Worcester Polytechnic Institute

What you'll study

The MS in Chemical Engineering offers a balance of core advanced subjects, elective specialisations and a substantial research or project component. Core topics commonly studied include advanced transport phenomena, chemical reaction engineering, thermodynamics and statistical mechanics, separations and mass transfer, process control and dynamics, and numerical methods for chemical engineering.

Elective options allow specialisation in areas such as catalysis and reaction engineering, polymer and materials engineering, biochemical and bioprocess engineering, energy and environmental processes, process systems engineering and process design. Students pursue either a thesis route focused on original research or a project/non‑thesis route that typically culminates in a substantial applied project or report.

Coursework is complemented by laboratory work and access to departmental facilities where students gain practical experience with process equipment, analytical instrumentation and computational modelling tools. Many students also participate in faculty research groups, interdisciplinary centres and collaborations with industry partners.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering or a closely related discipline. Admissions typically consider academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose outlining research or career objectives, and a current CV. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency where required.

Fundamental undergraduate preparation should include calculus, differential equations, general chemistry, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, and introductory transport and reaction engineering. Applicants who lack certain prerequisites may be admitted conditionally and asked to complete specified leveling courses prior to or during the programme. Standardised tests may be optional or used at the discretion of the department, so applicants should consult the department’s admissions guidance for current expectations.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MS in Chemical Engineering pursue a broad range of careers in sectors such as chemicals and process manufacturing, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, energy and renewables, materials and polymers, consumer products, food and beverage processing, and environmental engineering. Typical roles include process engineer, R&D engineer, product development engineer, process design engineer, quality and process control specialist, and technical consultant.

The programme also prepares students for doctoral study and research careers. WPI graduates often move into positions that combine technical responsibilities with project management, regulatory affairs or business development, supported by practical experience gained through research projects and industry collaborations.

Why study at Worcester Polytechnic Institute

WPI is known for its hands‑on, project‑focused approach to engineering education and for strong industry and regional partnerships that provide internship and research opportunities. Chemical engineering students benefit from close faculty engagement, access to modern laboratories and computational resources, and opportunities to join interdisciplinary projects across materials, biotechnology and energy topics.

The institute’s location in a historic city with a dense cluster of industry and research institutions supports networking and employment prospects. Graduate students also have access to career services, professional development workshops and entrepreneurial resources that help translate technical expertise into impactful careers.