The Department of Chemical Engineering at Carnegie Mellon awarded its first diplomas in 1908. Since then, the department has grown substantially in both stature and reputation, and now offers a bachelor of science degree, master's degrees, and a doctor of philosophy.
The department emphasizes problem-solving techniques in the learning of basic principles in chemical engineering science and process systems engineering. Computing is integrated throughout the curriculum, and extensive use is made of software for mathematical modeling and simulation. The Rothfus Laboratory features state-of-the-art experiments with applications in environment, product development, safety, and computerized data acquisition and control.
The objectives of the chemical engineering undergraduate curriculum have been developed with feedback from the faculty, alumni, current students, and our advisory board. The curriculum and programs are designed so that students of the Department of Chemical Engineering will have the education, skills, and abilities necessary to succeed. The objectives of the department are that graduates will obtain employment or attend graduate school, will advance in their chosen careers, and will be productive and fulfilled professionals throughout their careers.
The department currently includes 21 faculty members and several adjunct professors. The student body includes approximately 150 undergraduates, 90 Ph.D., and 60 master's students, with 25 postdoctoral research fellows and visitors. The department awards 40-50 BS degrees, 50 master's degrees, and 20 Ph.D. degrees each year. All faculty are engaged in research and teaching.
The program in chemical engineering within the Department of Chemical Engineering is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the commission's General Criteria and Program Criteria for Chemical, Biochemical, Biomolecular, and Similarly Named Engineering Programs.
Academic Integrity
The Department of Chemical Engineering is committed to the highest standard of integrity in education and research. The department adheres to the Carnegie Mellon University Policy on Academic Integrity. The Office of Community Standards & Integrity (OCSI) is a resource for students, staff, faculty, and family members looking for guidance.