Tennessee Technological University

What you'll study

The programme combines core graduate chemical engineering fundamentals with specialised electrochemical topics. Students typically follow either a thesis (research) or non‑thesis (coursework/project) path. Core coursework covers advanced transport phenomena, chemical and electrochemical thermodynamics, reaction kinetics, process analysis and modelling, and experimental methods for electrochemical systems.

• Advanced Transport Phenomena and Mass Transfer
• Electrochemical Engineering and Electrochemical Reactor Design
• Electrochemical Energy Storage: batteries and supercapacitors
• Fuel Cells and Electrolyser Technologies
• Corrosion Science and Protection
• Materials Characterisation and Surface Analysis
• Computational Methods for Electrochemical Systems (modelling and simulation)
• Laboratory techniques: electrode fabrication, electrochemical testing (potentiostatic/galvanostatic methods), impedance spectroscopy

Thesis students undertake an independent research project under the supervision of a faculty member, producing a written thesis and defence. Non‑thesis students complete an advanced coursework load and typically produce a capstone design project or literature‑based research report.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, materials engineering, mechanical engineering with substantive chemistry, or a closely related discipline from a recognised institution. Strong preparation in thermodynamics, transport phenomena, reaction engineering and undergraduate laboratory experience is expected.

• Academic transcripts demonstrating adequate preparation for graduate study; a competitive undergraduate GPA is required.
• Letters of recommendation (usually two or three) from academic or professional referees familiar with the applicant’s technical abilities.
• A statement of purpose outlining research interests in electrochemical engineering and career objectives.
• Some applicants present prior research or industry experience in electrochemistry, materials, or energy systems — this strengthens applications but is not mandatory.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or approved alternatives; additional documentation for visa compliance will be required.

Specific requirements and supporting documents are available from the university’s graduate admissions office; prospective students are encouraged to contact potential faculty supervisors to discuss research fit before applying.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles in industry, government laboratories and academia where electrochemical engineering expertise is needed. Typical career paths include:

• Battery and energy storage engineer (cell design, testing, scale‑up)
• Fuel cell and hydrogen systems engineer
• Corrosion engineer and materials reliability specialist
• Electrochemical process engineer for electroplating, electrosynthesis or water treatment
• R&D scientist or engineer in materials and surface science
• Process development and scale‑up roles in manufacturing
• Progression to PhD study and academic research or positions at national research laboratories

Many students also gain transferable skills in experimental design, data analysis, modelling and technical communication that are valued across the wider chemical and energy sectors.

Why study at Tennessee Technological University

Tennessee Technological University offers a focused graduate environment with accessible faculty and opportunities for close mentorship in electrochemical research. The university’s engineering college emphasises hands‑on laboratory work and applied research, supporting projects that range from fundamental electrochemistry to prototype development.

• Faculty expertise in electrochemical energy storage, corrosion, materials characterisation and process modelling.
• Access to laboratory facilities for electrode fabrication, electrochemical testing and materials analysis, and opportunities to work on pilot‑scale systems.
• Collaborative links with regional industries and nearby research organisations, providing pathways to internships, sponsored projects and technology transfer.
• Assistantship and scholarship opportunities for qualified graduate students that provide practical experience in research and teaching.

The programme is designed to prepare graduates for immediate technical roles in industry or for continued academic research, with a balance of theoretical depth and applied training appropriate to current challenges in electrochemical engineering.