Transform Matter, Transform the World.
Chemical engineers combine chemistry, biology, physics, computer science and math with engineering principles to develop materials, energy, and solutions to improve the world. Chemical engineers are in great demand because so many industries depend on the chemical or physical transformation of matter into valuable products. They are the inventors of nylon fibers, artificial heart valves, nasal drug deliveries, and efficient processes to clean our environment, to name a few.
Chemical engineers work in industries that affect daily life—food science, petroleum, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, manufacturing, medicine, nuclear energy, and sustainable energy—while also using data science to push the boundaries of the field. Some chemical engineers are even exploring beyond the Earth and its resources, discovering how to mine elements from the moon.
Chemical engineering students can choose from two additional concentrations:
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Bio-Molecular Engineering combines knowledge of biological processes and chemical engineering knowledge. Students interested in biological areas of chemical engineering, such as medicine, pharmaceuticals, biofuels, bio-remediation, etc., should consider enrolling in this concentration.
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Energy and the Environment teaches students ways to protect the environment, support economic prosperity across society, safeguard human health, and overcome the challenges facing use of batteries for electric cars, nuclear fuel production and shipping, solar sourcing, biomass-derived fuels and the reimagining of wastes as resources. You will learn all aspects of the coming global transition to greener energy.
Tech’s chemical engineering degree also provides students a path to medical school. Plus, with Tech’s unprecedented opportunity to conduct research as early as freshman year with award-winning faculty, our graduates are well-prepared for graduate school.
Ready to Work.
Because Tennessee Tech has a hands-on, lab-integrated curriculum, our chemical engineers
are in high-demand. Equipped with real-world experience through undergraduate research
opportunities, myriad co-ops and internships, and project-based work, Tech grads are
ready to hit the ground running—something our employer partners say Tech engineering
is renowned for. During the past decade our students have been regularly employed
by Cummins Filtration, Eastman Chemical, DENSO, General Electric, and Georgia Gulf.
Transform the World.
Part of becoming a chemical engineer is learning to be as comfortable in teams as
you are separating molecules in the lab. Student organizations can give you an opportunity
to work with others in your major or across disciplines on fun projects while also
networking with future employers, faculty experts, and industry leaders. The chemical
engineering department has an active AICHE (American Institute of Chemical Engineers)
chapter. This group is very involved on campus and around the area with service work
and fundraisers. It is run by the students, for the students. The Chemical Engineering
department also has its own own tutoring program. There are many student organizations
and professional societies to join at Tennessee Tech, including Chemical Engineering.
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