Vanderbilt University

What you'll study

The programme blends core chemical engineering topics with specialised study in electrochemical science and technology. Core modules typically cover advanced transport phenomena, chemical reaction engineering, thermodynamics, process control and separations. Electrochemical‑focused modules and seminars address electrochemical kinetics, electrode and electrolyte materials, solid‑state ionics, battery and fuel‑cell design, corrosion and surface electrochemistry.

Students choose between research (thesis) and coursework (non‑thesis) routes. The research route involves a sustained project in a faculty laboratory — for example on battery materials, catalyst integration for fuel cells, or electrolyser development — while the coursework route emphasises advanced electives and a design or practicum project. Practical training is delivered through laboratory courses, research rotations, and access to shared facilities for materials characterisation, electrochemical testing and nanofabrication.

• Advanced Transport Phenomena
• Electrochemical Kinetics and Thermodynamics
• Materials for Energy Storage and Conversion
• Reaction Engineering and Reactor Design
• Analytical and Electrochemical Characterisation Techniques
• Advanced Process Control and Systems Engineering
• Laboratory and Research Project or Design Practicum

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering or a closely related STEM discipline with a strong foundation in mathematics, physical chemistry and transport phenomena. Typical application materials include official transcripts, a statement of purpose describing research or career goals, a curriculum vitae, and letters of recommendation (usually two or three). GRE submission may be optional depending on departmental policy; international applicants must also demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests unless exempt.

Admissions consider the overall academic record, quantitative preparation, research or industrial experience, and fit with faculty research interests. Candidates without a chemical engineering degree but with substantial related coursework may be considered, though they may be advised to take prerequisite undergraduate courses.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles across industry, national laboratories and academia. Common career paths include research and development positions in battery and energy storage companies, fuel‑cell and electrolyser manufacturers, corrosion and coatings firms, and process engineering roles in chemical and petrochemical industries. The degree also prepares students for continued graduate study (PhD) in electrochemistry, materials science or chemical engineering.

Specific job titles held by alumni include electrochemical engineer, battery materials scientist, process engineer, R&D engineer, technical project manager and research scientist at national labs. The programme’s emphasis on hands‑on characterisation and device testing is especially valuable for roles that require translation of materials research into practical devices and scaled processes.

Why study at Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt’s Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering department is known for its collaborative, interdisciplinary approach and strong links to research centres working on energy and materials. Students benefit from access to shared facilities for nanoscale characterisation, materials synthesis and electrochemical testing, and from opportunities to work on applied projects with industry partners and national laboratories.

The department offers a relatively small, focused cohort that enables close mentorship from faculty and hands‑on involvement in research. Located in a vibrant, growing city, Vanderbilt provides professional development resources, career services and a network of alumni in energy and advanced materials sectors. The programme is designed to equip students with both the fundamental theory and practical skills needed to address contemporary challenges in electrochemical engineering.