University of Arizona

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced chemical engineering core subjects with specialised courses and laboratory training in electrochemical science and technology. Core coursework typically covers transport phenomena, reaction engineering, process modelling and materials for energy applications. Electrochemical‑focused modules commonly include electrochemistry and electrode kinetics, batteries and energy storage, fuel cell technology, corrosion science and prevention, and electrochemical synthesis and separations.

Students undertake practical laboratory training in electrochemical characterisation (such as cyclic voltammetry, impedance spectroscopy and galvanostatic testing), materials synthesis and testing, and computational modelling of transport and reaction processes. The programme offers both thesis (research) and project/coursework pathways: the thesis route centres on an original research project supervised by faculty, while the non‑thesis option emphasises advanced coursework and an applied capstone or practicum.

Typical modules and topics

• Advanced Electrochemistry and Electrode Kinetics
• Batteries and Energy Storage Systems
• Fuel Cells and Electrolyzers
• Corrosion Science and Materials Degradation
• Transport Phenomena in Electrochemical Systems
• Materials for Energy Conversion and Storage
• Process Modelling and Control for Electrochemical Reactors
• Laboratory Methods in Electrochemical Characterisation

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, materials science, chemistry, mechanical engineering or a closely related physical science or engineering discipline. Typical preparation includes undergraduate coursework in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, and basic physical chemistry or electrochemistry.

Admissions review considers academic record, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose describing research or career goals, and relevant laboratory or industry experience. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted test or qualifying pathway. Some applicants pursue preliminary bridging courses if their background is missing specialised prerequisites.

Career prospects

Graduates with an electrochemical engineering focus pursue roles across energy, materials and manufacturing sectors. Common career paths include R&D engineer or scientist in battery and fuel cell development, process engineer for electrochemical manufacturing, corrosion engineer in infrastructure and oil & gas sectors, materials engineer for coatings and electrodes, and roles in modelling and scale‑up of electrochemical reactors.

Alumni also move into positions at energy technology companies, established chemical and materials manufacturers, national laboratories, and startups working on energy storage, green hydrogen and electrochemical CO2 conversion. The master’s degree also provides a route to PhD programmes for those aiming at academic or advanced research careers.

Why study at University of Arizona

The University of Arizona offers an interdisciplinary research environment that connects chemical engineering with materials science, physics and environmental engineering—valuable for electrochemical research. Students benefit from hands‑on access to departmental laboratories and shared instrumentation for materials characterisation and electrochemical testing, as well as opportunities to work on applied projects with faculty engaged in energy and materials research.

Located in a research‑active university with partnerships across industry and national research organisations, the programme emphasises practical problem‑solving and translational research. Small class sizes in advanced courses and close mentorship from faculty support both coursework mastery and independent research, preparing graduates for technical leadership in industry or continuation to doctoral study.