University of Michigan

What you'll study

The degree combines the core chemical engineering curriculum with targeted coursework and practical work in electrochemical systems. Core topics include transport phenomena, chemical reaction engineering, thermodynamics, process dynamics and control, separations and materials science. Integrated laboratory and computational modules build hands-on skills in experimental design, data analysis and process simulation.

• Electrochemical fundamentals: physical electrochemistry, electrode kinetics, double-layer theory and electrochemical measurement techniques.
• Energy conversion and storage: battery chemistry, fuel-cell technology, electrolytic hydrogen production, and design of electrochemical reactors.
• Materials for electrochemical devices: electrode and electrolyte materials, corrosion and degradation, solid-state ionics and thin-film processing.
• Modelling and control: multi-physics modelling of coupled transport and reaction, ageing models for devices, and process control for electrochemical systems.
• Design and capstone: multi-term senior design project with industry- or faculty-sponsored problems, often including prototype testing and scale-up considerations.
• Electives and research: advanced laboratory courses, elective modules in renewable energy systems, materials characterisation, catalysis, and opportunities for supervised undergraduate research.

Entry requirements

Admission to the College of Engineering is competitive. Applicants are expected to have a strong background in mathematics (including calculus), chemistry and physics from high school. Typical application materials include formal transcripts, academic references or teacher recommendations, and a personal statement outlining interest in engineering and electrochemical topics.

For transfer applicants or those with prior college study, successful applicants usually present college-level calculus, general chemistry and physics courses. The department also values evidence of practical experience such as research projects, internships or relevant extracurricular activities.

Career prospects

Graduates with an electrochemical engineering focus are in demand across sectors involved in energy conversion, storage and materials. Common career paths include:

• Battery and energy-storage development for automotive and stationary applications.
• Fuel-cell design and hydrogen production via electrolysis.
• Electrochemical process engineering for chemical manufacturing and water treatment.
• Materials development and failure analysis (corrosion, coatings, electrode materials).
• Semiconductor and advanced manufacturing roles involving electrochemical deposition and etching.
• Research and development in national laboratories, start-ups or pursuit of graduate study (MSc/PhD) in electrochemical engineering, materials science or related fields.

Why study at University of Michigan

The University of Michigan offers a robust chemical engineering programme with extensive opportunities to work at the intersection of electrochemistry, materials and energy. Students benefit from access to modern laboratories, computational resources and interdisciplinary collaborations across energy, materials science and mechanical engineering.

Located in a region with strong connections to the automotive and energy industries, students can engage with industry partners through internships, capstone projects and co-operative research. Faculty active in electrochemical and energy research supervise undergraduate projects, and formal and informal pathways exist for students to participate in funded research and entrepreneurship programmes.