Villanova University

What you'll study

The programme builds a solid chemical engineering core—material and energy balances, transport phenomena, thermodynamics, kinetics and reactor design—then applies those fundamentals to electrochemical systems. Typical subjects and learning experiences include:

• Core chemical engineering courses: calculus‑based physics, chemistry for engineers, mass and heat transfer, fluid mechanics, chemical reaction engineering and process control.
• Electrochemical and materials electives: electrochemistry, corrosion science, materials for energy storage, solid‑state electrochemistry, electrode processes and surface science.
• Laboratory and practical work: hands‑on labs in unit operations, electrochemical characterisation (e.g. cyclic voltammetry, impedance spectroscopy), and materials testing.
• Design and capstone project: multi‑semester senior design projects often addressing practical electrochemical challenges such as battery pack design, fuel cell integration, or electrolyser scale‑up; projects emphasise teamwork, cost, safety and sustainability considerations.
• Undergraduate research and internships: opportunities to work with faculty on research in energy storage, corrosion mitigation, sensors or catalysis, and to complete industrial placements in the regional energy and manufacturing sectors.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a strong secondary school background in mathematics (including calculus), chemistry and physics. Successful candidates typically demonstrate proficiency in problem solving and lab work through coursework, projects or extracurricular activities. The admissions process considers whole‑profile factors such as academic record, letters of recommendation and personal statements; some applicants may strengthen their application with relevant laboratory experience, summer programmes or engineering camps. International applicants should meet the university's English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates with a chemical engineering degree and electrochemical specialisation are well positioned for roles in energy storage, sustainable energy and materials industries. Common career paths include:

• Battery and energy‑storage engineer, working on cell chemistry, pack design or testing.
• Fuel cell and electrolyser development engineer in hydrogen and electrolysis technology companies.
• Corrosion engineer and materials specialist in oil & gas, marine, infrastructure and manufacturing sectors.
• Process engineer or R&D engineer in chemicals, speciality materials and battery materials supply chains.
• Technical consulting, quality and testing roles, or progression to graduate study and research in electrochemistry, materials science or chemical engineering.

Why study at Villanova University

Villanova combines a strong liberal arts foundation with a professionally oriented engineering school that emphasises hands‑on learning and ethical leadership. Chemical engineering students benefit from small class sizes, close faculty mentoring and access to research laboratories where electrochemical topics are investigated. The university's location near a major metropolitan region provides easy access to internships and industry partnerships in energy, materials and manufacturing. Additionally, senior design projects, undergraduate research opportunities and career services help students transition into industry roles or graduate study with practical experience and professional networks.