University of Waterloo

Overview

The University of Waterloo offers a PhD in Chemical Engineering, specializing in water-related research. This program emphasizes advanced study and original research in critical areas such as water treatment, transport phenomena, and sustainable water systems. The PhD is designed to develop expertise in the field, preparing graduates for impactful careers in academia, industry, and research institutions.

What you'll study

The PhD program is primarily research-focused, allowing students to work closely with their supervisors to develop a customized study plan. The program typically includes a combination of coursework, research milestones, and the completion of an original thesis.

Typical components

• Research proposal and planning: Define the research question, methodology, and anticipated outcomes.
• Supervision and research milestones: Engage in regular meetings and progress reviews to guide thesis development.
• Coursework (as required): Select graduate-level courses to enhance knowledge in chemical engineering and water-related topics.
• Thesis: Produce an original research thesis that contributes new insights to the field.
• Scholarly communication: Prepare presentations and publishable research outputs to share findings with the academic community.

Water-focused research areas (examples)

• Water and wastewater treatment processes
• Transport phenomena in porous media and membranes
• Process modeling, simulation, and optimization
• Advanced characterization and experimental methods
• Sustainable and low-impact water systems

Entry requirements

Applicants must demonstrate a strong academic background in chemical engineering or a related discipline, typically including a relevant thesis-based graduate degree.

• Master’s background (usual requirement): A minimum standing in an appropriate Master’s program is commonly expected.
• GRE/GMAT: No specific GRE or GMAT requirement is indicated for this program.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD program in Chemical Engineering specializing in water can pursue various career paths in academia, government agencies, environmental consulting, and industry. They may work on innovative solutions for water treatment, sustainable water system design, and research initiatives aimed at addressing global water challenges.