University of Virginia

What you'll study

The curriculum builds a foundation in core chemical engineering subjects before introducing targeted electrochemical topics. Early years emphasise mathematics, chemistry, physics and core engineering principles such as material and energy balances, fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, and chemical reaction engineering.

• Core chemical engineering modules: material and energy balances, transport phenomena, thermodynamics, process dynamics and control, reaction engineering, separations and process design.
• Electrochemical specialism: electrochemical kinetics and thermodynamics, electrode processes, mass transport in electrochemical systems, ion transport and membrane science, corrosion science and prevention, and electrochemical materials.
• Applied courses and laboratories: hands-on laboratory modules in unit operations and electrochemical techniques (potentiostatic/potentiodynamic methods, impedance spectroscopy), instrumentation and process control, and safety and scale-up considerations for electrochemical plants.
• Design and capstone project: a year-long senior design or capstone project that typically addresses a realistic electrochemical engineering challenge such as battery pack integration, fuel cell systems, electrochemical synthesis, or corrosion mitigation strategies.
• Optional electives and research: opportunities to take electives in materials science, nanotechnology, renewable energy systems, computational modelling and to join faculty-led research projects in energy storage, electrochemical conversion and related areas.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a strong secondary-school record with substantial preparation in mathematics (calculus), chemistry and physics. Typical successful applicants present high grades or scores in these subjects and demonstrate problem-solving ability and laboratory experience where available.

• Recommended subjects: advanced mathematics (calculus), chemistry and physics.
• Standardised tests and specific grade thresholds vary; check the university's admissions pages for current guidance and any test policies.
• Competitive applicants often highlight project work, relevant laboratory experience, extracurricular activities that show leadership and teamwork, and an interest in energy or materials engineering.
• International applicants should consult the university for accepted qualifications and English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that bridge traditional chemical engineering and electrochemical technologies. Employers span multiple sectors, reflecting the broad applicability of electrochemical skills.

• Energy and storage: battery development and manufacturing, fuel cell engineering, grid-scale storage systems.
• Materials and corrosion: corrosion engineering, electroplating, surface coatings and materials development for electrodes and membranes.
• Process and manufacturing: process engineering, scale-up and manufacturing of electrochemical devices and chemical plants where electrochemical processes are used.
• Research and development: roles in industrial R&D, government laboratories and national research centres working on electrochemical conversion, sensors and advanced materials.
• Further study and academia: many graduates progress to master's or doctoral study in chemical engineering, materials science, electrochemistry or related fields.

Why study at University of Virginia

The University of Virginia offers chemical engineering education within a research-active engineering school that emphasises undergraduate teaching, hands-on laboratories and opportunities to work alongside faculty. Students benefit from access to modern laboratory facilities and opportunities to participate in research projects and industry collaborations related to energy storage, electrochemical systems and materials.

The university's location and alumni network provide additional pathways to internships and industrial partnerships. The programme’s integration of rigorous fundamentals with applied electrochemical training helps graduates move quickly into technical roles or advanced study in a growing field.