Build on Your STEM Foundation
The UF Master of Engineering (M.E.) in Chemical Engineering builds on a strong foundation in chemistry, biochemistry, physics, mathematics, environmental science, and related STEM disciplines. The program provides the engineering knowledge, practical laboratory experience, and problem-solving skills needed to apply scientific knowledge to products, manufacturing processes, and real-world technologies.
Designed as a professional, course-based master’s degree, the M.E. prepares students for technical engineering careers across biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, consumer products, energy, food processing, and other technology-driven industries.
Whether you are a recent graduate or an early-career professional, the M.E. provides a pathway to broaden your career opportunities through advanced engineering education.
Considering a Master of Science instead?
The M.S. in Chemical Engineering provides advanced study in chemical engineering fundamentals and specialized areas of the field, with thesis and non-thesis options and opportunities for research, internships, and advanced coursework.
A Personalized Pathway into Chemical Engineering
You do not need an undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering to pursue the M.E.
Rather than requiring students to complete a second bachelor’s degree, the program builds on each student’s previous STEM education.
In consultation with a faculty advisor, students complete foundational chemical engineering coursework that complements their undergraduate preparation. This coursework provides the engineering framework needed for graduate-level study while allowing students to focus on advanced technical and professional skills.
Depending on your academic background, foundational coursework may include:
- Material and energy balances
- Transport phenomena
- Thermodynamics
- Fluid mechanics
- Heat and mass transfer
- Process control
- Separation processes
This individualized approach allows students from diverse STEM disciplines to transition into graduate chemical engineering education while building the skills needed for engineering and technology careers.
Learn Engineering by Doing Engineering
The M.E. curriculum emphasizes practical engineering education through advanced coursework and hands-on learning.
Students develop technical and professional skills in areas such as:
- Biotechnology and bioprocess engineering
- Chemical engineering laboratory methods
- Process simulation using Aspen Plus® and Aspen HYSYS®
- Data analysis, modeling, machine learning, and artificial intelligence
- Process design and optimization
- Separations and purification technologies
- Semiconductor and cleanroom concepts
- Leadership, engineering management, and entrepreneurship
Students may also gain practical experience through research or industrial internships.
Degree Requirements
The M.E. degree requires a minimum of 30 credits of graduate coursework and can typically be completed in approximately two years, depending on the student’s academic preparation and degree plan.
Students complete foundational undergraduate Chemical Engineering coursework based on their previous education, followed by graduate-level coursework in Chemical Engineering. The degree also includes a final examination consisting of a thesis or report.
Prepare for Technical Engineering Careers
The M.E. prepares graduates for engineering careers across a wide range of industries, including:
- Biotechnology and biopharmaceuticals
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing
- Advanced manufacturing
- Food and agricultural processing
- Consumer products
- Semiconductors
- Energy and sustainability
- Specialty chemicals and materials
Career paths may include:
- Process Engineer
- Manufacturing Engineer
- Bioprocess Engineer
- Process Development Engineer
- Validation Engineer
- Quality Engineer
- Production Engineer
- Operations Engineer
Admissions
How to Apply
Application materials include:
- Statement of purpose
- Three letters of recommendation
- Resume or curriculum vitae
- Official transcripts
- Additional materials required by the University of Florida Graduate School
For application instructions, deadlines, and to apply, visit the UF Graduate Admissions site.
Graduate Academic Advisors
Have questions about the M.E. program, admissions, degree requirements, or your academic pathway? Our graduate academic advisors are available to help.

Gabrielle Donalson
Graduate Academic Advisor
Phone: (352) 294-2891
Email: grad@che.ufl.edu

Shirley Kelly
Graduate Academic Advisor
Phone: (352) 392-4753
Email: grad@che.ufl.edu

Sumant Patankar, Ph.D.
Master’s Program Coordinator
Phone: (352) 392-0862
Email: grad@che.ufl.edu