About ChE

Located in the heart of the nation’s capital, the Department of Chemical Engineering at Howard University was established in 1969.

We offer the Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering (BSChE) and Master of Science in Chemical Engineering (MSChE) degree programs. The BSChE degree program provides students with a strong foundation, preparing program graduates for entry into all areas of chemical engineering practice or for the pursuit of advanced degrees in chemical engineering and other disciplines.

Chemical engineering is a rigorous study of the transformation of materials and energy from one form to another in manufacturing practical products. To achieve this objective, chemical engineers need a strong foundation in mathematics and science, particularly chemistry. Chemical engineers are involved in the manufacturing of products that we use regularly, such as consumer products (toothpaste, soap, shampoo, cosmetics, plastics, etc.), petrochemicals (gasoline, lubricants), and chemicals (fertilizers, cleaning solutions, etc.).

Chemical engineers are generally regarded as versatile problem-solvers; chemical engineering is also referred to as universal engineering.

Working in consultation with other engineers and scientists, chemical engineers define problems, determine objectives, and plan and conduct research to design, develop, digitize and control the processes. Chemical engineers are also essential to industries such as pharmaceutical, pulp and paper, healthcare, food processing, environmental, electronic and advanced materials. With a background in chemical engineering, one can also specialize in other professional fields such as medicine, business, finance and law.

Some specific examples of how chemical engineers contribute to the advancement of society include the development of new affordable drugs; the development of improved fertilizers to support sustainable farming practices; the development of renewable energy sources; the creation of safer and more efficient methods of refining petroleum products to produce energy; and new developments in pollution control and environmental remediation.

Please visit the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) for more information on chemical engineers.