WashU Chemical Engineering

Hey guys, I'm considering applying to WashU for chemical engineering, but I'd like to know a bit more about the program. How's the curriculum, faculty, and research opportunities? Any insight would be super helpful!

Hey there! WashU's chemical engineering program is part of the McKelvey School of Engineering. The curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation in the core chemical engineering subjects, such as fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and transport phenomena, in addition to hands-on experience and broader problem-solving skills. Students typically start with general engineering courses in their first year, then transition into more specialized chemical engineering classes during their following years.

The faculty members at WashU are known for being approachable and invested in their students' success. They are active researchers with expertise in various areas of chemical engineering, such as nanotechnology, biomolecular engineering, and energy systems. You'll have the opportunity to learn from experts who are at the forefront of their fields.

Research opportunities abound at WashU, and undergraduate students are highly encouraged to get involved in research projects. Many chemical engineering students work with faculty members on cutting-edge projects in their labs or join interdisciplinary research groups on campus. WashU is particularly strong in research areas like energy, materials science, and biotechnology. Research positions can be paid or for academic credit, and they provide especially valuable experiences for those who are interested in pursuing graduate studies or careers in research.

You can also take advantage of resources like the Center for Career Engagement, which helps students find internships, co-op positions, and full-time job placements in the chemical engineering field. This support can help you build a strong professional network and gain practical experience in your chosen field while still in school.

Overall, WashU's chemical engineering program provides a robust educational experience for students passionate about the field. You'll have access to a rigorous curriculum, dedicated faculty members, and meaningful research and internship opportunities to support your academic and career goals.

If you end up applying to WashU and want tips on how to maximize your chances of acceptance, check out this blog post from WashU, which breaks down how to tackle their school-specific supplemental essay prompts: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-washu-essays/. After all, WashU is quite a selective school, and the essays in particular are often just the thing that distinguishes one talented applicant from another.

Alternatively, you could participate in an engineering summer program. CollegeVine's blog contains a list of reputable ones for high schoolers: https://blog.collegevine.com/high-school-engineering-summer-programs/. Many of them will allow you to focus on chemical engineering in particular, and admissions officers love to see that you're taking initiative and pursuing your interests outside of the classroom!

Good luck with your college search!