Candidates receive an applied, hands-on education and build the knowledge and training needed to effectively contribute to the field of engineering. The Chemical Engineering specialization emphasizes project management skills and industrially relevant research that prepares students for careers in high-tech fields. This program includes the following focus areas: Bioengineering & Biomedical Engineering; Polymer Science & Engineering; Separations; Reaction Engineering; Sustainability; and Engineering Pedagogy.

Students can choose between a thesis track and a coursework track. Students may also work on a project, which may be counted toward a coursework track degree. Most full time students work on funded research projects, leading to a thesis. Most part time students select the coursework track. In order to be eligible for a Teaching or Research Assistantship, students must select the thesis track.