Chemical Engineering
The Chemical Engineering Master of Science program at the University of Caltech offers a rigorous and research-focused education designed to strengthen students’ understanding of the fundamental principles governing chemical processes and advanced material systems. The curriculum provides integrated training in thermodynamics, transport phenomena, reaction engineering, and process design, allowing learners to interpret and model chemical systems with scientific accuracy. Through problem-solving exercises and analytical coursework, students gain the ability to evaluate complex chemical operations with technical precision and apply mathematical frameworks to real-world engineering challenges. This structure ensures that graduates develop a solid foundation for contributing to modern innovations in chemical engineering and related industries.
Students also benefit from Caltech’s interdisciplinary research environment, where collaboration between chemistry, materials science, biology, and engineering strengthens both theoretical and practical learning. Access to state-of-the-art laboratories and advanced analytical tools enables students to conduct experiments, analyze chemical behavior, and work on projects that reflect contemporary scientific priorities. By engaging with faculty active in high-impact research, students enhance their understanding of chemical systems, develop strong laboratory competencies, and gain the confidence to explore new technologies in fields such as catalysis, biotechnology, and energy materials. This combined approach prepares graduates for impactful roles in chemical engineering and related scientific domains.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Chemical Engineering
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 December 2025
- Location: California Institute of Technology (Caltech), United States
- Field of Study: Chemical Engineering
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
• Semester 1 – Foundations in Chemical Engineering
- Advanced Thermodynamics
- Fluid Mechanics and Transport Phenomena
- Chemical Reaction Engineering
- Mathematical and Computational Methods for Chemical Systems
• Semester 2 – Applied Chemical Systems & Research
- Process Design and Systems Engineering
- Materials and Molecular Engineering
- Chemical Kinetics and Reactor Modeling
- Research Project / Applied Chemical Engineering Study
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are equipped with strong analytical, experimental, and computational skills that prepare them for diverse roles across chemical, materials, and biotechnology industries. Many pursue positions in chemical manufacturing companies, pharmaceutical research, energy technology firms, and materials development laboratories, where the ability to model, optimize, and evaluate chemical processes is essential. Their training enables them to contribute to projects involving reaction design, process simulation, advanced materials synthesis, quality assessment, and large-scale production analysis. Opportunities also exist in environmental engineering sectors, government agencies, and research institutions focused on sustainability, clean energy, and industrial innovation. For those who choose to continue academically, the program forms a strong foundation for PhD studies in chemical engineering or related disciplines, enabling future careers in university research, advanced laboratory work, and scientific leadership.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an excellent option for students seeking a research-intensive and engineering-focused education that strengthens their advanced scientific insight, allowing them to analyze chemical systems with depth and precision. The University of Caltech provides an environment enriched by expert faculty guidance, interdisciplinary collaboration, and access to high-level laboratory facilities where students can explore cutting-edge chemical technologies. The curriculum encourages the development of practical engineering skills through hands-on experimentation, computational modeling, and analytical work that reflects real industrial and scientific practices. Students also gain the flexibility to pursue interests in areas such as materials science, process engineering, catalysis, or molecular systems. With its emphasis on scientific precision, innovation, and engineering depth, this program equips graduates with the expertise needed for impactful careers in the chemical sector or for continued academic advancement through competitive doctoral programs.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 626 395 3000
Email: admissions@caltech.edu
Address: University of Caltech, 1200 East California Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91125, United States
