University of Massachusetts Amherst

What you'll study

The programme combines core chemical engineering coursework with specialised study in electrochemical science and technology. Typical taught modules cover advanced transport phenomena, chemical thermodynamics, reaction engineering, electrochemical thermodynamics and kinetics, and materials for energy applications. More specialised subjects you can expect include batteries and supercapacitors, fuel cell engineering, electrode and electrolyte materials, corrosion and surface electrochemistry, electrochemical reactor design, and modelling of coupled mass, charge and heat transport.

Students usually follow either a thesis (research) route or a non‑thesis (coursework and project) route. The thesis route centres on an independent research project under a faculty supervisor and includes laboratory work, experimental characterisation or computational modelling. The non‑thesis route emphasises advanced coursework and a capstone project or practicum that applies electrochemical engineering principles to a practical problem. Regular seminars and group meetings expose students to current research and industry developments.

Entry requirements

• Academic background: A bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering is preferred; applicants with degrees in closely related fields (materials science, chemistry, mechanical engineering, physics) with relevant coursework may also be considered.
• Academic performance: A strong undergraduate academic record is expected. The department reviews transcripts to ensure preparation in core areas such as thermodynamics, transport phenomena, reaction engineering, physical chemistry and mathematics.
• Supporting documents: A personal statement describing research or career interests in electrochemical engineering, a current CV, and letters of recommendation (typically two or three) are required.
• English language: International applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency through an accepted English test unless exempted by the university’s policy.
• Additional factors: Relevant research experience, publications, industrial experience, or demonstrated proficiency in laboratory or computational methods strengthen an application. GRE scores may be optional or considered depending on departmental policy.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme move into roles across energy, materials and process industries. Typical career paths include process or design engineer roles focused on electrochemical systems, R&D engineer positions in battery, fuel cell and electroplating companies, materials scientist roles working on electrode and electrolyte development, and technical positions at national and private research laboratories. Other opportunities include technical consulting, product development for energy storage and conversion, and continuation to PhD studies for careers in academia or advanced research.

Why study at University of Massachusetts Amherst

The Chemical Engineering department at UMass Amherst has an active research portfolio in electrochemical engineering and energy-related areas, allowing students to work with faculty on contemporary problems in batteries, fuel cells, corrosion and electrochemical reactor design. The university’s collaborative environment encourages interdisciplinary projects with neighbouring departments such as Materials Science, Chemistry and Physics, providing access to a broad range of experimental and computational facilities.

Students benefit from a balance of rigorous coursework and hands‑on research, opportunities for industry engagement and internship pipelines, and a campus culture that supports innovation and entrepreneurship. The department’s emphasis on both fundamentals and application prepares graduates to tackle technical challenges in the evolving energy and materials sectors.