Thinking about a career change to ChemE

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on transitioning from a career in chemistry to chemical engineering (ChemE) after a layoff from a pharmaceutical company. The individual holds a BS in Chemistry and Mathematics and is considering graduate school for ChemE. Key undergraduate courses required for this transition include Intro Thermodynamics, Process Engineering (Mass/Energy Balances), Advanced Thermodynamics, and Momentum/Heat/Mass Transfer. Additional general engineering courses such as Statics, Dynamics, Materials Science, and Electrical Systems may also be necessary, depending on the specific requirements of the chosen school.

PREREQUISITES
  • BS in Chemistry
  • BS in Mathematics
  • Understanding of Thermodynamics
  • Familiarity with Process Engineering concepts
NEXT STEPS
  • Research specific undergraduate course requirements for ChemE at targeted universities
  • Explore financial aid options for graduate studies in ChemE
  • Investigate the curriculum for Advanced Thermodynamics in ChemE programs
  • Learn about the fundamentals of Process Engineering and Mass/Energy Balances
USEFUL FOR

Individuals considering a career change to chemical engineering, especially those with a background in chemistry and mathematics, as well as students evaluating graduate school options in ChemE.

gravenewworld
Messages
1,129
Reaction score
27
So I have a BS in Chemistry and a BS in mathematics and just have been recently laid off from my job as a chemist at a pharmaceutical company. I have been thinking about going back to graduate school for ChemE. It seems right up my alley. The only thing is that I really don't want to have to go back and take out more student loans to take undergrad ChemE courses if I don't have to. Graduate school for ChemE should be free like it is for all the sciences right? If I were to go back to school for ChemE could anyone please fill me in as to how many and what undergrad courses I would have to take move into ChemE?
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
This is a question that would be best answered by the school you are looking at.
 
hmm... I suspect you would need some/all of the following..

Intro Thermodynamics
Process Engineering (Mass/Energy Balances)
ChemE Thermo (Advanced Thermodynamics)
Momentum/Heat/Mass Transfer (This would probably be covered in 2 courses, just depends on how the school divides it up).

These are all bread-and-butter courses for ChemE. You may be required to take some general engineering courses as well. For instance, Statics, Dynamics, Materials Science, Electrical Systems, etc.

I guess it all depends on the school though.
 

Similar threads

ChemE graduate school without engineering major?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
Thinking about switching out of chemE advice wanted please
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
9K
Admissions Is it too late to pursue a career in physics at 32 years old?
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
3K
Chemistry Level of statistics required in Process Chemistry and ChemE
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Working in the Space industry OR Nuclear/Solar energy as a ChemE?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Physics Is returning to school sensible for me?
  • · Replies 33 ·
2
Replies
33
Views
6K
Can I pursue an MS in astrophysics with a BS in studio art?
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Other 2 years for MS Eng or Longer for MS Physics? Science Entrepreneur Qs
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
Should I Pursue a Second Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering?
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
Admissions Advice for a radiation therapist moving towards medical physics
  • · Replies 29 ·
Replies
29
Views
4K