Undergraduate Programs

Chemical Engineering and Biomolecular Engineering

Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering Fundamentals

Chemical engineering requires a broad knowledge of science to solve problems involving the production or use of chemicals, improving the environment and making energy conversion more efficient.

  • Core curriculum includes mathematics, science and chemical engineering fundamentals.
  • Focus on practical aspects of engineering, including:
    • how to design and cost manufacturing plants
    • analyze and interpret experimental and production data
    • how chemical processing affects people and the environment
  • Choose a standard bachelor of science degree or a specialization in biotechnology or polymer engineering.

Our Faculty

  • are innovative and interactive
  • use multimedia technology to enhance classroom learning
  • are frequently recognized for their excellence in research and teaching scholarship 

Akron Advantage

Hands-on Research

Experience chemical and biomolecular engineering firsthand through our research facilities:

  • six state-of-the-art research laboratories
  • computer lab
  • applied colloid and surface science lab
  • catalysis research lab
  • multiphase and solids processing lab
  • supercritical fluid lab

The work in these labs includes research into:

  • biocompatible polymeric materials
  • biological cellular and enzymatic processes
  • nanocomposite materials
  • chemical vapor deposition
  • computational molecular science
  • micro-scale separations
  • advanced process control
  • green chemistry
  • novel catalytic reactions

Real World Experience

Gain important practical professional experience through the optional cooperative education program in the engineering field of your choice. Through co-op, you’ll alternate semesters of work and school following your
sophomore year. As an added benefit, you’ll earn a competitive salary.

Recent placements include: 

  • Wright Patterson Air Force Base
  • The Cleveland Clinic
  • Ashland Chemical
  • Bridgestone Firestone
  • DuPont Dow Elastomers
  • First Energy/Perry Nuclear
  • GoJo Industries
  • Chardon Rubber Company

Chemical Engineering Student Organizations

Interact with other engineering students and professionals in the field through organizations such as:

  • Tau Beta Pi (engineering honorary)
  • Women in Engineering
  • National Society of Black Engineers
  • American Institute of Chemical Engineers
  • International Society of Pharmaceutical Engineers 

Sample Curriculum

Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemical Engineering with Co-op Option

First Year    Fourth Year   
Physical Education   Engineering Co-Op II (fall semester)   
English Composition I, II   Humanities 
Chemistry I, II   Chemical Reaction  
Chemistry Lab
Fluid/Thermal Operations  
Calculus I, II
Material Science  
Tools For Chemical Engineering   Chemical Engineering Lab  
Oral Communications   Engineering Co-Op III (summer)   
Qualitative Analysis   2
Total  14 
Chemical Eng. Computations      
Project Management & Teamwork   Fifth Year   
Total
33
Project Management & Teamwork  
    Humanities In Western Tradition I
Second Year
  Chemical Engineering elective  
Project Management & Teamwork   1
Process Analysis And Control  
Organic Chemistry I, II, Lab   Design electives  
Calculus III   Process Design I, II  
Elementary Classical Physics I, II   Humanities elective  
Material and Energy Balance   Social Science  
Intro to Ordinary Diff. Equations   Basic Electrical engineering  
Equilibrium Thermodynamics   Total
30 
Statics     
Engineering Co-Op (optional)       
Total
35     
       
Third Year       
Project Management & Teamwork   1
   
Physical Chemistry      
Math Elective      
Intro to Economic Analysis      
Mass Transfer Operations      
Transport Phenomena      
Process Economics      
Engineering Co-Op I (spring semester)       
Area Studies   2    
Physical Chemistry II      
World Civilizations      
Total  25     

 

Career Opportunities

Degrees and Preparation

A degree in chemical and biomolecular engineering paves the way to research and development careers in such areas as: 

  • Chemical manufacturers
  • manufacturers that produce electronics, photographic equipment, clothing, pulp and paper
  • health care
  • biotechnology
  • business services industry

Career Outlook 

Opportunities continue to grow in the areas of research and development as demands for more efficient means of production are met. Among manufacturing industries, the best opportunities are in specialty chemicals, plastics materials, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and electronics.

Center for Career Management

Creates links among students, alumni and local professionals. You will have access to:

  • Career Resource Library
  • co-op/internships through Career Advantage Network
  • computer stations for resume writing and employment research
  • UA Career Fairs

 

The University of Akron

302 Buchtel Common. Akron, OH 44325
Phone: 330-972-7111
Contact us
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