Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Nebraska Lincoln

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is designed for students who are passionate about solving real-world problems through chemistry and engineering principles. This program offers a comprehensive education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, preparing graduates for a variety of careers in industries such as pharmaceuticals, energy, and materials science.

Curriculum Structure:

In the first year, students will build a strong foundation in the fundamentals of engineering and chemistry. Courses such as "Introduction to Chemical Engineering" and "General Chemistry" will introduce students to the core concepts and principles that underpin the field, while "Calculus I" and "Physics I" will enhance their analytical and problem-solving skills.

During the second year, students delve deeper into the core areas of chemical engineering. They will take courses like "Thermodynamics" and "Fluid Mechanics," which explore the behavior of materials and energy systems, alongside "Chemical Process Principles," where they will learn about the design and operation of chemical processes. This year emphasizes the application of mathematical and scientific principles to engineering problems.

In the third year, the curriculum becomes more specialized, with courses such as "Chemical Reaction Engineering" and "Separation Processes." Students will engage in hands-on laboratory work and design projects, allowing them to apply their knowledge in practical settings. Additionally, "Heat and Mass Transfer" will provide insights into the transport phenomena critical to chemical engineering.

In the final year, students will focus on advanced topics and capstone projects that synthesize their learning. Courses like "Process Control" and "Chemical Engineering Design" will challenge students to design and optimize chemical processes, while the capstone project allows them to work on real-world engineering problems, preparing them for professional practice.

Focus Areas: Process design, environmental engineering, materials science, energy systems.

Learning Outcomes: Problem-solving skills, technical proficiency in chemical engineering principles, teamwork and communication abilities, ethical considerations in engineering.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, ensuring that it meets the high standards of quality and relevance in engineering education.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): The University of Nebraska-Lincoln consistently ranks well in employability, with a strong network of industry connections and a focus on experiential learning that enhances job readiness.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the BS in Chemical Engineering program is designed to provide students with hands-on experiences that bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and tools that enhance their learning and prepare them for successful careers in the field. The program emphasizes experiential learning through various opportunities, including collaborative projects, internships, and specialized laboratories.

Here are some key aspects of experiential learning in the Chemical Engineering program at UNL:

- Research Laboratories: Students can work in advanced labs such as the Chemical Engineering Unit Operations Lab and the Biochemical Engineering Lab, where they can conduct experiments and gain practical skills.

- Internship Opportunities: The program encourages students to participate in internships with leading companies in the chemical industry, providing invaluable work experience and networking opportunities.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a core component of the curriculum, allowing students to work in teams to solve real-world engineering problems, fostering teamwork and communication skills.

- Software Proficiency: Students gain experience with industry-standard software such as Aspen Plus for process simulation and MATLAB for data analysis, which are essential tools in the field of chemical engineering.

- Field Trips: The program includes field trips to local industries and research facilities, giving students a firsthand look at how chemical engineering principles are applied in practice.

- Libraries and Resources: The University Libraries provide access to a wealth of resources, including databases and journals specific to chemical engineering, supporting students' research and learning.

- Institute for Chemical Engineering: The university hosts the Nebraska Center for Energy Sciences Research, where students can engage in cutting-edge research related to energy and sustainability.

- Student Organizations: Joining organizations like the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) allows students to connect with peers, attend workshops, and participate in competitions.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Choosing to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln opens the door to a wealth of career opportunities. Graduates from this program are well-prepared for roles such as Chemical Engineer, Process Engineer, Environmental Engineer, and Research Scientist. The skills and knowledge gained here not only lead to immediate employment but also set the stage for long-term career success:

- University Services for Employment: The Career Services office offers personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and job search strategies tailored specifically for engineering students. Additionally, the Engineering Career Fair connects students with top employers in the field.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, over 90% of our graduates secure employment within six months of graduation, with starting salaries averaging around $70,000 per year, depending on the role and location.

- University–Industry Partnerships: The College of Engineering has established strong partnerships with leading companies such as ConAgra, Valmont Industries, and the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world project experience.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), ensuring that your degree meets the highest standards and is recognized by employers worldwide.

- Graduation Outcomes: Our graduates have gone on to work for prestigious organizations and have also pursued advanced degrees, further enhancing their career prospects.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your BS in Chemical Engineering, you have the option to continue your studies with a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering or related fields. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln offers a robust graduate program that allows you to specialize in areas such as biochemical engineering, materials science, or environmental engineering. Additionally, pursuing a Ph.D. can open doors to research positions and academic careers, further solidifying your expertise and leadership in the field.