University of Arizona

What you'll study

This four‑year chemical engineering degree provides core training in calculus, physics, general and physical chemistry, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, reaction engineering and process design. From the second year onward you will combine the core chemical engineering curriculum with electives and practical modules that address electrochemical principles and applications.

• Core subjects: calculus and differential equations, general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, materials science, thermodynamics, transport phenomena, chemical reaction engineering, process control and safety, and senior capstone design.
• Electrochemical modules and topics: fundamental electrochemistry (electrode kinetics and mass transport), corrosion science and prevention, electrochemical energy storage (battery technology and diagnostics), fuel cells and electrocatalysis, electrochemical sensors, and electrochemical process engineering.
• Laboratory and practical experience: hands‑on laboratory classes in reaction engineering and transport, electrochemical characterisation (potentiodynamic/potentiostatic methods, impedance spectroscopy), materials characterisation techniques, pilot‑scale testing where available, and a team‑based capstone or design project centred on a realistic electrochemical engineering challenge.
• Research and electives: opportunities to undertake undergraduate research with faculty working on energy storage, corrosion, electrochemical conversion, and related materials; elective courses in materials for energy, renewable energy systems, and process modelling.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a strong academic record with particular strength in mathematics and the physical sciences. Typical preparation includes high school courses in calculus (or precalculus with a plan to take calculus early), physics and chemistry. Prospective students are expected to be ready for university‑level calculus on entry.

• Application is through the University of Arizona admissions process; candidates normally submit high school transcripts and any institutional or national examination results (for international applicants: IB, A‑levels or accepted equivalents).
• Standard application materials such as a personal statement and any required school counsellor or teacher recommendations are considered. Admission may be selective; successful applicants typically demonstrate strong quantitative performance and commitment to STEM activities.
• Standardised test reporting policies may vary; check the university admissions pages for current guidance on SAT/ACT submission. International applicants must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates with a chemical engineering degree and electrochemical specialisation enter a broad set of industries where electrochemical processes and materials are central. Career paths commonly pursued include:

• Battery engineer or energy storage specialist in automotive, grid storage or consumer electronics sectors.
• Fuel cell and hydrogen technologies developer for transportation and stationary power.
• Corrosion engineer and materials performance specialist for oil & gas, infrastructure and defence industries.
• Process engineer, plant design engineer or operations engineer in chemical, petrochemical and manufacturing industries incorporating electrochemical processes.
• Research and development roles in national laboratories, industrial R&D labs, or continuation to graduate study (M.S./Ph.D.) in electrochemical engineering, materials science or related fields.
• Opportunities in environmental and water treatment technology, sensors and analytical instrumentation, consulting, and technology commercialisation.

Why study at University of Arizona

The University of Arizona College of Engineering offers a well‑established chemical engineering programme with access to faculty conducting research in electrochemical systems, energy conversion and materials for sustainable technologies. Students benefit from hands‑on laboratory instruction, undergraduate research opportunities and collaborative projects that bridge chemistry, materials science and engineering.

The university's research environment, industry partnerships and proximity to regional and national research facilities provide routes to internships and applied projects. Small cohort lab classes, capstone design teams and dedicated engineering career services help translate classroom learning into workplace skills valued by employers in energy, manufacturing and research sectors.