Widener University

What you'll study

This programme builds a core of advanced chemical engineering fundamentals and then applies them to electrochemical systems. You study electrochemical kinetics and thermodynamics, electrode and interface science, transport phenomena in ionic and porous media, and materials for energy storage and conversion.

• Core modules: advanced transport phenomena, reaction engineering, and process modelling as applied to electrochemical processes.
• Electrochemical specialisms: electrochemical kinetics and mechanisms, battery and fuel cell engineering, corrosion science and prevention, electroplating and electrosynthesis.
• Materials and characterization: electrode materials, solid electrolytes, surface analysis techniques and materials degradation.
• Laboratory and modelling: hands-on electrochemical laboratory work, cell testing, impedance spectroscopy, and numerical simulation of electrochemical systems.
• Project or thesis: a substantial research project or thesis supervised by faculty, often linked to local industry problems or interdisciplinary collaborations.

The programme is offered with flexible course delivery to accommodate full-time and part-time students, and typically combines lecture, laboratory and project-based learning.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, materials science, chemistry, or a closely related engineering or physical science discipline. Admission decisions are based on the overall academic record and preparedness for graduate-level engineering study.

• Academic transcript demonstrating satisfactory undergraduate preparation in core topics such as thermodynamics, transport phenomena and reaction engineering.
• A current CV or résumé outlining relevant academic, research or professional experience.
• A personal statement describing your motivation, research interests and career goals.
• References from academic or professional referees who can comment on your potential for graduate study.

Applicants whose background is acceptable but missing key prerequisites may be offered conditional admission with designated bridging courses. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for technical and leadership roles across sectors where electrochemical technologies are central. Typical career paths include:

• Battery and energy storage design, testing and manufacturing
• Fuel cell and hydrogen systems engineering and development
• Corrosion control, materials protection and failure analysis in oil & gas, maritime and infrastructure sectors
• Electroplating, surface finishing and specialty chemicals industries
• Research and development in industrial laboratories, national research centres and universities
• Process engineering, quality assurance and technical consulting roles related to electrochemical processes

The programme’s laboratory training and project work are designed to make graduates attractive to employers and to support progression to doctoral study for those pursuing an academic or research career.

Why study at Widener University

Widener offers a small-programme environment with close faculty supervision and strong emphasis on applied, hands-on training. Students benefit from modern electrochemistry and materials laboratories and opportunities to work on industry-relevant projects under faculty who have both academic and industrial experience.

• Small class sizes and personalised mentoring for technical and career development.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration across engineering, materials and chemistry areas to address real-world electrochemical challenges.
• Proximity to a large industrial and research community, providing potential internship, partnership and employment opportunities.
• Flexible study options to accommodate working professionals and part-time students.

Together, these features make Widener’s programme suitable for students aiming to advance technical expertise in electrochemical engineering and to transition into industry or further research.