Program Overview

The chemical engineering degree at the University of Kansas (KU) equips students with the knowledge and skills to excel in industries such as pharmaceuticals, energy, advanced materials, and environmental systems. This Bachelor of Science program builds a strong foundation in chemistry, physics, mathematics, and engineering analysis, preparing students to solve complex, real-world problems in both established and emerging sectors of chemical engineering science.

KU’s chemical engineering major integrates theory with application through a carefully sequenced curriculum. Students complete core coursework in material and energy balances, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, chemical reaction engineering, and process design. Laboratory experiences and team-based design projects reinforce classroom learning, ensuring graduates of this chemical engineering bachelor degree are prepared to design, analyze, and improve chemical processes and systems.

One of the distinguishing features of KU’s degree in chemical engineering is the ability to pursue focused areas of study aligned with career goals, tailoring studies toward high-demand technical sectors. Concentrations available within the program include:

  • Biomedical: Applies chemical engineering principles to drug delivery, biomaterials, and medical device innovation.
  • Data Science: Integrates data analytics, modeling, and computational tools into chemical process design and optimization.
  • Environmental: Focuses on sustainability, pollution prevention, and environmentally responsible process engineering.
  • Materials Science: Explores the structure, properties, and processing of advanced materials.
  • Premedical: Prepares students for medical or health-related professional programs while completing the core engineering curriculum.
  • Petroleum Engineering: Combines chemical engineering fundamentals with petroleum production, reservoir processes, and energy systems.

Hands-on learning is central to the chemical engineering degree experience. Students gain experience in modern laboratories, pilot-scale systems, and collaborative design environments. Capstone design projects simulate professional engineering practice, requiring teams to address open-ended challenges in safety, sustainability, economics, and process performance. Many students also participate in chemical engineering internships, cooperative education experiences, or undergraduate research, strengthening their résumés before graduation.

Learn more about KU

Undergraduate

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For more information about the program, visit the program page below.

Chemical Engineering, BS

KU School of Engineering

The Bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering is part of the School of Engineering, where new technologies are developed to solve the problems facing the world.

Bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the chemical engineering degree program will be able to:

  • Apply Engineering Principles: Demonstrate mastery of mathematics, chemistry, physics, and core chemical engineering concepts in solving complex problems.
  • Design and Analyze Systems: Design chemical processes that meet specified needs while considering safety, sustainability, economic, and societal factors.
  • Conduct Experiments and Interpret Data: Develop and execute experiments, analyze results, and apply engineering judgment to draw conclusions.
  • Communicate Effectively: Convey technical information clearly through written reports, presentations, and collaborative teamwork.
  • Practice Ethical and Professional Responsibility: Recognize professional obligations and make informed, ethical decisions in engineering contexts.
  • Engage in Lifelong Learning: Adapt to emerging technologies and evolving challenges within chemical engineering science.

What Careers Are Possible with a Bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering?

A degree in chemical engineering prepares graduates for diverse technical and leadership roles across industries. Career pathways include opportunities in industries such as:

  • Pharmaceuticals: Designing and scaling drug manufacturing systems.
  • Energy and Petroleum: Improving refining processes, renewable energy systems, and sustainable fuel production.
  • Environmental Engineering: Developing technologies that reduce emissions and improve resource efficiency.
  • Advanced Manufacturing and Materials: Creating high-performance materials for aerospace, electronics, and consumer products.
  • Biotechnology: Engineering bioprocesses for food, medical, and industrial applications.

According to data from Lightcast, professionals in chemical engineering roles demonstrate strong earning potential. The median chemical engineer salary in the United States is competitive, with compensation varying by experience, region, and sector. Many graduates secure entry level chemical engineering jobs in process engineering, production engineering, quality control, and technical consulting.

Tuition and Financial Aid

KU offers competitive tuition rates for the chemical engineering bachelor degree program. To assist students financially, various options are available, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. For detailed information on tuition costs and financial aid opportunities, visit the KU Financial Aid page.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the degree in chemical engineering at KU requires meeting general university freshman and transfer admission standards. This includes:

Freshmen

  • 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
  • Demonstrate mathematics preparedness by:
    • Obtaining a mathematics ACT score of 22+ (or math SAT score of 540+), OR
    • Achieving a B or better in college algebra or a more advanced mathematics course, OR
    • Achieving a C or better in a high school calculus course; OR
    • Earning credit via IB or AP credit for the above-mentioned courses in accordance with KU placement credit requirements; OR
    • Achieving at minimum a qualifying score for MATH 104 on the ALEKS mathematics placement exam.

Transfers

  • Earn a grade of C- or better in MATH 125 (Calculus I, or its direct equivalent), AND
  • Earn grades of C or better in math, science, and engineering courses applicable to the engineering degree.

For detailed admission requirements, visit the School of Engineering.

Student Life and Learning Experience

Students in the chemical engineering major benefit from a collaborative academic environment supported by research-active faculty. Undergraduate research opportunities span areas such as renewable energy systems, nanotechnology, biomaterials, and sustainable process development. These experiences deepen understanding of chemical engineering science and strengthen preparation for graduate study or industry roles.

Professional development is enhanced through student organizations, technical competitions, leadership roles, and networking events. Participation in chemical engineering internships and co-op programs provides valuable exposure to industrial practice and strengthens pathways into entry level chemical engineering jobs after graduation.

Bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering Sample Courses

The chemical engineering degree curriculum includes foundational and advanced coursework such as:

  • Material and Energy Balances
  • Chemical Engineering Kinetics and Reactor Design
  • Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics
  • Introduction to Process Dynamics and Control
  • Process Safety and Sustainability

For a comprehensive list of course offerings and degree requirements, refer to the KU Catalog.

Bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering Frequently Asked Questions

When should I apply?

Applications are open and accepted on a rolling basis.

How long will it take to complete the degree?

Students typically complete this degree in four years.

Contact Information

KU School of Engineering studyengineering@ku.edu 785-864-3881

Accreditation & Notes

The Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the commission’s General Criteria and Program Criteria for Chemical, Biochemical, Biomolecular, and Similarly Named Engineering Programs.

A Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering is the official degree awarded, and references to “chemical engineering degree” or similar terms are used for clarity and student understanding.