University of Pittsburgh

Program Information

Degree Offered

M.S.- Chemical Engineering; M.S.- Petroleum Engineering;, Ph.D. - Chemical Engineering

Program Description:

The Chemical and Petroleum Engineering Department awards Doctor of Philosophy and Master of Science degrees. The objective of all programs is to develop the ability of the chemical or petroleum engineer to carry out original research at advance levels.

Students wishing to pursue the PhD degree should have an outstanding academic background and a desire and ability to carry out original research. PhD students here are given independence and responsibility. They are not only encouraged but are expected to develop research ideas, which they propose and defend. They work closely with their research advisers and often participate in a research group attacking relevant engineering problems.

Students are admitted to candidacy for the PhD after successfully completing the oral preliminary examination (taken at the end of the first year of graduate study), and the PhD comprehensive examination and proposal conference. The latter is also an oral examination covering chemical engineering at the PhD level and is based upon a written dissertation proposal.

To supplement their research, students take advanced courses in areas related to their research work. Candidates for the PhD achieve a high level of proficiency through this advanced coursework and individual study in their research area and related areas.

PhD students here are also encouraged to publish and to present their work. Many students are supported on trips to national meetings to present their papers. For example, last year our students presented papers at meetings of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, the American Chemical Society, the North American Catalysis Society, and the American Heart Association.

Students having excellent undergraduate credentials in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or Physics may be admitted directly into the PhD program.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Financial Aid Offered: No

Format: Campus

Classification: Doctoral/Research Universities - Extensive

Institution Sector: Public

Locale: Large City

Size & Settings: 20,000 and above