University of Alabama

What you'll study

This master's pathway combines core chemical engineering topics with specialist electrochemical subjects. Typical coursework covers advanced transport phenomena, chemical thermodynamics, reaction engineering and process modelling, together with targeted modules in electrochemical engineering such as electrochemical kinetics, battery science, fuel cell technology, corrosion and protection, and electrode/electrolyte materials.

Students usually choose between a thesis (research) and a non-thesis (coursework and project) option. Research students work under a faculty supervisor on an original project that may include experimental work in electrochemical cells, materials synthesis and characterisation, modelling of charge and mass transport, or pilot-scale testing. Non-thesis students complete advanced coursework and a design or research project demonstrating applied competence in electrochemical systems.

• Advanced Transport Phenomena
• Electrochemical Kinetics and Electrode Processes
• Battery Materials and Cell Design
• Fuel Cell Engineering
• Corrosion Science and Protection
• Electrochemical Methods and Instrumentation (laboratory)
• Process Modelling and Control
• Research Thesis or Capstone Project

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering or a closely related engineering or science discipline. Selection is based on academic record, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose outlining research interests. Candidates with undergraduate preparation lacking specific chemical engineering fundamentals may be admitted with the expectation of completing prerequisite undergraduate coursework.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency. Applicants with relevant research or industry experience in electrochemical systems, materials, energy storage, or corrosion will be competitive. Admission may be to the thesis or non-thesis route depending on the candidate’s goals and availability of a research supervisor.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for technical and leadership roles across energy, materials and process industries. Common career paths include positions as battery or fuel cell engineer, electrochemical process engineer, corrosion engineer, materials scientist, R&D engineer, and systems designer for energy storage and conversion. Alumni also pursue doctoral research and academic careers, or technical roles in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, renewable energy, chemical manufacturing and consulting.

Why study at University of Alabama

The University of Alabama offers this specialism within a well-established College of Engineering with active research in materials, electrochemistry and energy systems. Students benefit from access to laboratory facilities for electrochemical characterisation, materials synthesis and pilot testing, as well as interdisciplinary centres that support materials and energy research. Faculty working in electrochemical engineering have collaborations with industry and national laboratories, providing opportunities for applied research projects and internships.

Small cohort sizes in the graduate programme allow close mentoring by faculty and tailored project supervision, while the university’s regional and national industry links help graduates transition into R&D and engineering roles in the growing energy storage and electrochemical manufacturing sectors.