University of South Alabama

What you'll study

This degree combines the foundational chemical engineering curriculum with targeted coursework and laboratory experience in electrochemical topics. Core subjects include calculus, general and physical chemistry, classical and statistical thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, transport phenomena, chemical reaction engineering, process control and chemical engineering design.

Electrochemical-specific modules typically cover:

• Electrochemistry: fundamentals of electrochemical cells, kinetics of electrode reactions and Nernstian behaviour.
• Energy storage and conversion: principles and design considerations for batteries, fuel cells and supercapacitors.
• Corrosion and protection: mechanisms of corrosion, materials selection, and cathodic/anodic protection methods.
• Electrochemical engineering applications: electroplating, electrosynthesis, electrochemical reactors and process integration.
• Laboratory and instrumentation: hands-on work with potentiostats/galvanostats, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, cell construction and long-term cycling tests.

Students also undertake a senior capstone or design project that integrates process design, safety, economics and sustainability; many projects centre on electrochemical devices, scale-up or system integration. Opportunities for undergraduate research with faculty in materials, corrosion, energy storage and process development are typically available, alongside cooperative education or internship placements with regional industry partners.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a strong background in mathematics and the physical sciences. Typical preparation includes high-school calculus, chemistry and physics. Admissions consider overall academic performance, coursework rigor and any relevant laboratory or extracurricular experience.

For domestic applicants, a high-school diploma with strong grades in STEM subjects is expected; applicants who have completed college coursework can apply as transfers and are assessed on college GPA and completion of introductory calculus and chemistry sequences. International applicants should present equivalent secondary qualifications and proof of English language proficiency where required. Some programmes expect placement into university-level calculus; students without adequate preparation may be advised to take preparatory courses before starting core engineering classes.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles across the electrochemical and broader chemical engineering sectors. Common entry positions include process engineer, electrochemical R&D engineer, battery development engineer, corrosion engineer, quality and manufacturing engineer, and technical specialist in electroplating or surface treatment.

Employment sectors include energy storage and battery manufacturing, fuel cell and hydrogen technologies, chemical and petrochemical plants, water treatment, materials and coatings industries, and consulting. Many graduates also pursue graduate study in electrochemical engineering, materials science, energy systems or related disciplines to move into advanced research or academic careers.

Why study at University of South Alabama

The University of South Alabama offers a programme that balances classroom learning with hands-on laboratory experience and access to faculty working on electrochemical problems relevant to energy and materials. The university's location in the Gulf Coast region provides connections to regional industries, including energy, manufacturing and maritime sectors, which support internships and applied projects.

Students benefit from small to mid-sized class settings in higher-level courses, opportunities for undergraduate research and capstone design projects that often address real-world electrochemical challenges. Academic advising and career-services support help students plan internships, co-op experiences and job placement after graduation.