Undergraduate program

Build the skills to solve complex, real-world problems at scale

Chemical Engineering at the University of Florida prepares students to tackle challenges in energy, materials, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, sustainability, and beyond. Our program emphasizes strong scientific foundations, engineering design, hands-on learning, and professional preparation, equipping graduates for diverse and impactful careers.

Want to learn more?

On this page:

• Why Chemical Engineering at UF
• Curriculum Overview
• Experiential Learning & Research
• Facilities & Learning Environment
• Student Support & Community
• Admissions & Next Steps

Why Study Chemical Engineering at UF?

Chemical engineers are trained to work across scales, from molecular-level materials design to industrial-scale processes. At UF, you’ll gain the depth and flexibility needed to thrive in industries that demand strong analytical thinking, creativity, and leadership.

UF Chemical Engineering students benefit from:

• Broad preparation for careers across energy, materials, biotech, pharmaceuticals, and sustainability
• Strong emphasis on problem-solving, systems thinking, and design
• Opportunities to explore interests from the molecular scale to industrial-scale systems
• Active student community and leadership development through student organizations and peer advising (e.g., AIChE, Chem-E Car, Chem-E Cube, ChEPAs)

Curriculum Overview

The undergraduate chemical engineering program is an 8-semester, 128-credit degree designed to build a strong foundation while allowing flexibility for electives, research, and experiential learning.

Core areas of study include:

• Chemistry, physics, calculus, differential equations, and computing
• Material and energy balances
• Thermodynamics
• Transport phenomena
• Chemical reaction engineering
• Process control and safety
• Senior capstone design

Students complete laboratory courses and team-based projects that emphasize hands-on learning and real-world applications.

Experiential Learning & Research

Learning extends well beyond the classroom. Students are encouraged to gain practical experience throughout their undergraduate years.

Opportunities include:

• Undergraduate research with faculty mentors
• Internships and co-op experiences with industry partners
• Participation in student-led design teams and competitions
• Senior Design projects addressing real engineering challenges

Prepare for careers in top sectors, including energy, chemicals, semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, and consumer products — with many students securing internships and research experiences before graduation.

Facilities & Learning Environment

Students learn and collaborate in modern, purpose-built spaces designed to support engineering education.

• $44 million invested in the Chemical Engineering building and student spaces
• Over 2,000 sq. ft. of student-centered collaboration space
• $500,000 invested in upgraded teaching laboratories
• Dedicated undergraduate student center supported by alumni

Student Support & Community

Chemical Engineering students are part of a close-knit and active community.

Support and involvement opportunities include:

• American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) student chapter
• Chem-E Car and Chem-E Cube competition teams
• Peer Advising (ChEPAs) program
• Annual Chemical Engineering Career Fair
• Industry mentorship and networking opportunities

Value & Program Flexibility

The UF Chemical Engineering program offers excellent value and flexibility.

• Competitive tuition at a top public university
• Flexible course scheduling
• Combined BS/MS option that allows students to earn a master’s degree in less time

Advising & Academic Support

Academic advisors work closely with students to help them plan coursework, explore career options, and stay on track for graduation.

Visit Undergraduate Advising to view FAQs or schedule an appointment.

Admissions & Next Steps

Freshman Admission Deadline: November 15
Students apply to the University of Florida and select Chemical Engineering after admission.

NOTE: ChE does not make admissions decisions for freshmen. All freshman applicants must apply through UF Admissions and meet all deadlines and requirements. You must be admitted to the University of Florida, after which you may declare your ChE major.

Apply to UF Admissions

• Submit your SAT/ACT scores
• Complete the online application, including the $30 fee
• Complete the FAFSA (optional)
• International students: send TOEFL or IELTS scores

Interested in transferring from another institution?

Already Accepted?

If you’ve been admitted to UF and are planning to major in Chemical Engineering, visit our accepted students page for next steps, orientation details, and tips for getting started.