Studies
Best Online Chemical Engineering Degree – 2024
Seeking the Optimal Online Chemical Engineering Degree
When searching for the ideal online chemical engineering degree, it’s important to recognize that what suits one student might not necessarily suit another. Finding a school aligned with your career and personal aspirations is key, ensuring the program fits seamlessly into your current lifestyle.
To compile our list, we meticulously evaluated key factors contributing to top-quality education. Considerations included tuition costs, student satisfaction, and program reputation, among others. These selected online degrees offer flexibility and affordability, empowering you to pursue a high-quality education on your own terms.
Prior to unveiling our list of premier online chemical engineering programs, we focused solely on highlighting the finest options. This encompassed bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral online degrees, ensuring inclusion of the most suitable choices.
Consequently, our list not only showcases schools with exceptional programs but also those that seamlessly accommodate your busy schedule. Consider these top options as you embark on the journey towards your desired career path.
Understanding Online Chemical Engineering Degree Programs
Online chemical engineering degrees are available at various levels, including bachelor’s, master’s, and certificate programs.
A bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering is the minimum requirement for entry-level employment. Graduates can then pursue advanced leadership roles by obtaining a master’s degree.
Additionally, certificate programs provide an opportunity for skill enhancement, complementing a bachelor’s degree or serving as a stepping stone towards further education.
Bachelor’s Degrees in Chemical Engineering Online
An online bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering typically spans four to six years and covers a comprehensive curriculum, including calculus, fluid mechanics, and quantum chemistry.
Admission requirements usually include a high school diploma or equivalent, along with additional prerequisites such as standardized test scores and letters of recommendation.
Upon completion, graduates are equipped for entry-level positions as chemical engineers across various industries.
Master’s Degrees in Chemical Engineering Online
Several public and private institutions offer online master’s programs in chemical engineering, catering to students seeking advanced roles in sectors like petrochemical processing and biotechnology.
Prospective students are encouraged to explore our rankings, considering factors such as tuition rates and alumni salaries.
Doctoral Degrees in Chemical Engineering Online
While fully online doctoral programs in chemical engineering are currently unavailable, select universities in the United States offer traditional programs for doctoral candidates.
Applicants typically need a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering or a related field, along with GRE scores and research experience.
Certificate Programs in Chemical Engineering Online
Chemical engineers seeking to augment their skills can pursue online graduate certificate programs, which may also serve as a pathway towards further education.
Courses within these programs encompass advanced topics in fluid mechanics, chemical kinetics, and mass transfer, among others.
Despite the lack of fully online programs, the availability of chemical engineering degrees online has expanded, encompassing bachelor’s to master’s levels.
Determining Suitability of an Online Chemical Engineering Degree Program
While online chemical engineering degrees offer flexibility, they may not be suitable for everyone. These programs are especially beneficial for individuals unable to attend on-campus classes due to time constraints or geographical limitations.
Prospective students should assess their ability to thrive in an online learning environment, as it requires self-discipline and motivation. While interactions with instructors are possible, students must be prepared for independent study.
Admission Requirements for Online Chemical Engineering Degrees
Admission criteria for online chemical engineering programs closely mirror traditional pathways, requiring submission of SAT/ACT scores, transcripts, and letters of recommendation.
Prospective master’s students are typically required to provide GRE scores and may need recommendations from university professors or employers.
It’s essential for students to adhere to campus deadlines and requirements, ensuring a smooth application process.
Career Opportunities with an Online Chemical Engineering Degree
Graduates of online chemical engineering programs can pursue diverse career paths across various industries, including manufacturing, biotechnology, and energy.
Roles may involve research, process optimization, and specialization in areas such as biological engineering or materials science.
Professional advancement in chemical engineering often hinges on experience and higher education, with opportunities for licensure and specialization.
Ranking Methodology for Online Chemical Engineering Programs
Our rankings are guided by several key factors, including tuition fees, accreditation, and the number of programs offered.
Affordability, accreditation status, and program diversity are paramount considerations, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of each institution.
By adhering to these rigorous standards, we aim to assist prospective students in making informed decisions regarding their education and future career prospects.
#11. Columbia University in the City of New York
Tuition Fees: $2,104 per point (Credit Hour)
Number of Programs: 1
Duration: 2-3 years
Columbia University in the City of New York offers one online course in Chemical Engineering, comprising the online masters and certificate program.
The university is known as the first online engineering program for graduates and the first online curriculum for veterans by US News and World Report 2018. Columbia Video Network (CVN) offers fully accredited master, non-Diploma, and certificate programs in engineering and science applied.
To be eligible for the online course, graduate students must surely meet some specific requirements. Also, they have to make provision of some important documents including recommendation letters; GRE, TOEFL, or IELTS test results; transcripts, and an application.
Above all, no thesis is required for this top online master’s in the chemical engineering program, but some students opt to complete a research project.
**#10. University of Southern California**
**Tuition Fees:** $2,075 per credit for part-time enrollment
**Number of Programs:** 1
**Duration:** Full-time enrollment: 1 1⁄2 – 2 Years; Part-time enrollment: 2 1⁄2 – 3 1⁄2 Years
The University of Southern California provides an online master’s degree program in Chemical Engineering, catering to the needs of individuals seeking advanced education in this field. Core courses cover topics such as chemical engineering kinetics, modeling and analysis, and thermodynamics. Elective courses offer specialization in technical design, materials engineering, and environmental engineering, among others. Graduates find employment opportunities in various sectors, including tissue engineering, pharmaceuticals, and environmental agencies.
**#9. Lehigh University**
**Tuition Fees:** $1,500 per credit
**Number of Programs:** 1
**Duration:** 3 years
Lehigh University offers an online master’s degree program in Chemical Engineering. The curriculum includes fundamental courses like thermodynamic chemical engineering, transport processes, and chemical reaction engineering. This program caters to individuals with a bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or relevant fields. Elective courses, such as mass transfer and process control, enhance specialization. Students can opt for a double MBA and engineering program. The program typically spans three years.
**#8. Villanova University**
**Tuition Fees:** $1,475 per credit
**Number of Programs:** 1
**Duration:** 3 years
Villanova University presents an online master’s degree program in Chemical Engineering, offering flexibility for both part-time and full-time enrollment. Core courses cover thermodynamics, transport phenomena, and chemical kinetics, while elective courses delve into areas like separation processes and chemical engineering reactions. Students may undertake optional projects in place of elective classes. The program typically spans three years.
**#7. University of Virginia**
**Tuition Fees:** $1,146 per credit hour
**Number of Programs:** 1
**Duration:** 24 semester hours
The University of Virginia offers an online master’s degree program in Chemical Engineering via its Virginia Engineering Online (VEO) platform. Core courses include advanced thermodynamics and chemical reaction engineering, supplemented by electives like polymer engineering and biochemical engineering. The program blends synchronous and asynchronous elements for an enriched learning experience.
**#6. University of Illinois-Chicago**
**Tuition Fees:** $859.00 per credit hour
**Number of Programs:** 2
**Duration:** 2 years
The University of Illinois-Chicago provides a master’s degree and certificate program in Chemical Engineering online. The 36-credit master’s program includes courses in engineering law and management, with concentrations available in renewable energy technologies and microelectronics. Graduate certificates in law and technology management are also offered. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills development and can be completed within two years.
**#5. Kansas State University**
**Tuition Fees:** $863.90 per credit hour
**Number of Programs:** 1
**Duration:** 2 years
Kansas State University offers an online master’s degree program in Chemical Engineering designed for professionals with prior education in the field. Core courses cover topics such as chemical reaction engineering and transport phenomena, with elective options including materials processing and bioseparations. Graduates can pursue careers across various industries, including manufacturing and biotechnology.
**#4. Auburn University**
**Tuition Fees:** $949 Per Credit Hour
**Number of Programs:** 1
**Duration:** 10-15 weeks terms
Auburn University’s online master’s degree program in Chemical Engineering emphasizes engineering design and practice. Core courses cover thermodynamic engineering and chemical engineering principles, complemented by electives such as multivariate calculus and heat and mass transfer principles. The program is open to individuals with a bachelor’s degree in engineering or related fields and typically lasts for several terms.
**#3. Missouri University of Science and Technology**
**Tuition Fees:** $1,200 per Credit Hour
**Number of Programs:** 1
**Duration:** 1 year
The Missouri University of Science and Technology offers an accelerated online certificate program in Chemical Engineering. Core courses include reactor design and engineering thermodynamics, with electives available in areas like process safety and plant-wide process control. The program culminates in an industry-oriented project, providing practical experience to graduates.
**#2. North Carolina State University**
**Tuition Fees:** $630.56 per Credit Hour
**Number of Programs:** 1
**Duration:** 3-5 years
North Carolina State University’s online master’s degree program in Chemical Engineering offers flexibility and asynchronous learning. Core courses cover topics like chemical reaction engineering and process modeling, allowing students to develop expertise in their chosen field. Graduates can complete the program within three to five years, tailored to fit their schedules.
**#1. Stanford University**
**Tuition Fees:** $1,352 per unit
**Number of Programs:** 2
**Duration:** 3-5 years
Stanford University offers both a master’s and certificate program in Chemical Engineering online. The master’s program integrates chemical engineering with other engineering disciplines, providing a comprehensive education. The certificate program offers specialized skills and tools for success in the field. Both programs can be completed within three to five years, accommodating the needs of working professionals.
**Online Chemical Engineering Degree FAQs**
Online chemical engineering degrees are available at various levels, including bachelor’s, master’s, and certificate programs. Bachelor’s degrees provide entry-level employment opportunities, while master’s degrees offer advanced leadership roles. Some programs may require on-campus laboratory courses. Students can also access free online chemical engineering courses through platforms like OpenCourseWare. Online degrees are suitable for individuals unable to attend campus classes due to time or distance constraints.