University of Saskatchewan

What you'll study

The graduate programme in Chemical Engineering is offered through the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering in the College of Engineering and is available in research (MSc) and professionally oriented (MEng) formats. Both routes build on core chemical engineering fundamentals while allowing specialisation in areas such as process systems engineering, reaction engineering, transport phenomena, biochemical and bioprocess engineering, materials and polymers, environmental and water treatment technologies, and energy and fuels.

• Core and advanced coursework: advanced reaction engineering, advanced transport phenomena, separation processes, process control and optimisation, and thermodynamics at the graduate level.
• Specialist topics: catalysis and surface science, polymer science, biochemical process design, membrane science, process modelling and simulation, and sustainable energy systems.
• Research and project work: MSc students undertake an independent thesis project under the supervision of a faculty member. MEng students typically complete a capstone project or industry-oriented research project paired with coursework.
• Laboratory and pilot-scale experience: access to departmental laboratories and pilot facilities for experiments in reaction engineering, separations, bioprocesing and materials characterisation, plus collaborative facilities such as synchrotron access through national partnerships.
• Seminars and professional development: participation in departmental seminars, journal clubs, and opportunities for teaching or research assistantships to develop communication and pedagogy skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold an honours bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or a closely related engineering or science discipline from a recognised university. Admission normally requires a strong academic record in undergraduate studies and preparation in core chemical engineering subjects (thermodynamics, transport phenomena, reaction engineering, separations).

• Academic transcripts: official transcripts demonstrating appropriate undergraduate preparation.
• Research proposal / statement of interest: a concise statement outlining research interests, relevant experience and preferred supervisors or research groups.
• References: academic references (usually two or three) who can comment on the applicant’s research potential and academic performance.
• CV / résumé: detailing academic background, laboratory experience, publications, and relevant employment.
• English language proficiency: applicants whose primary language is not English must meet the university’s graduate English-language requirement as demonstrated by an approved test or other evidence of proficiency.
• Supervisor match: for research‑based programmes, securing a faculty supervisor with aligned expertise strengthens an application; some departments recommend contacting potential supervisors prior to applying.

Career prospects

Graduates from the Chemical Engineering master’s programmes are prepared for technical and leadership roles across multiple sectors. Typical career destinations include:

• Process and design engineer roles in chemical, petrochemical and mining industries.
• Research and development positions in materials, polymers, and catalysis companies.
• Bioprocess and food‑tech engineering roles within biotechnology and agri‑food sectors.
• Environmental and water treatment engineering positions with municipal and industrial employers.
• Energy sector roles in fuel processing, renewables and carbon management firms.
• Further academic pathways: many graduates continue to doctoral study or pursue careers in university and government research laboratories.

Why study at University of Saskatchewan

The University of Saskatchewan offers a graduate experience with a strong emphasis on experimental research, pilot‑scale testing and interdisciplinary collaboration. The College of Engineering hosts research groups that partner with regional industries such as energy, mining, potash and agri‑food, providing applied research opportunities and pathways to industry engagement.

• Research strengths: faculty expertise spans process systems, biochemical engineering, materials and environmental technologies, enabling diverse thesis and project topics.
• Facilities and partnerships: access to modern departmental laboratories, pilot plants and national research infrastructure supports hands‑on experimental work and advanced characterisation.
• Funding and training: graduate students frequently receive support through teaching and research assistantships, and benefit from professional development offered by the college and university.
• Supportive community: a relatively small graduate cohort fosters close supervision, opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and strong links to regional industry and government research organisations.

Prospective students should consult the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering and the College of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies for detailed application procedures and to identify faculty whose research aligns with their interests.