University of Kansas

What you'll study

The programme combines core chemical engineering fundamentals with specialised coursework and research in electrochemical systems. Typical taught topics include advanced transport phenomena, chemical reaction engineering, thermodynamics, applied electrochemistry, electrode materials and interfaces, corrosion science, and modelling of electrochemical processes. Students also study experimental methods for electrochemical characterisation, materials synthesis for energy storage, and computational methods for multiphysics simulation.

Students may choose between a thesis (research) route and a non-thesis (coursework/master’s project) route. The thesis route centres on sustained laboratory or computational research under a faculty supervisor, culminating in a written thesis and defence. The non-thesis route emphasises advanced coursework and a project or industrially oriented practicum. Research topics frequently available include lithium-ion and post-lithium batteries, fuel-cell materials and diagnostics, electrode kinetics and mass transport, corrosion mitigation, and electrochemical synthesis.

Learning is delivered through lectures, laboratory work, seminars and one-to-one research supervision. Graduates gain hands-on experience with electrochemical techniques (potentiostats/galvanostats), materials characterisation tools, and simulation packages commonly used in industry and academia.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, materials science, chemistry, or a closely related engineering or science discipline, with strong performance in core quantitative courses such as mathematics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and basic electrochemistry or physical chemistry. Candidates with substantial industry experience and a relevant technical background may also be considered.

Typical application components include official academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining research or professional goals, two or more academic or professional references, and a CV. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency by an accepted test unless exempt. The department may request examples of prior laboratory or project work and, for research-track candidates, alignment with a potential faculty supervisor.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a variety of technical and research roles across the energy, materials and process sectors. Common career paths include battery and energy-storage R&D, fuel-cell development, corrosion control and materials protection, electroplating and surface engineering, and process engineering roles in chemical and petrochemical companies. Graduates are also well placed for positions in national laboratories, contract research organisations and startups working on clean energy technologies.

The programme also provides a strong foundation for those who wish to continue to doctoral study in electrochemical engineering, materials science or related disciplines, or to move into technical leadership and consulting roles where deep electrochemical expertise is required.

Why study at University of Kansas

The University of Kansas offers a research-active chemical engineering programme with faculty who specialise in electrochemical systems and materials for energy applications. Students benefit from close supervision, access to shared laboratory facilities and interdisciplinary collaboration with departments such as chemistry and materials science. The department maintains links with regional and national industry partners, providing opportunities for internships, collaborative research projects and technology translation.

Being based at KU also means studying in a supportive engineering school with small cohort sizes in advanced courses, regular seminar series and opportunities to present research at conferences. These features help students build a professional network, gain practical skills sought by employers, and prepare for careers in both industry and academia.