by our College Data Analytics TeamDo you like problem solving and learning how things work? Are you fascinated by the chemical reactions of substances? A major in Engineering Chemistry will help you explore your interests.
Students who major in Engineering Chemistry learn about two different fields and the way these fields interact. You will take classes on topics such as chemistry, biochemical engineering, computer science, applied mathematics, physics, and biology to learn the skills to use chemistry to solve engineering problems. You will graduate with the ability to aid the development of electronic materials, troubleshoot manufacturing dilemmas, lead projects while collaborating with engineering management, and much more.
Engineering Chemistry was the 374th most popular major in the 2021-2022 school year. Colleges in the United States reported awarding 33 degrees in this year alone. This year's Best Engineering Chemistry Schools ranking compares 1 of them to identify the best overall programs in the country. Continue reading to check out one of our many unbiased rankings of engineering chemistry programs later in this article.
Engineering Chemistry students should have a strong background in math and science. Previous experience in these fields will help students start using these principles in everyday situations. Strong analytical and deductive reasoning skills will allow students to analyze issues within the engineering field and help create various solutions. Teamwork and communication skills will aid students as they work in teams to observe engineering systems and solve any issues.
Graduates who pursue a career in Engineering Chemistry can expect to work full time, often in a laboratory or office setting. Occasionally, professionals will have to travel to make onsite observations, improve or maintain engineering systems.
Employers place an emphasis on previous relevant experience making internships, summer jobs, or participation in cooperative engineering programs beneficial to students. Some colleges or universities will have summer programs that allow students to travel to other areas of the country or world while learning more about the field.
Although a bachelor's degree will allow for Engineering Chemistry graduates to work entry-level jobs, many will continue their education to receive a master's. This advanced degree along with previous experience will allow professions to perform research and development or possibly attain a higher payer job.
A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required for most engineering chemistry degree programs and many students will need a minimum GPA and SAT/ACT score depending on the school. In addition to these basic engineering chemistry program qualifications, to serve in some engineering chemistry careers, special certification may be required outside of your degree.
There are many different engineering chemistry degree levels. Engineering Chemistry programs offered by schools range from a to a , which is the highest engineering chemistry degree you can get. Different engineering chemistry degrees vary in how long they take.
| Degree | Credit Requirements | Typical Program Length |
|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree | 60-70 credits | 2 years |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 120 credits | 4 years |
| Master’s Degree | 50-70 credits | 1-3 years |
| Doctorate | Program required coursework including thesis or dissertation | At least 4 years |
A bachelor's degree is the most common level of education achieved by those in careers related to engineering chemistry, with approximately 50.0% of workers getting one. People currently working in careers related to engineering chemistry tend obtained the following education levels.
| Level of Education | Percentage of Workers |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | 54.4% |
| Master’s Degree | 18.3% |
| Doctoral Degree | 15.6% |
| Post-Baccalaureate Certificate | 3.8% |
| Post-Doctoral Training | 2.6% |
98.6% of engineering chemistry workers have at least a bachelor's. View the chart below to get an idea of what degree level most of those in engineering chemistry careers have.
This of course varies depending on which engineering chemistry career you choose.
Graduates with a degree in Engineering Chemistry work in a variety of locations. Since engineering is a large part of many industries, graduates have the ability to go into many different professions. They are equipped with the skills to employ chemistry to solve engineering problems, making their skills useful in fields such as architecture, engineering, chemical manufacturing, medical manufacturing, and scientific research.
Since the demand for engineering chemists varies depending on the demand for certain products, employment in certain industries may be higher than others.
Want a job when you graduate with your engineering chemistry degree? Engineering Chemistry careers are expected to grow 7.1% between 2016 and 2026.
The following options are some of the most in-demand careers related to engineering chemistry.
| Occupation Name | Projected Jobs | Expected Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Architectural and Engineering Managers | 190,000 | 5.5% |
| Engineers | 141,000 | 6.4% |
| Engineering Professors | 54,600 | 14.7% |
| Chemical Engineers | 35,100 | 7.3% |
As you might expect, salaries for engineering chemistry graduates vary depending on the level of education that was acquired.
Salaries for engineering chemistry graduates can vary widely by the occupation you choose as well. The following table shows the top highest paying careers engineering chemistry grads often go into.
| Occupation Name | Median Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Architectural and Engineering Managers | $148,970 |
| Chemical Engineers | $114,470 |
| Engineering Professors | $113,680 |
| Engineers | $99,410 |
With over 4 different engineering chemistry degree programs to choose from, finding the best fit for you can be a challenge. Fortunately you have come to the right place. We have analyzed all of these schools to come up with hundreds of unbiased engineering chemistry school rankings to help you with this.
One of 41 majors within the Engineering area of study, Engineering Chemistry has other similar majors worth exploring.
| Major | Annual Graduates |
|---|---|
| Engineering Chemistry | 33 |
| Related Major | Annual Graduates |
|---|---|
| Mechanical Engineering | 44,794 |
| Electrical Engineering | 26,528 |
| Civil Engineering | 20,655 |
| Computer Engineering | 16,954 |
| Biomedical Engineering | 13,222 |
