University of Tennessee

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced chemical engineering core topics with specialised coursework and laboratory experience in electrochemical systems. Students take courses in transport phenomena and reaction engineering as a foundation, then move into electives and modules that focus specifically on electrochemical science and engineering.

• Core subjects: advanced transport phenomena, reaction kinetics and reactor design, thermodynamics for electrochemical systems.
• Electrochemical specialisms: electrochemical kinetics and mechanisms, electrode and electrolyte materials, batteries and energy storage, fuel cells and electrolyzers, corrosion science and protection, electrochemical sensors and separations.
• Modelling and characterisation: multi‑physics modelling of electrochemical devices, mass and charge transport, impedance spectroscopy, microstructural and surface characterisation techniques.
• Laboratory and practical work: hands‑on experiments in cell assembly, cycling and performance testing for batteries and fuel cells, corrosion testing, electrochemical synthesis and scale‑up considerations.
• Research project or thesis: students typically complete a substantial research project or thesis under the supervision of departmental faculty. Projects often address materials development, device prototyping, modelling, or process integration.
• Programme structure: the programme is available with thesis and non‑thesis options. Coursework provides advanced technical breadth while the thesis option emphasises original research and publication potential. Interdisciplinary electives allow integration with materials science, mechanical engineering, and environmental engineering topics.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, chemical technology, materials science, mechanical engineering, or a closely related discipline from an accredited institution. Admissions take into account academic performance, strength of preparatory coursework (particularly in thermodynamics, transport phenomena, and electrochemistry or physical chemistry), and research potential.

• Academic record: competitive undergraduate GPA and relevant coursework in core engineering fundamentals.
• Supporting documents: statement of purpose outlining research interests and career goals, curriculum vitae, and at least two academic or professional references.
• Standardised tests: some applicants may submit GRE scores if they have them; policies on GRE consideration can vary and applicants should consult the department for current guidance.
• English language: international applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency via an accepted English test or qualifying exemption.
• Research fit: for the thesis option, applicants are encouraged to identify potential faculty advisors whose research aligns with their electrochemical interests prior to application.

Career prospects

Graduates with a master’s in Electrochemical Engineering are prepared for technical and leadership roles across the energy, materials, and process sectors. The programme combines hands‑on laboratory skills, modelling ability and process understanding sought by employers.

• Industry roles: battery and energy storage engineer, fuel cell and electrolyzer developer, corrosion engineer, process development engineer, materials engineer for electrodes and electrolytes.
• Research and national labs: positions in industrial R&D centres, national laboratories and consortia working on advanced energy technologies and materials.
• Environmental and water treatment: roles designing electrochemical treatment processes and sensors.
• Consulting and scale‑up: technical consulting for electrochemical process integration, scale‑up and manufacturing optimisation.
• Further study and academia: the thesis route supports progression to doctoral study for those pursuing careers in academic research or advanced technical leadership.

Why study at University of Tennessee

The University of Tennessee offers electrochemical engineering students access to experienced faculty working at the intersection of electrochemistry, materials and energy systems, and close research partnerships with national laboratories and industry. These collaborations provide opportunities for applied research projects, access to state‑of‑the‑art instrumentation, and pathways to technology translation.

• Research links: strong collaborative relationships with nearby national research facilities and industry partners enhance applied research and internship opportunities.
• Facilities: well‑equipped laboratories for battery testing, fuel cell evaluation, materials characterisation and electrochemical analysis support both coursework and thesis research.
• Interdisciplinary environment: students can draw on expertise across materials science, mechanical engineering, and environmental engineering to broaden project scope and impact.
• Career support: university career services and engineering‑specific employer engagement help connect graduates with industry, national labs and research roles.