Villanova University

What you'll study

The programme builds on core chemical engineering concepts while introducing specialised biochemical topics. Students take a mix of required and elective courses and complete either a research thesis or a substantial applied project.

• Core engineering foundations: transport phenomena, advanced reaction engineering and applied thermodynamics tailored to biochemical systems.
• Biochemical and biological subjects: enzyme kinetics, cell and tissue culture fundamentals, microbial physiology, and metabolic engineering.
• Bioprocess and reactor design: design and scale-up of bioreactors, bioprocess control and optimisation, mass transfer in biological systems.
• Downstream processing: separation methods, chromatography, filtration, purification strategies and formulation considerations for biologics.
• Analytical and computational methods: process modelling and simulation, statistical design of experiments, bioinformatics tools relevant to process development.
• Laboratory and pilot-scale experience: hands-on lab courses, pilot-scale unit operations, and opportunities to work in faculty or industry-affiliated laboratories.
• Capstone: an independent research thesis or industry-oriented capstone project applying engineering principles to a biochemical challenge.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, biochemical engineering, biochemical sciences, biotechnology, or a closely related engineering or science discipline. Successful candidates typically demonstrate strong preparation in calculus, differential equations, thermodynamics, transport phenomena and basic chemistry or biology.

• Academic transcript: an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution with a record of solid performance in relevant technical courses.
• Supporting documents: a statement of purpose outlining research or career goals, a current CV or résumé, and professional or academic letters of recommendation.
• Standardised tests: some applicants may be asked to submit GRE scores depending on background and programme requirements; international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through accepted tests unless otherwise exempt.
• Preparation for applicants from other backgrounds: applicants lacking specific prerequisites may be admitted on condition of completing preparatory coursework before or during the early stages of the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of roles across industry, government and academia. Common career paths include:

• Process development and scale-up in biopharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, focusing on translating laboratory processes to manufacturing scale.
• Manufacturing and operations roles in biologics production, quality assurance, and process optimisation.
• Research and development positions in enzyme engineering, metabolic engineering and downstream processing.
• Regulatory, validation and quality systems work supporting product approvals and compliance in highly regulated environments.
• Consulting and technical services for suppliers of bioprocess equipment, instrumentation and raw materials.
• Continued study leading to doctoral research or academic careers for those pursuing fundamental research.

Why study at Villanova University

Villanova’s engineering programmes are known for strong faculty engagement, an emphasis on ethical and professional development, and close ties to industry in the mid‑Atlantic region. The university provides access to laboratory facilities and pilot‑scale equipment that support hands‑on training in bioprocessing and biochemical experimentation.

• Faculty expertise: opportunities to work with faculty whose research spans bioprocess engineering, biomaterials and applied biotechnology.
• Facilities and resources: laboratory courses and research spaces designed for cell culture, biochemical analysis and unit operations testing.
• Industry connections: proximity to pharmaceutical and biotech firms in the Northeast that supports internships, collaborative projects and networking.
• Student support: small cohort sizes, mentoring, career services and professional development events that help prepare graduates for technical and leadership roles.