Rochester Institute of Technology

What you'll study

The programme is built on a core chemical engineering curriculum covering material and energy balances, transport phenomena, thermodynamics, reaction engineering and separations. From that foundation you’ll take specialised coursework and laboratory modules in electrochemical science and engineering, including electrochemistry principles, electrode kinetics, mass transport in electrochemical systems, corrosion science, and electrochemical methods used in characterisation and testing.

Typical elements of the degree include:

• Foundational engineering mathematics and physics, and general and physical chemistry
• Core chemical engineering subjects: unit operations, heat and mass transfer, reactor design and process control
• Electrochemical-focused modules: electrochemical thermodynamics and kinetics, batteries and fuel cell technology, corrosion engineering and electrochemical sensors
• Hands-on laboratory courses emphasising experimental electrochemistry, materials characterisation and process scale-up
• Capstone design project that can be chosen to address electrochemical applications, often done in collaboration with industry partners or faculty research groups
• Opportunities for technical electives in materials science, polymer engineering, environmental engineering, and power systems

Throughout the programme students are encouraged to combine classroom learning with experiential activities: laboratory research, senior design, student clubs and multidisciplinary project courses. RIT’s cooperative education programme provides paid, full‑time work terms that let students apply electrochemical and process engineering skills in industry settings.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a strong background in mathematics (calculus), chemistry and physics from secondary school. Successful candidates typically present a high school diploma with competitive grades in STEM subjects and evidence of readiness for an intensive engineering programme.

International applicants must demonstrate equivalent academic preparation and meet RIT’s English language proficiency requirements. As part of the admissions process, applicants may be asked for transcripts, a personal statement and references. Transfer applicants with college-level calculus, chemistry and physics courses are considered; advanced standing may be granted based on completed coursework and placement assessments.

Career prospects

Graduates with a chemical engineering degree focused on electrochemical systems are well positioned for roles in the growing energy storage and electrochemical manufacturing sectors. Typical career paths include:

• Battery and fuel cell engineer, working on cell design, testing and scale-up
• Corrosion engineer and materials specialist for infrastructure and process industries
• Process engineer or plant engineer in electroplating, electrochemical synthesis or water treatment
• R&D engineer in companies developing sensors, electrochemical actuators or advanced materials
• Quality, manufacturing and project engineering roles in chemicals, pharmaceuticals and semiconductor supply chains
• Further study at graduate level in electrochemical engineering, materials science, energy systems or related fields

RIT graduates benefit from employer connections fostered through cooperative education and industry-sponsored projects, which frequently lead to full-time employment after graduation.

Why study at Rochester Institute of Technology

RIT’s Kate Gleason College of Engineering combines rigorous engineering fundamentals with hands-on experiential learning. The institute is known for its cooperative education programme that integrates paid, industry-based work terms into the curriculum, giving students direct exposure to companies developing electrochemical technologies.

Students studying electrochemical engineering at RIT have access to modern laboratory facilities, project-focused courses and interdisciplinary collaboration across materials science, mechanical engineering and sustainability initiatives. Small class sizes, faculty engaged in applied research and a regional ecosystem of manufacturers and tech companies in Rochester provide practical opportunities for internships, research and career placement.

The programme’s emphasis on practical skills, design experience and industry engagement prepares graduates to contribute to the development of batteries, fuel cells and other electrochemical systems in both established and emerging markets.