Are you looking to advance your career in the growing field of chemical engineering? If so, an online Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering may be just what you need. With a wide range of career opportunities available, a chemical engineering master’s degree can open up many doors for professionals looking to advance their careers in this field.
Choosing the right online chemical engineering master’s degree program is an important decision. To help you, we will share some of the best online chemical engineering master’s degree programs in the country in this guide. We will also provide information on chemical engineering jobs and salary prospects for graduates.
Where Can I Get a Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree Online?
Some of the best schools to get a chemical engineering master’s degree online are Auburn University, Mississippi State University, and North Carolina State University. You may also want to consider the programs offered by Texas Tech University and the University of North Dakota.
What Schools Offer the Best Chemical Engineering Master’s Degrees?
- Auburn University
- Mississippi State University
- North Carolina State University
- Texas Tech University
- University of North Dakota
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree?
Admission requirements for an online chemical engineering master’s program include filling out an online application form and submitting school transcripts. The applicants must have a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field from an Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) accredited institute.
Additionally, some schools may ask you to submit a Graduate Record Examination (GRE) score and TOEFL/IELTS score if you’re an international student. Other requirements include a statement of purpose, resume or curriculum vitae (CV), and two to three letters of recommendation.
Online Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Online application form
- Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field from an ABET-accredited institute
- Official transcripts
- GRE score
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Resume or CV
- TOEFL/IELTS scores (for international students)
How to Get a Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree Online
You get a chemical engineering master’s degree online by fulfilling all the graduation requirements. You must complete at least 30 credit hours of coursework that are divided into 24 credits of coursework and six credits of research and thesis. Most schools require you to maintain at least a 3.0 GPA in your coursework to be eligible for research work.
For the non-thesis option, you must take two additional courses in place of the thesis to fulfill the 30 credits of study. You must also pay all tuition and other fees to get your graduate degree.
Chemical Engineering Degree Requirements
- 24 credit hours of coursework including major and elective courses
- Up to six credit hours of research and thesis (thesis option)
- Two additional courses with a total of 6 credits (non-thesis option)
- At least a 3.0 GPA in coursework
- Oral examination or final thesis defense
Best Online Chemical Engineering Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Auburn University | Master of Science in Chemical Engineering | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Kansas State University | Master of Science in Chemical Engineering | Higher Learning Commission |
| Mississippi State University | Master of Science in Chemical Engineering | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| North Carolina State University | Master of Science in Chemical Engineering | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Stanford University | Master of Science in Chemical Engineering | WASC Senior College and University Commission |
| Texas Tech University | Master of Science in Chemical Engineering | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| University of Connecticut | Master of Engineering in Chemical Engineering | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| University of North Dakota | Master of Science in Chemical Engineering | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of Southern California | Master of Science in Chemical Engineering | WASC Senior College and University Commission |
| University of Virginia | Master of Engineering in Chemical Engineering | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
Best Schools for Chemical Engineering: Top Online Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree Programs
The table above listed the 10 best chemical engineering schools. Below, we will discuss the details of the online program they offer in this section. These include tuition fees, graduation rates, admission requirements, and the application process.
What Is an Online Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree?
An online chemical engineering master’s degree is a program that the students can pursue after a bachelor’s degree through an online learning format. It covers the study of advanced chemical engineering concepts and practices. The curriculum typically consists of 24 credit hours of required courses, six credit hours of research and thesis, and takes two years to complete.
A graduate student can pursue an online master’s degree in two ways. One common model is asynchronous learning, where students receive course materials and complete assignments on their own time. Other models may include synchronous sessions, where students can interact live with instructors and peers through online discussion forums or video conferencing tools.
Online vs In-Person Chemical Engineering Degrees
Online programs typically offer more flexibility and convenience, as chemical engineering students can complete their coursework any time and from anywhere. In contrast, an in-person program will typically require your physical presence on campus for many of your classes. Below are some of the benefits of an online and in-person Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering
- Flexible learning options. Many online programs offer flexible learning options, such as self-paced coursework and asynchronous classes. These options allow students to complete their coursework on their own terms.
- Savings on other expenses. Since students don’t have to commute to campus, they can save on fuel or travel fees and other associated costs.
- Shorter duration. Online programs can often be completed faster. This allows students to enter the job market or start their careers sooner.
- Affordable tuition. Online programs often offer lower tuition rates than in-person programs, making them more affordable for many students.
- Continue your current job. Many students choose to pursue an online degree in chemical engineering because they can continue their full-time jobs while also taking online classes.
Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering
- Hands-on learning. One of the main benefits of an in-person Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering is the hands-on learning opportunities it provides. Students can gain first-hand experience in the labs and research facilities on campus.
- Networking opportunities. In-person degree programs often offer more opportunities to network with fellow students and faculty. This can help students build valuable connections in their field, which is ultimately beneficial for their future careers.
- Access to resources. Students in an in-person program have access to all resources on campus, including libraries, computer labs, and academic support services.
- Interaction with instructors. With an in-person Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering, students can interact better with their instructors. This can help students learn from their expert insights and gain valuable mentorship as they progress through their studies.
- Better job prospects. Because in-person degrees are usually more established and reputable, they can often result in better job prospects after graduation.
What Types of Online Master’s Degrees Can You Get in Chemical Engineering?
The two most common types of online Master’s Degrees in Chemical Engineering you can get are a Master of Science (MS) and a Master of Engineering (MEng). An MS degree typically focuses on research work. An MEng degree focuses on practical applications of engineering principles and is more oriented towards engineering-related coursework.
Is It Better to Get a Master of Science or a Master of Engineering Degree in Chemical Engineering?
It’s better to get a Master of Science degree in Chemical Engineering than a Master of Engineering. An MS degree is more comprehensive as it consists of advanced coursework and research work. It offers more learning opportunities in various disciplines. An MEng degree only consists of advanced coursework that’s more focused on the engineering discipline.
How Much Does a Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree Cost?
The average cost for a chemical engineering master’s degree is $12,410 per year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). This cost varies depending on the program and institution you choose. It also depends on whether you’re a resident or non-resident of the state where the school is. In-state students typically pay lower tuition rates than out-of-state students.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree Online?
It typically takes two years to complete the online Master of Science in Chemical Engineering, while a Master of Engineering degree takes one and a half years to complete. To get this master’s degree online, you usually need to earn 30 credits. You need to complete 24 credits of coursework and six credits of research and thesis work to graduate in two years.
Are Online Chemical Engineering Degrees Respected?
Yes, online chemical engineering degrees from institutions with a strong reputation for high-quality education are respected. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 57.7 percent of students are enrolled in distance education courses, 32.6 percent of which take exclusively online programs. These numbers indicate that more people now recognize the value of online degrees.
Is Chemical Engineering Hard to Learn Online?
No, chemical engineering is not hard to learn online. Many students find that studying at their own pace and in their own time is a better learning format for them. Therefore, online programs are easier because of the learning flexibility they provide.
Why You Should Get a Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree Online
You should get a chemical engineering master’s degree online if you’re passionate about advancing your career in chemical engineering. It can help you grow your skills and prepare you for more senior and leadership roles. It can also help you expand your professional connections, which are crucial to your success in this field.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Master’s Degree Program in Chemical Engineering?
The major courses you can take in an online Master’s Degree Program in Chemical Engineering are advanced chemical engineering thermodynamics and advanced transport phenomena. You’ll also learn about advanced chemical reaction engineering, heat and mass transfer, and biochemical engineering. We provide an overview of each of these courses below.
Advanced Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics
In this course, you will learn how to construct and resolve energy flow and phase/reaction equilibrium issues in chemical engineering. You will study the behavior of gasses and liquids, and learn how to apply these concepts to real-world situations.
Advanced Transport Phenomena
To solve difficulties in natural and industrial applications, you’ll study how to construct mathematical formulas based on continuity, momentum, and energy balance equations. You’ll also learn about viscous flow, the effect of fluid flow on mass transfer, and analogies between viscosity, diffusivity, and thermal conductivity.
Advanced Chemical Reaction Engineering
In this course, you’ll learn about the advanced concepts of reaction kinetics and reaction mechanism. You will study reactor design, catalyst deactivation, and methods for optimizing chemical reactions and reaction rates.
Heat and Mass Transfer
This is one of the core courses in chemical engineering. It covers the transfer of heat and mass in solids as well as in laminar and turbulent fluid flow. You’ll learn about advanced concepts of convection, conduction, radiation, diffusion, and heat and mass transfer coefficients.
Biochemical Engineering
This course deals with the application of chemical engineering principles to biochemistry and biotechnology. You’ll learn about enzymes, fermentation, cell culture, and the purification and recovery of biomolecules. You will also study the complex biochemical reaction mechanisms.
Continuing Education Paths for Online Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree Graduates
Graduates with an online Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering can continue their education by pursuing a doctoral degree. A PhD in Chemical Engineering typically takes four to five years to complete. It offers opportunities that can lead to careers in academia or research institutes.
Related Online Chemical Engineering Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree Programs
The things to look for in the best chemical engineering programs are cost and financial aid, accelerated degree options, specialization options. You may also want to look into the program and the school’s reputation and employment outcomes. We discuss each factor in detail in this section.
Cost and Financial Aid
There are programs that offer affordable tuition rates and financial aid, such as scholarships, grants, or work-study opportunities. These reduced tuition costs and financing options will help reduce your overall educational expenses and save you money.
Accelerated Degree Options
If you want to complete your degree program quickly, you can consider programs that offer accelerated options. If you’re currently enrolled in an engineering undergraduate degree, you can take units for a Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering during your senior year and finish them simultaneously. This will allow you to earn degrees faster and get into the workforce sooner.
Specialization Options
Programs that offer specialization options allow you to match your coursework with your interests and career goals. For example, if you’re interested in engineering design, renewable energies, or environmental engineering, look for programs that offer specialized tracks in these areas.
Reputation
The reputation of the school and the program are both important when weighing your options. A lot of schools offer a degree, but only a few are known for quality. Reviewing the reputation will help ensure that you’re getting a quality education that can prepare you for a successful career in chemical engineering.
Employment Outcomes
Lastly, look for programs that offer strong employment prospects and connections with employers in your area. This will help you get a job after graduation and start your career right away.
What Is the Most Affordable Online Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree?
The most affordable online chemical engineering master’s program is the Master of Science in Chemical Engineering offered by Mississippi State University. The tuition and fees for this program cost $9,398 per year for in-state students. The full program will cost about $18,800.
Can I Get a Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree Online for Free?
No, you cannot get a chemical engineering master’s degree online for free. However, you can look for scholarships or financial aid that will make your program partially or even completely free. Fully funded scholarships cover tuition fee costs and also provide a monthly stipend throughout the standard degree period.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree Graduates
The salary and jobs for graduates of the best online chemical engineering master’s degree programs have a positive outlook. The available job roles are forecast to have a four to eight percent growth in the coming years. Most of the salaries are also almost six digits. Let’s have a closer look at the projections, salaries, and job opportunities below.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree?
It’s hard to get a job with a chemical engineering master’s degree, as there’s high competition with many candidates being qualified. However, it’s possible to find employment right after graduation if your specialization is in high demand and you’ve built strong network connections. Staying updated on trends and developments and preparing for job interviews will also help to ensure that you get the job.
What’s the Average Online Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree Salary?
The average salary of a chemical engineer with a master’s degree is $86,000 per year, according to PayScale. The salary may vary depending on the role, experience, and industry. For instance, a senior process engineer earns higher at $109,180 annually than a process engineer at $85,455 a year.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with an online chemical engineering master’s degree are production engineer, petroleum engineer, and mining engineer. You can also be a health and safety engineer, energy engineer, materials scientist, and quality manager.
Chemical Engineering Degree Jobs
- Materials Engineer
- Petroleum Engineer
- Mining Engineer
- Health and Safety Engineer
- Quality Manager
Potential Careers With an Online Chemical Engineering Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Online Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree?
With the best online chemical engineering master’s degree jobs, you can earn between $97,000 and $130,000 annually. You can expect to make a competitive salary depending on your level of experience and other factors.
Highest-Paying Online Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Petroleum Engineer | $130,850 |
| Chemical Engineer | $105,550 |
| Health and Safety Engineer | $99,040 |
| Materials Engineer | $98,300 |
| Mining and Geological Engineer | $97,090 |
Best Jobs for Online Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree Grads
Below is a list of some of the best chemical engineering master’s degree jobs. We also detail their annual salary, job outlook, number of available jobs, and highest-paying states.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Online Chemical Engineer Master’s Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering is worth it. Not only will this degree allow you to gain advanced knowledge and skills in your field, but it can also open up a range of career opportunities with high earning potential. The outlook for job availability in this field is also strong.
Additionally, many employers today value candidates with an advanced degree, as they tend to be more skilled and knowledgeable than their peers. So if you are considering pursuing an online Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering, know that it is a worthwhile investment.
Additional Reading About Chemical Engineer
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Online Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree FAQ
An MS or Master of Science leading to PhD in Chemical Engineering is a program that allows you to work towards both a master’s and PhD degree at the same time. This can be beneficial if you want to pursue a career in academia or research, as it will save you time and money in the long term.
Yes, chemical engineering is in demand. The demand for chemical engineers is expected to grow by nine percent from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This growth is due to the increasing need for new and improved products and processes in the chemical industry.
Yes, you can start your own business after completing a Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering. However, it’s important to note that starting your own business requires a range of skills and knowledge, including experience in marketing, finance, and operations. Additionally, you may need to seek out funding or investment to get your business off the ground.
Yes, a PhD in Chemical Engineering is worth it if you want to pursue a career in academia or research. With this degree, you’ll be able to teach at the university level or work as a research scientist. However, if you want to work in the industry, a PhD is not required.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
