, professionals, organizations, corporations, agencies, etc. It provides several benefits, like networking and connecting opportunities and resources to grow as a leader in the field. |
FAQs About Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering Programs
Can you do a chemical engineering Ph.D. program online?
Yes. Pursuing a doctorate in chemical engineering online can open the doors to many educational opportunities and provide similar benefits as traditional on-campus programs. Online programs usually cost less and are more flexible for working professionals.
Do I need a master’s in chemical engineering before joining a Ph.D. program?
Is there any practical exposure given during a Ph.D. in chemical engineering?
Are chemical engineers in high demand?
Is a Ph.D. in chemical engineering hard?
What can I do after a doctorate in chemical engineering?
Is an online chemical engineering degree worth it?
Citations:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Chemical Engineers
Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET)
American Institute of Chemical Engineers
Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)
Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs
Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics- MIT OpenCourseWare
Introduction to Solid-State Chemistry- edX
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Chemists and Materials Scientists
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Biochemists and Biophysicists
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Manufacturing and Industrial Engineers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Architectural and Engineering Managers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Natural Science Managers
Safety and Chemical Engineering Education (SAChE) Certificate Program
Professional Engineering Licensure