Case Western Reserve University

What you'll study

The programme combines core chemical engineering fundamentals with specialised courses and laboratory work in electrochemical science and engineering. Core topics typically include advanced transport phenomena, reaction kinetics, thermodynamics and process control. Electrochemical-focused modules cover physical electrochemistry, electrode and electrolyte materials, electrocatalysis, batteries and fuel cells, corrosion science, porous-electrode theory and electrochemical separations.

• Foundational coursework: advanced fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, reaction engineering and process modelling.
• Electrochemical specialisms: electrochemical thermodynamics and kinetics, solid-state and liquid electrolytes, electrode fabrication and characterisation, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and porous media transport for electrodes.
• Computational and experimental methods: multiscale modelling of electrochemical devices, materials characterisation (XRD, SEM, electrochemical testing), cell and stack design and data analysis.
• Laboratory and project work: hands-on laboratory modules and an independent capstone project or thesis involving original research with faculty in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: materials science, polymer electrolytes, corrosion engineering, process safety, and optional courses from nearby engineering or materials departments to match career focus.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, chemical technology, materials science, chemistry, physics or a closely related field. Successful applicants typically demonstrate strong preparation in mathematics, undergraduate thermodynamics, transport phenomena and reaction engineering, and laboratory coursework.

• Official academic transcripts and a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• A personal statement outlining academic background, research or industry experience, and reasons for specialising in electrochemical engineering; applicants pursuing the thesis option should include a research interests statement.
• Letters of recommendation (usually two to three) from academic or professional referees.
• A curriculum vitae or résumé detailing relevant coursework, research, internships or employment.
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements (such as TOEFL or IELTS) unless exempt.

Some applicants may be asked to submit GRE scores if desired by the admissions committee; relevant research experience or coursework can strengthen an application. Candidates without a formal chemical engineering degree but with strong quantitative and laboratory backgrounds may be considered, sometimes with conditional preparatory coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates with a master’s focused on electrochemical engineering are employed across academic, industrial and government research environments as well as in process and product development roles. Typical career paths include:

• R&D engineer or scientist in battery, fuel cell and energy storage companies developing materials, cell designs and testing protocols.
• Corrosion engineer and materials specialist in oil & gas, utilities and infrastructure sectors.
• Process engineer or scale-up specialist for electrochemical manufacturing and chemical production facilities.
• Engineer in electrochemical sensor and analytical device companies.
• Consultant or technical specialist in energy transition, sustainability and clean-tech firms.
• Progression to PhD study and academic research in electrochemistry, materials science or related fields.

Why study at Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve University's Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering offers close mentorship from faculty active in electrochemical research and access to dedicated laboratories for energy materials and electrochemical systems. The programme emphasises hands-on experimental training alongside modelling and design, giving students a balanced skillset for industry or research careers.

Students benefit from an interdisciplinary environment that encourages collaboration with materials science, physics and engineering colleagues, and from connections to regional industry for internships and applied projects. Smaller cohort sizes and active faculty research groups facilitate opportunities for independent thesis projects, publications and participation in externally funded research initiatives.

Overall, the programme is designed to prepare graduates to tackle practical challenges in energy storage, electrochemical manufacturing and corrosion control, with the technical depth and professional experience valued by employers and doctoral programmes alike.