Program Description
The Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering offers the Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering. Chemical Engineering students select one of several emphasis areas (such as energy studies or environmental engineering), a concentration in Biomolecular Engineering (to prepare them for medical school or a career in biotechnology), or any approved minor.
Chemical engineering is based on chemistry, biology, physics, and mathematics. The curriculum at Clemson includes classroom and laboratory instruction and emphasizes broadly applicable fundamental principles and current technology to prepare graduates for professional practice and professional growth. The Educational Objective of the BS degree program is for graduates to have careers characterized by:
- success in chemical engineering practice, postgraduate education, or other areas making use of engineering skills, as defined by accomplishments and/or job satisfaction;
- demonstrated success in the design of chemical processes and/or identification, formulation, and solution of chemical engineering problems;
- ethical behavior in all endeavors;
- demonstrated effectiveness in teamwork, communication, and service to society through professional contributions;
- demonstrated technical and/or managerial leadership; and
- demonstrated commitment to lifelong learning.
Chemical engineers are involved in the research, manufacture, sales, and use of commodity and specialty chemicals, fuels, pharmaceuticals, electronic components, synthetic fibers and textiles, food and consumer goods, and many other products. They work on environmental pollution prevention and remediation and apply engineering science to solve medical and health-related problems.
Combined Bachelor of Science/Master of Science
Qualified students can reduce the time to earn a Master’s Degree by applying graduate credits to both the Bachelor’s and Master’s program requirements. Undergraduate Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering students who have earned a grade-point average of 3.4 or above and completed 90 credit hours can begin work toward a Master of Science in Chemical Engineering or a Master of Science in Environmental Engineering and Science by selecting approved graduate courses for their emphasis area. Details are available in the ChBE Undergraduate Handbook, which can be found at http://www.clemson.edu/cecas/departments/chbe/.