Pennsylvania State University Park Campus

Chemical engineers are employed in pharmaceutical and biotechnical companies, semiconductor manufacturing, start-up companies converting the latest laboratory discoveries to large-scale commercial production. Chemical engineers develop new ways to manufacture medicines and plastics; develop control systems that enable the safe production of products from semiconductors to household soap; design chemical and petroleum plants; research the effects of artificial organs on blood flow; and develop the equipment and processes necessary for advances in biotechnology. Chemical engineering emphasizes the practical application of chemistry for the development of new products and processes. This major provides students with fundamental skills in problem solving, analysis, and design, along with hands-on experience in practical applications. Students have numerous opportunities to pursue specialized areas, including formal options in Bioprocess and Biomolecular Engineering, Energy and Fuels, and Polymer Engineering.