Chemical Engineering Specializations

In summary, the conversation discusses the speaker's interest in pursuing a Masters degree in various fields related to chemical engineering, including Process Systems Engineering, Advanced Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Nanotech, Biotech/Bioprocess Engineering, Catalysis, Chemistry, and Nuclear Engineering. The speaker is unsure about whether to continue working in industry or pursue a Phd and eventually get into research. They ask about which field would be most useful and offer more opportunities, as well as if there are any other options for a Chemical Engineer. The speaker expresses equal interest in polymers, catalysts, and therapeutic drugs and mentions attending a leadership seminar where successful alumni had only a Bachelor's degree. The conversation concludes with the suggestion that the best prospects on the speaker
  • #1
TheCatalyst
9
0
I am planning on doing a Masters degree, and my current options are:

Process Systems Engineering, Advanced Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Nanotech, Biotech/Bioprocess Engineering, Catalysis, Chemistry or Nuclear Engineering (Very unlikely).

So I am wondering...

If I am not yet sure if i want to keep working in industry or to go pursue a Phd, and then eventually get into research.

Which of them are the most useful?
Which could lead to more and better opportunities?
Are there some other better options for a Chemical Engineer?

I find all of them very interesting, and I can not decide...
 
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  • #2
I'm working on my undergrad for chemical engineering/materials science and engineering, and working on a specialty in nano/molecular engineering. I am equally interested in polymers, catalysts, and therapeutic drugs.

I took a leadership seminar featuring alumni who had found successful careers, but almost all of them ended with the BSchE. I don't know if that has any significance to you, but it is implied that bachelor's opens the doorway, and if you want to increase your expertise, to return later and specialize.

Aside from that, the best prospects on your list are (in order):
Process systems E, Materials science (complements the chemical concepts very nicely), and advanced chem E (better if focused in a proven field). More novel are biotech/bioprocess which is still on the horizon as far as economic viability, and similarly nanotech (but is a very promising field from what I've experienced).
 

What are the different specializations in chemical engineering?

Some common specializations in chemical engineering include process engineering, materials engineering, environmental engineering, biotechnology, and process control.

What is process engineering in chemical engineering?

Process engineering involves designing, optimizing, and managing the processes used in chemical plants to produce various products. This can include developing new processes, improving existing processes, and troubleshooting issues in production.

What is materials engineering in chemical engineering?

Materials engineering focuses on the development and use of materials in chemical processes and products. This can include developing new materials, improving existing materials, and researching the properties and behavior of materials in different environments.

What is environmental engineering in chemical engineering?

Environmental engineering in chemical engineering involves designing and implementing processes and technologies to minimize the environmental impact of chemical production. This can include waste management, pollution control, and sustainable practices.

What is biotechnology in chemical engineering?

Biotechnology in chemical engineering involves using biological processes and organisms to produce chemicals, fuels, and other products. This can include genetic engineering, fermentation, and other techniques to manipulate biological systems for industrial purposes.

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