Best Chemical Engineering Schools (2024 Rankings)

For aspiring chemical engineering students, we've put together a list of the top U.S. chemical engineering schools. Just so you know, we haven't ranked them because each school is awesome in its own way.

These schools offer amazing chemical engineering programs, internships, and great connections worldwide. They're involved in top-notch research, work with some of the best in the industry, and their teachers are experts in their fields.

If you're looking to make big changes in areas like renewable energy or new materials, these chemical engineering schools could be your ticket. Ready to see which schools are on the list? Let's check them out!

10 best chemical engineering programs

Here's our list of the top 10 undergraduate chemical engineering programs. These institutions stand out for their exceptional faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong focus on both theoretical and practical learning.

Northwestern University (Evanston, Illinois)

At Northwestern University, located near Chicago, the Chemical Engineering bachelor's degree program stands out for its rigorous methodology and interdisciplinary curriculum. 

With a focus on areas like nanotechnology and sustainable energy, the program is supported by advanced laboratories and emphasizes a balance between theory and practical application. Known for its competitive acceptance rate, the university offers a robust first-year experience for undergraduates.

Additionally, the university's strategic partnerships with leading companies and research institutions enhance the learning experience and career prospects for its chemical engineering students.

California Institute of Technology (Pasadena, California)

The California Institute of Technology (Caltech), located in Pasadena, is renowned for its Chemical Engineering bachelor's degree program, which emphasizes a rigorous, research-oriented approach. 

Caltech's program stands out for its cutting-edge research in areas like biochemical engineering and environmental engineering. The small enrollment size ensures personalized attention from its faculty of leading experts. 

Additionally, Caltech's strong connections to industries and research institutions in America, combined with a competitive acceptance rate and generous financial aid offerings, make it a top choice for students pursuing chemical engineering.

Georgia Institute of Technology (Atlanta, Georgia)

Georgia Tech, located in the heart of Atlanta, is celebrated for its Chemical Engineering bachelor's degree program that blends rigorous academic training with hands-on research opportunities. 

Georgia Tech's range of degree programs is notable for its focus on renewable energy, biotechnology, and materials science, offering students access to top-tier laboratory facilities and industry collaborations.

Additionally, its proximity to major industrial and research hubs enriches the practical learning and networking opportunities for chemical engineering students.

Texas A&M University (College Station, Texas)

Texas A&M University, located in College Station, is highly regarded for its Chemical Engineering bachelor's degree program that integrates advanced scientific principles with practical engineering skills. 

The program excels in areas like petrochemicals, environmental solutions, and process engineering, facilitated by cutting-edge research facilities and a strong focus on industry-relevant training. A large alumni network and close ties to significant industrial partners gives students unique internship and career opportunities. 

The university offers a wide range of degree programs that engage students in global engineering challenges.

University of Michigan at Ann Arbor (Ann Arbor, Michigan)

Within chemical engineering, the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor is particularly renowned for its innovative approach in sustainable chemical processes and materials science. 

U-M's chemical engineering program, part of a comprehensive suite of engineering and scientific disciplines, is distinguished by its strong emphasis on both theoretical fundamentals and real-world applications. Unique to U-M's program is its collaborative, interdisciplinary environment. 

Additionally, its location in the vibrant city of Ann Arbor provides numerous opportunities for students to engage with the local scientific community and industries.

Purdue University (West Lafayette, Indiana)

At Purdue University, the Davidson School of Chemical Engineering stands out for its exceptional strength in process systems engineering and catalysis, fields in which the university has made significant research contributions. 

Purdue's curriculum has a unique integration of advanced computational methods and hands-on lab work, offering students a well-rounded understanding of modern chemical engineering practices. The program also boasts specialized research initiatives in areas like renewable energy and environmental engineering. 

Purdue's collaborative culture extends beyond the classroom, with numerous interdisciplinary projects and partnerships that provide students with a rich, real-world learning experience.

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Champaign, Illinois)

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is distinguished in the field of chemical engineering for its strong emphasis on molecular and biomolecular engineering. 

This unique focus allows students to pursue cutting-edge research and development in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals, areas where the university has established a notable reputation. The program is supported by exceptional faculty and state-of-the-art research facilities. 

Additionally, UIUC's chemical engineering flexible curriculum is enhanced by the university's extensive network of alumni and industry connections.

University of Wisconsin Madison (Madison, Wisconsin)

The University of Wisconsin Madison's Chemical Engineering program is renowned for its leadership in areas like energy systems and polymer science, reflecting the university's long-standing tradition of innovation in these fields. 

Distinguished by its collaborative research approach, the program encourages students to engage in interdisciplinary projects, including environmental engineering and sustainable technology. 

UW Madison is also known for its strong industry connections, ample opportunities for internships, and cooperative education experiences. The campus's vibrant academic community in Madison, coupled with a wide array of extracurricular and professional development activities, offers a holistic educational experience for aspiring chemical engineers.

The University of Texas at Austin (Austin, Texas)

The University of Texas at Austin's Chemical Engineering program is renowned for its research and innovation in energy and petrochemical engineering. 

The McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering has a combination of rigorous academics, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a strong emphasis on sustainable engineering practices. The UT Austin specialized research centers give students unique insights into contemporary energy challenges. 

The vibrant city of Austin, known for its thriving tech scene and cultural richness, offers students a diverse and dynamic environment for both study and leisure.

University of Notre Dame (Notre Dame, Indiana)

The University of Notre Dame's Chemical Engineering program is recognized for its exceptional balance between fundamental science and engineering application, with a notable emphasis on ethical and sustainable engineering practices. 

The program excels in areas such as biomolecular engineering and nanotechnology, supported by a strong commitment to research and innovation. Unique to Notre Dame is the integration of a liberal arts perspective within the engineering curriculum, fostering a well-rounded educational experience. 

The university's picturesque campus and close-knit community provide a supportive and enriching environment for students pursuing their chemical engineering degrees.

Other schools to consider for a chemical engineering degree

• Columbia University (New York, New York): Columbia stands out for its strong focus on chemical engineering fundamentals and advanced research in sustainable energy and materials.
• Cornell University (Ithaca, New York): Cornell's program excels in integrating chemical engineering principles with biological applications, emphasizing research in biomolecular engineering.
• University of Florida (Gainesville, Florida): Known for its cutting-edge research in chemical process engineering and materials science, this program offers a diverse range of research opportunities.
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, Massachusetts): MIT is globally recognized for its innovative research in chemical engineering, particularly in nanotechnology and bioengineering.
• Carnegie Mellon University (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania): Carnegie Mellon specializes in computational modeling and process systems engineering, offering a unique approach to chemical engineering education.
• Stanford University (Stanford, California): Stanford's program is renowned for its research in energy and environmental engineering and strong emphasis on sustainability.
• Princeton University (Princeton, New Jersey): Princeton offers a highly interdisciplinary approach to chemical engineering, blending core engineering principles with emerging technologies.
• University of California, Berkeley (Berkeley, California): UC Berkeley is distinguished for its research in chemical and biomolecular engineering, particularly in areas like catalysis and renewable energy.
• University of Delaware (Newark, Delaware): Known for its expertise in materials science and catalysis, the University of Delaware offers a program integrated with industry needs.
• University of Minnesota - Twin Cities (Minneapolis, Minnesota): This program is notable for its strong focus on polymer science and engineering, with extensive research facilities.
• University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania): UPenn's program excels in combining chemical engineering with nanotechnology and pharmacological applications.
• Vanderbilt University (Nashville, Tennessee): Vanderbilt's chemical engineering program is recognized for its emphasis on molecular engineering and interdisciplinary research opportunities.

Compare the best colleges for chemical engineering on College Rover

As you embark on the next chapter of your academic journey, choosing the right college for your chemical engineering degree is crucial. College Rover is your go-to resource for comparing the top schools in this dynamic field. 

Whether you're a high school student weighing your options, an out-of-state applicant curious about different programs, or a prospective grad student seeking advanced opportunities, College Rover has the tools you need.

You'll find information tailored to your needs, such as the average ACT scores for admitted students, the atmosphere of the campus community, or the support available for out-of-state and international students.

Start exploring today to find the perfect chemical engineering program that aligns with your academic goals and career aspirations. 

College Rover gets the majority of its data directly from the U.S. Department of Education (DOE). The DOE publishing schedule "lags" the most current data which some colleges post on their official websites. This may cause there to be a difference in the data you see on College Rover and an individual college website. College Rover's website is updated as the DOE data becomes available and is configured for the College Rover website.