John Hopkins University

What you'll study

The programme builds a strong foundation in mathematics, physics and chemistry before moving into core chemical engineering subjects and electrochemical specialisms. Early years focus on calculus, linear algebra, mechanics, general and physical chemistry, and introductory chemical engineering topics. In later years students study transport phenomena, chemical reaction engineering, thermodynamics, process control, materials science and unit operations.

• Fundamental courses: multivariable calculus, differential equations, classical mechanics, general chemistry and organic chemistry.
• Core chemical engineering: fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, thermodynamics, kinetics and reactor design, process dynamics and control.
• Electrochemical specialisms: electrochemistry and electrochemical engineering, electrode materials and interfaces, battery science and technology, fuel cell engineering, corrosion and corrosion mitigation.
• Laboratory and practical work: analytical electrochemistry labs, materials characterisation, process laboratory, and experimental design.
• Capstone design and research: a year‑long senior design project or an independent research thesis that is often partnered with faculty research groups, interdisciplinary centres or external laboratories.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: materials science, solid‑state chemistry, nanotechnology, computational modelling, control systems, and entrepreneurship courses to support commercialisation of electrochemical technologies.

Programme structure

Students typically complete general education and foundational STEM requirements in the first two years, core chemical engineering courses in the middle years, and specialised electives and a capstone project in the final year. There are significant opportunities for undergraduate research placements, summer internships and industry projects that complement formal coursework.

Entry requirements

Admission to Johns Hopkins is competitive and based on academic achievement, coursework rigor and evidence of preparation for a demanding STEM curriculum. Strong performance in high‑school mathematics (through calculus where available), chemistry and physics is expected.

• Academic background: strong grades in mathematics, chemistry and physics; completion of advanced maths (calculus) and laboratory science courses is highly recommended.
• Application materials: a completed application with personal statement, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation that highlight analytical skills and laboratory or project experience.
• Supplementary experience: research projects, science competitions, relevant internships or independent laboratory work strengthen an application, especially for students aiming to focus on electrochemical topics.
• International applicants: proof of English language proficiency where required and submission of equivalent academic documentation from secondary schools.

Career prospects

Graduates with a chemical engineering degree emphasising electrochemical engineering are well placed for roles across energy, materials and process industries as well as for further study. Employers value the programme’s combination of modelling, laboratory skills and process design.

• Industry roles: battery and energy storage engineer, fuel cell development engineer, corrosion engineer, process engineer in chemical or materials manufacturing, and quality and reliability engineer.
• Research and development: positions in national laboratories, corporate R&D groups and start‑ups developing next‑generation electrodes, electrolytes and electrochemical devices.
• Cross‑disciplinary careers: materials engineering, semiconductor fabrication, electroplating and surface treatment industries, and roles in sustainability and renewable energy systems.
• Further study: many graduates continue to MSc or PhD programmes in chemical engineering, materials science, electrochemistry or related disciplines; others pursue professional degrees in business or law.

Why study at Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins is a research‑intensive university with strong engineering and applied science programmes, offering undergraduates early access to research groups and facilities. Students interested in electrochemical engineering benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across chemistry, materials science and engineering departments, and from connections with applied research centres and laboratories.

• Research opportunities: abundant chances for undergraduate research alongside faculty working on batteries, fuel cells, corrosion and related areas.
• Interdisciplinary environment: ease of collaboration with chemistry, materials science, physics and biomedical engineering faculty and centres.
• Facilities and partnerships: access to advanced materials characterisation and electrochemical testing facilities, and opportunities to engage with university research laboratories and affiliated applied research groups.
• Career support: a strong programme of internships, industry partnerships and career services that helps bridge academic experience with employers in energy, materials and manufacturing sectors.