University of San Diego

What you'll study

The programme combines core chemical engineering fundamentals with specialised electrochemical topics and hands-on laboratory work. Typical modules cover electrochemical kinetics and transport, materials for energy storage, electrode and electrolyte design, corrosion science and prevention, and applied electrochemical characterisation techniques (potentiodynamic analysis, impedance spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry).

• Core chemical engineering subjects: transport phenomena, thermodynamics, reaction engineering and process modelling tailored to electrochemical systems.
• Electrochemical specialisms: electrochemical engineering fundamentals, batteries and supercapacitors, fuel cell technology, electrochemical synthesis and separations.
• Materials and interfaces: electrode materials, solid electrolytes, nanostructured materials and surface science for improved device performance.
• Instrumentation and characterisation: laboratory courses on electrochemical testing, microscopy, spectroscopy and data analysis.
• Modelling and simulation: continuum modelling of coupled mass, charge and heat transport in electrochemical devices and device-scale simulation tools.
• Project or thesis: an independent research project or applied capstone in collaboration with faculty or industry partners, emphasising experimental design, data interpretation and technical communication.

The programme is typically offered with a mix of coursework and a research or project component; full-time students usually complete the degree in one to two years depending on the chosen pathway (thesis versus practicum/project).

Entry requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, chemistry, materials science, mechanical engineering or a closely related science/engineering discipline from a recognised institution.
• A strong academic record in undergraduate science and engineering coursework, particularly in mathematics, thermodynamics, transport phenomena and basic electrochemistry or physical chemistry.
• Curriculum vitae or résumé detailing relevant laboratory, research or industrial experience.
• Statement of purpose outlining research interests or professional goals within electrochemical engineering.
• Two or three academic or professional letters of recommendation.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (acceptable tests and minimum scores are set by the university).
• Some applicants may be asked to provide examples of prior laboratory work or a brief research proposal; professional experience in electrochemical or energy sectors is advantageous. The programme may consider applicants with non-traditional backgrounds on a case-by-case basis if prerequisite coursework is satisfied.

Career prospects

Graduates with a master’s specialising in electrochemical engineering are well positioned for roles in the rapidly expanding fields of energy storage and conversion, corrosion prevention and electrochemical manufacturing. Typical job titles and sectors include:

• R&D engineer or scientist in battery, fuel cell and electrolysis companies.
• Process engineer or materials engineer in chemical and petrochemical industries with responsibilities for electrochemical processes or corrosion control.
• Electrochemical testing and quality assurance roles in advanced materials and component manufacturing.
• Consultant in corrosion engineering, asset integrity and materials selection for energy and infrastructure projects.
• Technical roles in environmental engineering related to electrochemical remediation and electrochemical water treatment.
• Progression to doctoral study and academic research for those pursuing long-term research careers.

Why study at University of San Diego

The University of San Diego offers a small-cohort, student-centred engineering environment where students benefit from close faculty mentorship and access to hands-on laboratory facilities. The Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering emphasises project-based learning and industry collaboration, which is particularly useful for applied fields such as electrochemical engineering.

San Diego’s strong regional ecosystem of battery developers, fuel cell and clean energy companies, materials startups and research institutions provides excellent opportunities for internships, collaborative projects and employment. Students also gain from interdisciplinary links across materials science, mechanical engineering and environmental engineering, allowing them to tailor their master’s experience to specific technical or industrial goals.

Overall, the programme is designed to equip students with the practical laboratory skills, modelling ability and industry-relevant experience needed to advance in electrochemical technology and energy-related careers.